Mesa Arch & The Washer Woman

When the first light of the day hits the underside of an arch in Canyon Lands or Arches National Parks they glow a beautiful shades of crimson much like those found in slot canyons. A magnificent example is Mesa Arch located in Canyon Lands, Utah. However, as with many of the more popular photography spots, if you want to get a good shot you have to be there early. We were staying in Moab and it was about an hour’s travel time from the motel to getting on site at the arch. But arriving at or near sunrise would not be sufficient, we had to be there at least two hours before sunrise in other to have assurance of a front row seat.

This is one of the parts shooting sunrises that I enjoy tremendously. Getting up around 3 am, traveling to the site under the stars, walking in to the location in the dark and setting up without being able to see the whole scene that is going to unfold. On this morning we had a treat. We were the first ones there so we could pick our spots. But more than that, there was a moon over the arch! So we started the day by taking night shots. By setting the camera for a long exposure we were able to get in some light painting by spraying the arch with a flashlight, just enough but not too much. With a bit of experimentation we captured some early morning images with just the beginning of color on the far horizon under the arch.

As the sun made it’s appearance so did a hoard of photographers, but we were firmly ensconced in our places, snapping away as the light went through its morning routine. I was very happy with the morning and surprised and pleased with the star burst I captured in this image.

In the distance, under the arch, is a formation that should not be missed. It is called the Washer Woman. A shot I thought best in black and white.

After a shoot like this it is back to town, breakfast in a local cafe, work up images and experience some down time before heading out for the evening location to shoot some more of God's beautiful creations.

You might also be interested in viewing my post on the Costa Rican Tree Frog

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