As we all know, it's always a treat when atmospheric conditions come together as we planned. This image in Rocky Mtn. NP epitomizes how pure luck plays a role as well! From weather reports, I knew weather conditions could be optimal for something special this particular morning. But, as usual in Rocky, weather at high altitudes is not always predictable. I showed up this particular morning a day after the Park opened from being closed due to the government shutdown. Without visitors for weeks, it seemed like a true wilderness, thus, I experienced this scene virtually alone. Unfortunately, every peak was socked in initially. However, for the briefest of moments, sunlight poked through, partially illuminating the mountain peaks. After that, everything that morning was shrouded in clouds. For that few minutes that morning, I won't soon forget.
Cheers
Paul.K wrote:
Great picture. Love the light that is just touching the peaks.
Out of curiosity, what do you look for in weather reports for optimal conditions?
Hey Paul, To best determine weather conditions that may be conducive to interesting clouds and/or light, I use a variety of options. First off, the National Weather Service has a wealth of info, but I primarily use their site to track storms coming in and leaving. During that time clouds in particular can be interesting. To compliment the NWS, I also use the Meteoblue weather site, specifically their Meteograms that depict not only the predicted presence clouds and density of clouds, but at what attitude. Oftentimes, those high clouds allow sunlight to light up the bottoms. And in also every situation I use Skyfire, an app that provides predictions on the chance of great cloud color for sunrise and sunset. Armed with those options, I feel relatively confident I know generally what atmospheric conditions may take place. Of course, the wildcard is if one is shooting at high elevations. Local mountain weather prediction is not an exact science from my humble perspective.
Cheers
