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Sunrise
The dunes are one of the hardest places to photograph, especially when you hike out before sunrise in the dark. For one, you have no idea where you're going, even with the headlamp on the brightest setting you're only illuminating only a few feet on front of you. You don't start seeing till there is some glow in the sky and you realize the place you want to shoot from is 100 yards away...which is a mile in dune walking.
Here are some tips for the next dune walk:
1. Carry water, more than you think you need.
2. Carry some type of snack...trust me...the walk back is longer and more tiring.
3. If possible, scope out the area and dune you want to be at the day before. Time how long it takes to get there.
4. Don't change lenses if you don't have to. if you really have to, shield it from the wind by using your jacket/large trash bag.
5. Don't take risks that you can't handle.
That dual glow is really nice, Sunny.. Fine imaging.
I've found that I don't need to go that early when it's still dark. When I did, I still had to wait for the good light. I start when it is just getting light. May depend on how far you are hiking.
Amazing photo. Usually, footsets would take away from the image but here they follow a graceful curve and add interest and a dynamic element to the image. I love it!
Great tips for the sand dunes. It's similar to walking on some ocean beachs out here where distances can be much longer and difficult than they look. Having one's feet sink into deep sand with every step is incredibly energy intensive.
