I was in the Eastern Sierra Nevada several times over the course of two weeks this October, primarily to photograph aspen color. If you know any Sierra photographers you may have heard us complain about "too many perfect blue sky days." Long sequences of "perfect" weather are common here and, frankly, they can get a little boring, especially if you've experience more dramatic weather. Just give us some clouds, OK?!
During our second visit near the middle of the month the forecast called for an early season weather front touring strong winds, clouds, and a chance of a little snow. I was thrilled! In the end, there was no snow where we were (though it did snow further north), but we had an abundance of wind and clouds.
So we partially changed plans and on two mornings found locations with good views of the eastern escarpment of the range, where we could watch sunrise cloud drama unfold. These photographs come from those sessions.
Nice set ! I particularly like the composition (balance) and light in #3. The mountain look imposing.
I hear you about the cloudless days; spent many of those type of days in the Eastern Sierra too. Haven't been back in 2 years, inspired to return again soon.
Ken
KMSlandscape wrote:
Nice set ! I particularly like the composition (balance) and light in #3. The mountain look imposing.
I hear you about the cloudless days; spent many of those type of days in the Eastern Sierra too. Haven't been back in 2 years, inspired to return again soon.
Ken
Thanks, Ken.
#3 was actually the first photograph from this set that I shared (somewhere else) as an example of the conditions that morning. That arc of lighter clouds was special, and was only there for a moment.
I’m betting that people whose home mountain ranges are a lot wetter and grayer (Rockies? Pacific Northwest?) may get tired of sierra Nevada folks complaining about the good weather, but it really can be a challenge at some point. As a backpacker, I would usually hope for at least one day of “interesting” weather!
With our anniversary very late September, early October doesn't always find me in the Eastern Sierra. But these look like the timing worked for you! Very fine set.
