North Window framing Turret Arch - Arches National Park, Grand County, Utah
Yesterday morning I had my first experience shooting an iconic location in Arches National Park. The popular North Window framing Turret Arch shot. The shooting surface is on a small ledge and can possibly fit 5-6 photographers. On a busy weekend morning this is prime real estate and I've heard some stories about how much of a nightmare it can become. My curiosity peaked and I wanted to see for myself what it's like shooting elbow to elbow while comp stomping the masses.
I arrived first and an hour later the photographer train came chugging through. The disappoint in their red faces and winded voices when they come upon me was sweet victory! Everyone was cautiously polite and over prepped for their moment in replicated post card glory. Come on sun, hurry up and warm this damn rock so I can beat the path back to the parking lot! Finally the moment arrived; the North Window started to glow and Turret Arch was playing in it's shadow. I fired off a few shots and bid my fellow lemmings a good morning.
It's hard not to be a little sarcastic when describing this experience. I find more joy in the journey and for me that is solitude. Witnessing this moment was beautiful and yet the circumstances compromised the occasion. Alas, there I was, the hypocrite corralled on the ledge taking part in my own gripe.
North Window framing Turret Arch - Arches National Park, Grand County, Utah
Yesterday morning I had my first experience shooting an iconic location in Arches National Park. The popular North Window framing Turret Arch shot. The shooting surface is on a small ledge and can possibly fit 5-6 photographers. On a busy weekend morning this is prime real estate and I've heard some stories about how much of a nightmare it can become. My curiosity peaked and I wanted to see for myself what it's like shooting elbow to elbow while comp stomping the masses.
I arrived first and an hour later the photographer train came chugging through. The disappoint in their red faces and winded voices when they come upon me was sweet victory! Everyone was cautiously polite and over prepped for their moment in replicated post card glory. Come on sun, hurry up and warm this damn rock so I can beat the path back to the parking lot! Finally the moment arrived; the North Window started to glow and Turret Arch was playing in it's shadow. I fired off a few shots and bid my fellow lemmings a good morning.
It's hard not to be a little sarcastic when describing this experience. I find more joy in the journey and for me that is solitude. Witnessing this moment was beautiful and yet the circumstances compromised the occasion. Alas, there I was, the hypocrite corralled on the ledge taking part in my own gripe.