My Sunrise, Ansel's Moonrise, and Localized Weather

I first heard of the concept of localized weather when visiting Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. I stood in the valley sun gazing at the lofty cloud-shrouded peak.

Later, a farmer explained to me how different areas of the same field can frost at different times.

River Sunrise

Living and working along the Connecticut River in Massachusetts, this weather effect is pronounced.

Half a mile away from the river the sunrise can be clear, lacking mystery and atmosphere.

I created this effect by telling my camera that I was photographing in warm, indoor, incandescent lighting conditions. This image reminds me of Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico by Ansel Adams. I think I placed my sun in the frame where he put his moon.

Click here for the account of how Mr. Adams nearly missed his shot since he could not find his light meter!

As I photographed, a woman pulled up in her car. We exchanged awed greetings of the beautiful scene. She caught it on her cell phone camera.

"That made my day," I remarked to her as she headed off.

© 2009 John Nordell

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