Artist's Palette Area, Death Valley Nat'l Park, CA

Canon 5DMKII ~ f/16 ~ 153mm ~ 1/30 ~ iso100

We had spent the majority of the day exploring the park and returned to West Side Rd at sunset to photograph the salt flats located there.  The light wasn't great as there was a heavy cloud bank on the western horizon.  Most photographer's would most likely pack it in when they see the light isn't right.  I, to this day, decide to stay out past sunset no matter what the weather/conditions.  This particular day, that theory proved right.  A small opening in the clouds at sunset illuminated Artist's Palette in all it's glory and lasted less than a minutes time.  The hillside glows when minerals in the soil reflect the sun's rays.  This photo is a result where preparation met opportunity.

Photo tip: Be aware of atmospheric conditions and don't pack it in just because the conditions aren't perfect.  Be prepared for quickly changing conditions that could last for only seconds.

Good light,

Bill

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