11/14/2014
My Maroon Bells Photo.
One of the most photographed landscapes in the country, and the quintessential Colorado shot, every local photographer has a shot of the Maroon Bells. Three wind carved peaks framed by Aspen lined hills in full color, and the beautiful Maroon Lake, this is one of the most picture-esque shots you'll find, and almost an impossible photograph to mess up.
The best compositions of these peaks will come with a full range of color in the trees lining the river, the wind-carved lines in the peaks accented with snow bringing out the unique formations, and a still lake in front to provide a nice sharp reflection. I was a week too late for full color of the Aspens (the reds and oranges had just passed about a week earlier) and a week too early for the first snowfall (as I came to find out). Goes to show you again that photography is all about luck, and being in the right place at the right time.
Arriving around 4 am that morning, a solid 2+ hrs before sunrise, to no surprise I was easily about the 30th person there. I would be lying to you If I told you this wasn't expected. Colorado is a state full of photographers and tourists.
Its never been an issue though, and as cliche as it sounds, the hours out in the mountains before sunrise are quickly becoming one of my favorite things. The only light coming from the Stars and the Moon and a perfect quiet, nothing is cooler than a nice sack breakfast and a comfy spot as you wait for the sun to come up.
If you all get a chance I have attached an example of these peaks by another Denver photographer, d'Ardenne Photography. His shot, taken not even a week later, shows the peaks lined after the first Aspen snowfall of the year. The contrast and detail the snow brings out in the peaks is amazing is awesome. (On a side note, I've been following this local photographer for awhile now, and all his work is great. If you enjoy landscape photography at all please check his work out. His posts are a great follow.)
As always feedback and criticism are always welcome, and much appreciated.
These shots, and all my work seen here and on www.RX-Photo.com are available for sale. Contact me through Facebook or at [email protected].
- David