https://www.ralanstone.org/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/painterly/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/abstract-images/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/clouds/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/fog/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/mono/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/new-photography/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/palouse/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/montana/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/yellowstone-national-park/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/wyoming/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/washington/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/birds/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/idaho/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/california/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/lakes-and-rivers/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/grand-teton-national-park/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/coastal/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/glacier-national-park/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/mountains/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/trees/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/rodeo/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/silhouettes/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/crme-de-la-crme/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/arizona/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/oregon/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/postcards/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/torrey-pines-reserve/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/big-sur/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/fireworks/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/france/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/animals/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/water/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/italy/ https://www.ralanstone.org/gallery/spain/ https://www.ralanstone.org/page/about/ https://www.ralanstone.org/page/footer1/ https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/i-saw-a-vision/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1160509isawavision.jpg I Saw A Vision - May 2023 The Primatial Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, commonly known as the Toledo Cathedral, is a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture and is considered one of the greatest cathedrals in the country. As I was walking through the cathedral and marveling at the workmanship I noticed an area called a rose window.The carvings within the circle, known as tracery depict intricate designs, religious figures, and biblical scenes. The interpreted Latin inscription within the tracerysays "I saw a vision," signifies a spiritual or divine experience. I spent a long time trying to capture this image. In losing track of time I also lost track of my wife and the rest of the group I was with. I did not have my cell phone with me so I was completely lost. Luckily a kind Spanish police officer figured out where we were staying and reunited me with my wife. The things I do for a good shot. Toledo, Spain https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/salt-river/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_4154saltriver.jpg Salt River - September 2015 The Salt River originates in the Salt River range of the Rocky Mountains and it flows through an area known as Star Valley, Wyoming. Wandering through Star Valley the river ends up being a migratory bird paradise. The extreme temperatures in that area produce a lot of fog. On this September morning I felt as if I was painting with my camera. Star Valley, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/white-out/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050541whitreout.jpg White Out - February 2024 I was driving down the Gros Ventre Road in the Grand Teton National Park. It was early on a February morning and it had snowed the night before. Haze and fog covered the valley as I looked back toward historic Mormon Row. This area has a collection of homesteads originally established by Mormon settlers in the early 1900s. As I looked eastward on that morning, I saw the singular barn wedged in between tall leafless cottonwoods. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/farm-truck/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050780farmtruck.jpg Farm Truck - September 2018 Swan Valley Idaho sits in the meadows between Ross Peak and Baldy Mountain. Much of the farmland is watered from the Snake river. I saw several trees in the meadow that were begging to be photographed. With the farm vehicle the trees took on a different dimension. Swan Valley, Idaho https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/two-ice-fisherman/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050662twoicefisherman2.jpg Two Ice Fisherman - February 2024 The two ice fisherman you see in the image would carry their sled across the ice about 20 feet and then stop and rest. It must have taken them 30 minutes to travel 200 yards. I kept waiting for the special moment in which they were separated and I also had drama in the clouds behind them. Luckily, I found it. For the love of fishing. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/gold-rush/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050387goldrush2.jpg Gold Rush - January 2024 In the mid-19th century, Rocky Point became a significant location due to its proximity to the California gold rush. The rugged coastline served as a port for importing supplies and exporting gold during this time. It seems every time I shoot in this area I walk away with an image that has a completely different feel from previous images. I really like what the black and white does for the rugged sensation this image produces. Big Sur Coast, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/8-degrees-and-sunny/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050820eightdegreesandsunny2.jpg 8 Degrees and Sunny - February 2024 At 12,809 feet the Middle Teton peak of the Grand Teton range pushes its way through the morning fog and clouds. I was extremely lucky to be there right after a very large storm moved through the area. For photography, I really enjoy the winter months to capture some of the Tetons deeper feelings. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/quintessential-big-sur/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1040217quintessentialbigsur.jpg Quintessential Big Sur - November 2021 I have tried on many occasions to capture the stunning beauty of the Big Sur coast and have failed. On this morning as the warm air rises and meets the cooler ocean air it condenses into fog near the coast. When this happens the rugged cliffs and crevices along the Big Sur coast fill with fog and create a beautiful and mystical atmosphere. It never ceases to delight this photographer. Big Sur Coast, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/dinnertime/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0017dinnertime.jpg Dinnertime The abstract art feeling from my earlier days. The contrast and textures really creates the scene. Torrey Pines State Beach, California - March 2009 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/standing-on-the-edge/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0026standingontheedge.jpg Standing on the Edge = March 2009 This is one of my early images that I really like. It just makes so much sense and feels so good. Torrey Pines State Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/mighty-mites/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050772mightymite2.jpg Mighty Mites - February 2024 The large cottonwood trees shed their leaves before winter in order to conserve energy and water during the colder months. By dropping their leaves, cottonwood trees can reduce water loss and allocate their resources more efficiently, to survive the winter. This process produces a magical landscape when the colder weather in Jackson Hole, Wyoming moves across the high plains. As the fog moves in, it highlights these spectacular trees. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/fall-cut/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1180389fallcut.jpg Fall Cut - September 2023 In this black and white photograph, the landscape appears serene and captivating. The viewer's gaze is drawn towards the distant mountains, which stand tall and majestic against the sky. Wispy clouds lazily linger above the mountains, adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the scene. In the foreground, the fall harvest of hay in Ririe, Idaho takes center stage. The neatly cut hay creates a textured foreground, contrasting with the smooth silhouette of the mountains and the softness of the clouds. I love the natural beauty of the Idaho countryside. Ririe, Idaho https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/antelope-flats/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030823antelopeflats.jpg Antelope Flats - September 2023 Before sunrise I started wandering down Antelope Flats Road. After I had gone a couple of miles inland all I saw were low lying hills. Suddenly out of nowhere you see this one tree and the entry to some ranchers outfit. Just before the rising sun this beautiful glow silhouetted the only two existing structures in the area. Ririe, Idaho https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/russell-chatham-moment/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC1421russellchathampainting.jpg Russell Chatham Moment Russell Chatham was an American artist who spent a lot of his time painting in the Livingston, Montana area. He was known for his landscape paintings. A lot of his work is impressionistic, subtle and moody. I thought this image captured his style. Lake Hodges, California - April 2008 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/reflecting/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/13-Sep-2013_1781reflecting.jpg Reflecting - September 2013 Lake Hodges was created by the construction of the Hodges dam on the San Dieguito river in 1918. Migrating birds such as Canadian Geese, Mallards, and Northern Shovelers use the lake as a stopover and wintering site during their migrations. In this photo Cliff Swallows are dancing over the water on a foggy morning. I certainly felt lucky to be there at that moment. lake Hodges, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/buffalo-smoke/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0071buffalosmoke.jpg Buffalo Smoke In late September I was driving into Yellowstone National Park lamenting the complete lack of clouds. I stopped at Lewis Lake only to find the surrounding sky was devoid of clouds. I stood there for a while waiting for the sun to set and all of a sudden smoke from a nearby forest fire started to roll across Lewis Lake.As luck would have it you can see the outline of the buffalo in both the smoke and the reflection. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming - September 2009 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/chinese-brush-painting/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_1553chinesebrushpaintingC.jpg Chinese Brush Painting Chinese brush painting is the traditional art of painting on rice paper or silk with a natural animal hair brush and ink. I think this scene mimics that technique. Egrets typically inhabit both saltwater and freshwater marshes. On that morning fog covered much of the Lake Hodges reservoir near Escondido, California.I had packed up my gear and was heading back to my car feeling as if most of the good light was gone for that morning. I glanced back over at the lake one more time and noticed this scene developing. The shape of the trees, the fog, and, of course the egret combine to remind me of a Chinese brush painting. Lake Hodges, California - May 2017 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/nesting/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030046nesting.jpg Nesting The mystical ambience of the meadow is enhanced by a thick blanket of fog that delicately envelops the landscape. I felt like the tree to the left was simply nesting itself in this captivating scene. The soft diffuse light filters through the mist, creating a delicate interplay between light and shadow. Beyond the shrouded meadow and tree the fog dissipates enough to reveal hints of another grove of trees. Fog is a photographer's favorite friend. Garfield, Washington - June 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/toledo-cathedral/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L11607782catedralprimadasantamariadetoledo.jpg Toledo Cathedral The Primatial Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, commonly known as the Toledo Cathedral, is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city of Toledo, Spain.Construction of the Toledo Cathedral began in 1226, on the site of a former mosque. It took nearly three centuries to complete, with additional modifications made in the following centuries. The organ in the cathedral is known as the Organo Mayor and has attracted many internationally renowned organist to perform and record on this magnificent instrument. The light on the pipes allowed me to catch this moment. Toledo, Spain - May 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/climb-every-mountain-2/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1040395climbeverymountain3.jpg Climb Every Mountain It was the last morning of my fall trip to Jackson Hole Wyoming. It always seems like the last day yields some of the best images. It had just snowed and the morning light was pushing through the clouds surrounding the Grand Teton. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming - October 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/puff/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1180862puff2.jpg Puff String Lake owes it's existence to the Teton Fault. The name "String Lake" was given to it due to its slender elongated form. Most of the light had already left as I was walking away from String Lake that evening. I looked back across the quiet lake and saw this one cloud pushing itself towards the horizon. I turned around and set up my camera and tripod again and took this one shot. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming - October 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/glacial-erratics/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030992glacialerratics.jpg Glacial Erratics Glacial erratics can be found in various shapes throughout the Madison River in Yellowstone National Park. Geologist believe these boulders were deposited by glaicers during the last Ice Age. I was lucky enough to be there on a Fall day with fog surrounding lodgepole pine that seem to be growing out of the boulders. These trees are often referred to as "rock trees "but they're actually not growing out of the boulder but the roots have found crevices or cracks in the boulders to anchor into. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming - July 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/engulfed-2/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_2384engulfedC.jpg Engulfed Normally in the middle of the afternoon the light is not really conducive to exciting dramatic photographs. This afternoon was different. I was approaching Deer Lodge Montana and talking with a friend of mine on the phone when I noticed a storm beginning to roll a crossed the valley. I immediately hung up the phone and started heading in the direction of the storm. Luckily I was on a hill and had enough time to pull out my tripod and set up the shot. I was also lucky enough to have a small ranch at the base of the storm. Deer Lodge, Montana - July 2015 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/three-sisters/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1020288threesisters2.jpg Three Sisters Fog around the Grand Teton peaks can sometimes be caused by a meteorological phenomenon known as temperature inversion. Sometimes wind patterns can trap moist air near the peaks. I had return to the same spot for five mornings, and nothing very exciting was happening until this last morning. Because I have no patience, I play games with myself such a saying, I'm going to spend 15 minutes here waiting for the light to change before I move. This way my normal impatience is muffled by my little game, and I stay around longer than I normally would. This day it paid off. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming - October 2021 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/turmoil/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030944turmoil.jpg Turmoil - November 2023 Brandt's cormorants are a sea bird only found in North America. The cormorants rely upon food sources produced by the upwelling of the California currents.As large swells pound the cliffs along Garrapata Beach organized chaos reigns. The cormorants cling to the rocks looking for food. The fog, birds, and surf all combine to make this a special image. It's easy to feel powerless in such a moment. Big Sur Coast, California - November 2021 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/poetry/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030895poetry.jpg Poetry - July 2023 This area of Swan Valley Idaho is very near the Snake River. When cool air meets the moist air from the river, it can result in the formation of fog.This image seems to flow, just as would a line of poetry.The small puffy clouds that extend above the fog bank make this image. Swan Valley, Idaho https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/climb-every-mountain/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1040395climbeverymountain2.jpg Climb Every Mountain It was the last morning of my fall trip to Jackson Hole,Wyoming. It always seems like the last day yields some of the best images. It had just snowed and the morning light was pushing through the clouds surrounding the Grand Teton. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming - October 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/tree-fog/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030884treefog4.jpg Tree Fog - July 2023 This area of Swan Valley Idaho is very near the Snake River. When cool air meets the moist air from the river, it can result in the formation of fog. The large grove of cottonwood trees stands tall, shrouded by the heavy fog. The trunks and some of the branches are obscured by the thick mist giving them and almost ethereal quality. Swan Valley, Idaho https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/front-road-pond/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030573frontroadpond.jpg Front Road Pond This is the type of scene I really enjoyed capturing A serene and peaceful ambiance fills the air as the tranquil setting of a large pond is captured. The scene is enveloped in a mystical charm as fog gracefully meanders across the water's surface, creating an enchanting atmosphere.The morning clouds overhead catch the warm hues of the rising sun, casting a reflective glow across the pond. The water of the pond acts as a mirror, reflecting the radiant colors and creating a stunning display of light and shadow. In the distance, the silhouettes of trees emerge from the mist, providing a sense of depth and adding to the ethereal quality of the scene. Overall, this photograph captures a mesmerizing moment in nature's embrace. It portrays the delicate dance between the elements and showcases the serene and otherworldly qualities of a foggy morning on a pond. Three Forks, Montana = September 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/caster-falls-road/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1180233castnerfallsroad2.jpg Castner Falls Road Morning is always my favorite time to capture the beauty Heavenly Father gives to those who rise early.The photograph captures a serene early morning scene in north central region of Montana near Cascade. The foreground of the image showcases tall and majestic Cottonwood trees, their branches forming a beautiful silhouette against the rising sun. These large trees add a dramatic touch to the overall composition. Just under the weeping Cottonwoods, three more Cottonwood trees can be seen in the distance, creating a sense of symmetry and balance within the photograph. Three Forks, Montana - September 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/linear-irrigation/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030617linearirragation.jpg Linear Irrigation In this early morning image the morning sun is casting a warm glow as the newly planted field stretches out before us. The stark linear irrigation system draws the viewer into this unique scene as the sun's rays cast a warm, golden glow across the land, as if breathing life into the new day.As the morning mist softly lingers, a grove of trees can be seen in the distance. Their silhouettes emerge from the fog, creating a sense of mystery and tranquility. The magnificent clouds streak across the deep blue expanse. The combination of the clouds, the open field, the rising sun, and the morning fog creates a serene and captivating atmosphere punctuated by the linear irrigation system. Three Forks, Montana - September 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/birthday-present/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030579birthdaypresent.jpg Birthday Present I took this shot the day before my 76th birthday.Isn't this a great way for Heavenly Father to say happy birthday. I thought so. Three Forks, Montana - September 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/wisk-away-montana/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L103063wiskawaymontana.jpg Wisk Away Montana These clouds just seem to follow the contour of the land. I love the way they lift you through the striking Montana landscape. Three Forks, Montana - September 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/tiny-grove/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/30-Jul-2010_1856tinygroveW.jpg Tiny Grove Normally I don't get that many great shots later in the morning but this time the clouds along with a small group of trees really enhanced the vastness of the area around Telluride Colorado. Last Dollar Road, Colorado - July 2010 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/the-fisherman/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/16-Jul-2010_1861thefisherman.jpg The Fisherman One of those rare mornings with fog and sunshine. Just got lucky. Torrey Pines State Beach, California - July 2010 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/los-penasquitos-lagoon-2/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0081lospenasquitoslagoon.jpg Los Penasquitos Lagoon Del Mar, California - September 2018 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/ruby-beach-study-2/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1110188rubybeachstudy2.jpg Ruby Beach Study - 2 Ruby Beach Washington is one of my favorite spots to shoot at low tide. The beach is strewn with large driftwood logs, giving it an other worldly atmosphere. The towering sea stack looms amid the drifting clouds. Shooting this in black-and-white seems to strengthen the ominous mood. Forks, Washington - May 2022 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/pushing-up/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1140765pushingup2.jpg Pushing Up Looking across the snowy meadow at sunrise you see swaths of fog swirl in the meadow. The bright yellow, pink, orange, gray, and blue push above the horizon at the very moment the sun begins to warm the day. I especially like the way the sun plays with the fog at that very moment. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming - January 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/laying-out/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1140901layingoutW2.jpg Laying Out I have walked by this tree many times hoping to capture an image that would mean something. The dead branches reaching out into the sky are in stark contrast against the soft clouds. The Torrey Pines tree does not want to give up as it stands as a reminder of nature's power to survive and overcome. Torrey Pines State Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/teton-light/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1140761tetonlightW2.jpg Teton Light I tried to take this shot from several different angles and when I processed the photos only one came out. At the Grand Teton's are always interesting and never disappointing. Many good photos have been taken but not a lot of great photos. I'm still looking for that great photo. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming - January 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/teton-rise/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1140792tetonriseW.jpg Teton Rise Driving north from Jackson in the month of January doesn't leave a lot of choices if you're trying to capture images of the Tetons. In this image the sun is just beginning to rise, its golden light shining through the thin clouds and illuminating the majestic snow-covered peaks. The colors are vibrant from the deep blues of the sky to the warm oranges of the sunrise and the pure white of the snow. The Tetons seem to stand in silent majesty in the peacefulness of the morning. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming - January 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/234/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1140886forgottenW.jpg Forgotten There was only one spot to pull off the road because the snow drifts were over 2 feet. Luckily the light was right at that very moment. It is a oddly serene scene with the fog enveloping the trees in an ethereal glow. The trees are shrouded in yhe mist and the only sound is the occasional chirp of birds from the trees. The sun is starting to break through the mist casting the valley in a warm light. It's a calming and tranquil scene, a quiet moment in the midst of winter. Moran, Wyoming - January 2023 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/lone-cypress/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1140508lonecypressW.jpg Lone Cypress - December 2022 This semi silhouette image of the Lone Cypress Tree at Pebble Beach California was taken in the early morning with no clouds in the sky. The Lone Cypress Tree is nestled peacefully within the seaside rocks, standing tall and proud against the magnificent blue sky. The slender cypress branches capture the nuances of the sun's rays as light seeps slowly into the tree. The tree on the far left seems to push the viewers eyes toward the timelessness of the Lone Cypress Tree. Pebble Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/chiesa-di-santa-felicita/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1100761chiesadisantafelicitaW.jpg Chiesa di Santa Felicita On one of my first trips to Florence Italy I got up early one morning and walked across the Ponte Vecchio Bridge in search of some special image. Wandering down the street I came upon a church that from the exterior was very nondescript. I later found out the church has a wonderful history. I am told that from the 14th century up until its renovation in 1785, the church served as a host to numerous famous pieces of art, by the likes of Donatello, Filippo Brunelleschi and Jacopo Sansovino. Converting this image to black-and-white allows the viewer to concentrate on the light coming in from the upper window and the lower window the draws your eye across the image. Florence, Italy - April 2022 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/illuminated-one-ton-bales/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_7570illuminatedonetonbales.jpg Illuminated One Ton Bales I captured this scene just as a rain storm was approaching from the nearby mountains. 1 ton bales found in the open hayfields outside of Bozeman, Montana are most likely hay bales that have been stacked and bound into large, dense bundles.The hay is ready to be transported to stables and ranches, or used as animal feed during the cold winter months. I particularly like the four different layers of light seen in this image. Bozeman, Montana - September 2019 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/pickup-truck/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_4851pickuptruckW.jpg Pickup Truck The pick up truck slowly rolls down the dusty, gravel road, against the backdrop of the gorgeous Montana Mountains. The sun is just beginning to rise, turning the sky a beautiful mixture of orange, gold and pink. A few lonesome birds chirp greeting the morning sun. The only other sound is the crunch of the truck's tires against the road and the old country music on the radio. I was looking the other way shooting towards the east when I heard this pickup truck coming down the gravel road. My first thought was somebody's about to ruin my photograph by kicking up a lot of dust. I'm glad I didn't stay with the first thought. Cascade, Montana - July 2021 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/albert-bierstadt-morning/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_4656albertbierstedtmorningW2.jpg Albert Bierstadt Morning Albert Bierstadt was a prominent 19th century American landscape painter who specialized in grand scenes of the American West. He was renowned for his attention to detail and vivid colors, which allowed viewers to experience the raw beauty of the West in a way that had never been captured before.The Jefferson River outside of Three Forks Montana meanders along the highway and often yields beautiful images. This was a clear July morning and I was so lucky to be there. Albert Bierstadt and Thomas Moran are my two favorite Western artists. To be able to capture a moment that mimics what they put on canvas is an absolute privilege for me. Three Forks, Montana - July 2021 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/226/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0011dimplesW.jpg Dimples Lake Henshaw sits in this large valley surrouned by desert and mountains. In the early morning you can see a mysterious fog rolling off the calm and dimpled water in the foreground. The majestic mountains of Misleh loom in the background, adding to the surreal atmosphere of the scene. Lake Henshaw, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/ready-to-rumble/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000690readytorumbleW.jpg Ready to Rumble "A loser feels cheated if he gives more than he gets; a winner feels that he is simply building up credit for the future." Anonymous It's very hard to describe the beauty of that evening. Clouds filled the sky with dancing images only Heavenly Father could design. So many evenings nothing happens as I wait for the sunset to fade. Not tonight. Torrey Pines State Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/the-clouds-parted/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0166thecloudspartedW.jpg The Clouds Parted The vivid colors of autumn are on full display at Oxbow Bend, Wyoming. Bright yellow and orange colored cottonwood trees stand in stark contrast to the Teton Range in the background, which is shrouded in low-hanging clouds. The reflection of the colorful trees in the glass-like surface of the Snake River can be seen, adding to the beauty of the scene.As a landscape photographer I have to rank in the top 1% of the impatient photographers. That's not how you're supposed to be if you're a landscape photographer but it is for me. Luckily I waited until the clouds parted to capture this image. The colors against the new fallen snow background are amazing. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/morning-meeting-monterey/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1110106morningmeetingmontereyW.jpg Morning Meeting Monterey - April 2022 " It is hard for God to steer a parked car." Brian Kershisnik I was driving through the wharf area of Monterey California before the sun was rising when I saw these six birds all lined up just for me. The ambient light combined with the morning sunrise all provide a unique opportunity. Monterey, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/magic-wand/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1110304magicwandW.jpg Magic Wand "It has been said there are only two things you can give to a child. Roots and wings." AnonymousThe Palouse is the largest lentil growing region in the United States.In the month of June the fenceless hills of the Palouse are seething with different shades of green.Just lucky to be there. Saint John. Washington https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/221/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1110397palousewhispsW.jpg Palouse Whisp's This photograph captures the peaceful beauty of the Palouse region, a picturesque area in eastern Washington state. The rolling hills are lush and green, highlighted by the soft white and whispy clouds streaming across the vibrant blue sky. The light filters through the clouds, creating a mystical and ethereal atmosphere. The fields stretch out blending into the horizon. Colfax, Washington https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/stevens-canyon-road/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000879stevenscanyonroad.jpg Stevens Canyon Road Not very far from Mount Rainier is Stevens Canyon Road. The fog was coming off the valley just as a light was trying to break. Mount Rainer, Washington - August 2022 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/moonset-big-sur/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000021moonsetbigsurW.jpg Moonset Big Sur - April 2022 I saw the moon out of the corner of my eye as I was driving down Highway 101 looking for a shot early in the morning. I'm glad I stopped. Big Sur Coast, California - April 2022 https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/montage/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC4822montageW.jpg Montage I was standing on the lawn at the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach California.This shot was taken in January 2007 with my old Nikon D200. I've always really liked this shot. I don't know if it's because of the tree, the shadows across the green grass, or the man in the ball cap. Without the man in the ball cap the shot falls apart. Laguna Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/spring-flight/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0036springflightW2.jpg Spring Flight The dark silhouette of the raven against the a cloudless morning fog captures a moment of raw beauty and the transient nature of life - a fleeting point in time between the beauty of spring and the chill of winter. Flying away from the sad looking leafless tree and towards the deep fog of the morning captures a moment of raw beauty and the transient nature of earthly life. Lake Hodges, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/uplifting/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_4213upliftingb-w.jpg Uplifting - July 2021 When i am on a photo trip I try to avoid the freeways preferring instead country roads. Not being on the freeway allowed me to pull over and capture this image.The main cloud structure felt like Heavenly Fathers hand. Idaho Falls, Idaho https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/waiting-for-lunch/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC3964waitingforlunchW.jpg Waiting For Lunch One morning I was in The Safari Park in San Diego County just as they were beginning to serve lunch to the gorillas. The gorillas very humanly seem to be patiently waiting for that moment of food. San Diego, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/willet-adventure/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0005willetadventure.jpg Willet Adventure Willets are large shorebirds that I frequently see in the fall months along Torrey Pines Beach. That evening I caught the sunset colors in the sand. The colors were bright enough that it gave no detail to the Willits. Lucky me. Torrey Pines State Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/two-flocks/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_2572wa.jpg Two Flocks With the fall season in full swing Hayden Valley in Yellowstone National Park is often filled with thick fog.I saw these two large flocks of geese swoop in from the sky to land on the icy Yellowstone River. The sunlight streaming through the fog creates a beautiful and dramatic effect that brings the scene to life.The sky is a mix of light blue and gray in the background, making the geese stand out in stark contrast to the misty waters of the river. The island in the background is visible, with a handful of trees poking out from the whiteness of the fog. Most of the environment is quickly blurred away in the mist, creating a feeling of peacefulness and serenity around the entire scene. This photograph captures the beauty of nature and it's ability to surprise us even when things seem hidden away. https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/secret-beach/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1090829secretbeachW.jpg Secret Beach North of Brookings Oregon is a beach they call Secret Beach. It's really not that secret because the path to the beach is really worn. Very steep and very worn path. Wow is it worth the effort! Brookings, Oregon https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/diameter/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0026diameterW.jpg Diameter Normally I can very easily say why I like an image. This image defies explanation to me. I just enjoy the image. Torrey Pines State Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/highway-1/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1010817highway1W2.jpg Highway 1 - October 2022 The scenes along Highway 1 always amaze me. One time it will be very nondescript in a specific area and the next time the same area looks like a magnificent painting.In this image the rocks are so large, they look like an intimidating barrier that is shielding the ocean's unknown. The fog almost creates a division that further symbolizes that somewhat inaccessible feeling of Pacific Valley. The moody sky and the sharp contrast of the rocks and the ocean create a dramatic and captivating atmosphere. Pacific Valley, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/cypress-point/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1010672cypresspointb-w2.jpg Cypress Point - October 2022 Pebble Beach has made it extremely hard for anyone to get a good shot of this place. There is it 6 foot chain-link fence that prevents anyone from enjoying this spot. I think they're trying to keep people from going down to the beach. But I fooled them. Pebble Beach, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/tres-pelicans/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1010493trespelicansW2.jpg Tres Pelicans - October 2022 Training the pelicans to fly over the rocks at the very moment the rocks are draining water from a large wave takes years and years and years of practice. Ha Ha. It just takes being there enough times that sometimes you get lucky. Pacific Grove, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/cypress/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1010616cypressW2.jpg Cypress - October 2022 I was driving along 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach California well past an hour after sunrise when I noticed this shot. The problem was I had to look directly into the sun and also condense the image with a long lens. Obviously I wasn't going to look into the sun so I simply pointed my camera in the general direction and tried several shots. I just got lucky. Pacific Grove, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/strolling-the-seine/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1090143strollingtheseineW3.jpg Strolling the Seine It had been overcast and gloomy in Paris for the previous five days. Finally that evening the clouds broke and gave me this opportunity. My wife tells me this photograph looks like something out of the 1940s. Paris, France https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/classic/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1090187classicW2.jpg Classic The Eiffel tower, the Seine river, and the beauty of Paris any time of the year. This shot was taken in the month of December 2021. All of our children had made a decision to go to their spouses homes during Christmas so being left alone we decided to go to Paris. Great decision. Paris, France https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/palouse-river-mist/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_3542palouserivermistW.jpg Palouse River Mist As I left my motel room in Colfax Washington the sky was perfectly clear and there was not a cloud in sight. By the time I reached the Palouse River the cloudless sky and the cold river presented a wonderful morning present. Fog!! The landscape photographers elixir. Those contrasting colors lasted but a brief moment. Palouse, Washington https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/its-just-god-showing-off/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1010466itsjustgodshowingoff2W.jpg It's Just God Showing Off I was standing next to this beautiful scene taking a shot when this rancher pulled up alongside of me and started talking. He said this was his land and commented that this was a really beautiful scene. He told me In Montana they say "it's just God showing off". Very apropos. Willow Creek, Montana https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/larbre-penche-et-le-pont/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1090132xz3.jpg L'arbre penche et le pont Walking along the Seine river the day after Christmas the trees are just begging for spring. Paris can be one large sketching board. Paris, France https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/firestorm-over-lewis-lake/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0099gf.jpg Firestorm Over Lewis Lake - September 2009 It was about 10 minutes before sunset when I walked up to Lewis Lake in Yellowstone National Park. The sky was completely clear and devoid of any clouds. As I stood there I had no idea of what I should shoot. Out of nowhere smoke from a forest fire down in the valley started to roll across Lewis Lake just as the sun was setting and these images are the result of that moment.. Once in a lifetime images. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/beach-heat/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000906-2.jpg Beach Heat Very seldom do we get clouds like this in San Diego and I'm so happy I was out that evening. I must go to Torrey Pines State Beach in the evening over 20 times a year and seldom do I walk away with anything. Tonight was different. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/sedona-storm/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0013sedonastormW.jpg Sedona Storm This was the second photo trip I had taken to Sedona and I really had no idea where to shoot. Somebody suggested I drive up Schnebly Hill and upon their advice I embarked upon one of the worst roads I've ever driven on my entire life. It was definitely made for vehicles with 3 foot clearance underneath the car not my rental car. I drove as far as I could up the hill and stopped. As I waited for the sun to set this storm decided to move over the valley. Lucky me. Sedona, Arizona https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/taking-my-time/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000973moo.jpg Taking My Time Several hours after sunrise I drove down to Schwabacher Landing in the Grand Teton National Park. Normally I don't take any photos that late in the day because the light is so flat. After I got out of my car and started walking toward the beaver pond several people asked me if I had seen the moose further on down the Snake River inlet. I hadn't so I went to look and this is what I found. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/schutter-road-barn/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1110431schutterroadbarnW.jpg Schutter Road Barn On the flight into Bozeman Montana the pilot came over the intercom and said we might have to land at a different airport because of a hail storm that was coming into the Bozeman area. We landed and luckily the hail storm was still on its way. Those are hail pocket clouds about to blanket the area. Bozeman, Montana https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/madison-county/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000304madisoncountyW.jpg Madison County This image captures a stunning sight across the Madison County Valley in Montana. A monumental cumulus cloud looms overhead, taking up the majority of the frame. The light and fluffy clouds appear fleecy and majestic as they fill the sky to the horizon, reaching almost to the heavens in some parts. In the far background, the mountain range provides an awe-inspiring contrast against the bright sky, completing a picturesque scene that can only be fully appreciated in its majestic entirety. North of Twin Bridges, Montana https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/dynamic-secret-beach/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1090809dynamicsecretbeach.jpg Dynamic Secret Beach This place is so strikingly beautiful you don't have to be much of a photographer to catch a beautiful shot. Only one other person was around. It was a young man named Sonny from Kansas City Missouri. Brookings, Oregon https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/fresh-snow/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050363fre.jpg Fresh Snow The majestic Teton Mountains loom in the background, completely covered in white snow, almost blending into the wispy clouds. The light is soft, illuminated by the bright blue sky, creating a dreamy atmosphere. There's a distinct stillness to this image,as if you could get lost in this beautiful untouched frozen Jackson Lake.It was the last day of my January Grand Teton photo trip. It warmed up to 6° below zero. For whatever reason it always seems like the last day of a photo trip ends up being the best day for photos. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/morning-bird-meeting/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_3165mor.jpg Morning Bird Meeting Lake Hodges is one of my favorite local places to see what images the morning will yield. I just happened to be at the right place that morning. Lake Hodges, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/cloud-feathers/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_2335aa.jpg Cloud Feathers "In America if you work hard on your job you can make a living. If you work hard on yourself, you can make a fortune." Jim Rohn On this morning there were no clouds so it forced me to look for other images. I doubt I would've seen this image had there not been so few clouds. Polson, Montana https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/blackfeet-indian-reservation/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0021bla.jpg Blackfeet Indian Reservation I took the wrong road from Great Falls Montana towards Glacier National Park. As a result I was late in getting to where I thought I wanted to shoot. If I hadn't been late I would've missed this shot. Very glad I was late. Browning, Montana https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/los-penasquitos-lagoon/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0081los.jpg Los Penasquitos Lagoon "If you want to be inspired you will find the divine in the small as much as in the large" Zachary Proctor It was high tide on a very foggy fall morning. Luckily I was there just as the sun was rising. The sun in this shot is so brilliant almost making it difficult to look at the image. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/ice-fisherman/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1050355ice.jpg Ice Fisherman It was 9° below zero when I took this shot. A solitary ice fisherman standing on Jackson Lake overshadowed by the majestic Teton Peaks. The serene lake is rimmed by a frosted layer of snow, with the peacefulness of the scene only accentuated by the misty clouds partially obscuring the Tetons in the background. The one and only time I have seen an ice fishermen on Jackson Lake. I can't even imagine how cold he must have been. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/hayden-valley/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0211gf.jpg Hayden Valley The Grand Loop Road dissects the inner part of Yellowstone national Park. Hayden Valley is one of those areas it goes through. Huge herds of Buffalo roam through that area. There was a lot of smoke in the air that morning when I took the shot. Yellostone National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/cotton-candy/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0007mn.jpg Cotton Candy In the Tetons the autumn light combined with lazy clouds will at times produce a delightful sunset. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/patriotic-pop-2/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0024g.jpg Patriotic Pop This image just makes me feel patriotic. Whatever that means. It just feels so uplifting. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/blooming/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0049a1v.jpg Blooming Doesn't this look like a blooming plant? When you do fireworks photography you really have no idea what shot you're going to capture until you start going through the images. It's all luck. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/ferris-wheel/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0068x.jpg Ferris Wheel Without the Ferris wheel this image would lack any sort of interest. With the Ferris wheel it's a one of a kind moment. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/weed-pile/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_0012ag.jpg Weed Pile When I look at this photo I think of those nasty little burrs that cling to your socks as you walk through the weeds. Hence the name. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/slammed/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1040065.jpg Slammed - November 2021 The Big Sur coastline stretches alongside Garapata Beach as far as the eye can see. The ocean roars beneath the craggy rock formation extending up from the coast. A fierce mist of whip sprayed foam flies into the air as 20 foot waves slam against the shoreline. The waves are tumultuous and powerful, crashing against the cliffs with all their might and strength. The glimmering sun spreads light through the fog, casting a magical golden glow that reflects off the furious crashing of the waves. The rocks make for an unsteady footing for the brave adventurers that venture out onto the coast today. In the midst of this epic stormy morning cormorants perch on the large rock while epic waves crash against the spectacular Big Sur scene. Cabrillo Highway, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/rocky-point/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1030690.jpg Rocky Point - November 2021 I photographed this spot many times hoping I was there as the fog rolls off the cold water onto the warm hills. Many times I'm too early or more often than not too late. Today I got really lucky. Big Sur, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/cascade-lake/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0041aw.jpg Cascade Lake For me the San Juan islands are always so moody. I really enjoy the ferry ride to Orcas Island because it seems to engage all my senses . My original plan that morning was to drive up Mount Constitution and shoot the bay. By chance I stopped at Cascade Lake and look what I found. Orcas Island, Washington https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/egret-ghost/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/13-Sep-2013_1760aw.jpg Egret Ghost "One sees clearly only with the heart. Anything essential is invisible to the eyes." Saint-Exupery's Little Prince Lake Hodges is home to so many birds. I especially enjoy the egrets. I have no idea how I was able to capture this moment. I only know it speaks to the egret's loner personality. The really interesting thing to me is you have this wonderful reflection and there's no horizon line. It's as if a ghost following the egret Lake Hodges, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/table-for-two/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1010861.jpg Table For Two Moose rutting behaviors typically begin in late August or early September and continue until early to mid-October. Just before I took this shot these two Bull Moose were sparring with each other. Unfortunately I missed that shot. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/drought/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1060063.jpg Drought This image captures a breathtaking yet somber view of Jackson Lake in the midst of a severe drought. The lake has largely been reduced to a patchwork of dry land, with the towering peaks of the Teton range stretching across the distant horizon. Above the majestic mountain range, the stratus fractus clouds provide an added touch of drama to this already striking landscape. I started coming to the Grand Teton National Park in 1952. I have never seen Jackson Lake so low. During this drought year water from Jackson Lake was drawn down to irrigate potato fields in Idaho's Snake River plain and grow crops that are used to nourish cattle parked on feedlots. https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/encased/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000325az.jpg Encased Painting with a camera. That's what I feel like I'm doing when I capture an image like this. Most of the time it's serendipitous but it never ceases to amaze me when it happens. Glacier National Park, Montana https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/mystery/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/L1000415az.jpg Mystery I had been lucky enough to have fog, mist and snow all morning long. Of all the times I've been to Glacier National Park this is the first time that Going to the Sun Highway has been open in the Fall. This photograph encapsulates the beauty I saw that morning. Glacier National Park, Montana https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/ready-to-storm/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_8580a.jpg Ready to Storm - July 2016 I was driving between Soda Springs Idaho and Star Valley Wyoming in anticipation of the evening photo shoot. As I got outside of Soda Springs I saw the storm brewing on the horizon. Using a long lens I captured the storm rolling across the field. The cumulus clouds in the background ended up being framed between the storm and the rolling hills. Meadowville, Idaho https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/cowbell/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0055ac.jpg Cowbell There is so much energy in this one shot. The muscles in the bull.The cowbell going the opposite direction of the bulls momentum. The helpless rider on the ground and the clown rushing to his rescue while the cowboys on the fence are wondering if they really want to do this or not. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/alright-who-is-next/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0044ba.jpg Alright! Who is Next? The bull looks like he's ready to rumble with whichever person is silly enough to get in his way. Both clowns are trying to get his attention away from the poor cowboy on the ground. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/stop-please/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0175_1c.jpg Stop!Please!! The bull dwarfs everyone else in the shot and the bull seems to have seen happier days. Being a rodeo clown must be one of the more dangerous occupations in the world. del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/parting-ways/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0029_3-1.jpg Parting ways All three onlookers seem to be thinking "well do I really want to do this" When you're shooting action shots like this it is much easier to determine you have a great shot after you took it than before. So it really is luck just to get these shots. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/snot-flying/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0197_1ca.jpg Snot Flying The anticipation of both the rider and the onlooker tell the story in this photo. The bull on the other hand is having nothing to do with the annoyance on his back. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/thats-going-to-hurt-in-the-morning/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/94_1ca.jpg Thats Going to Hurt in the Morning - July 2009 It is far beyond me why someone would subject themselves to this type of agony. My stepson used to ride bulls when he was younger. He said it was the greatest seven second adrenaline rush you could possibly get. I hope his two daughters stick with softball. Del Mar, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/floaters/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_5828wc.jpg Floaters The rolling hills of the Palouse in the month of June are typically deep green. Outside of Saint John Washington I came upon this farm that had planted both canola and wheat. Luckily for me a big happy cloud decided to roll over these beautiful multicolored hills. Saint John. Washington https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/egret-morning/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/Lake-Hodges-Nov-23-2012_0082ab.jpg Egret Morning Because 2012 was the third warmest La Niña year on record the water was very high. The water in Lake Hodges covered many of the trees that were closer to the shore. That was great for the photographers and even better for the birds. Lake Hodges, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/mount-lemmon-road/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0045as.jpg Mount Lemmon Road I had driven to the top of Mount Lemmon in an effort to see what type of views were possible that evening. Not seeing anything I liked I started to drive back into Tucson just as the sun was setting. I was very happy to see wispy cirrus clouds hang above the desert floor. Mount Lemmon, Arizona https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/tillamook-bay/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0051aw.jpg Tillamook Bay It was the last morning of my May photo trip to the Oregon coast. I was driving back towards Tillamook, Oregon on the Netarts Highway not really knowing what to expect. Luckily fog was coming off the water on Tillamook Bay as I arrived a little before sunrise. Tillamook, Oregon https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/hanging-on/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/_DSC0009hangingonW.jpg Hanging On "A great attitude is not the result of success; success is the result of a great attitude" Earl Nightingale It was mid afternoon and I was driving along Teton Park Road during the first week of October. All of the tourists had left the park and I had the entire road to myself. A snow storm came up and the light was very flat leaving this one tree all to itself. Normally by this time of year all the leaves are gone off all the trees yet this one was still hanging on. Lucky for us. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/two-swans/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_2214aw.jpg Two Swans This is the first time I have been to Oxbow Bend in the early spring. The two swans in the lower left corner really make the shot. I really enjoyed doing this in black-and-white as it added a crispness to the shot. If there is such a word. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/good-morning/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_5942sa.jpg Good Morning I had driven to the top of Steptoe Butte in the Palouse early one morning looking for potential scenes to capture. Luckily that morning fog painted the valley down below. Without the farmhouse the scene would be nice but lack any perspective. The Palouse is a wonderful area to visit in the early summer when all is still green. Steptoe Butte, Washington https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/three-down/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/Lake-Hodges-Nov-23-2012_0099a.jpg Three Down I wish I could say I planned for all three egrets to have their wings down at the very moment I released my shutter but that would be a gross exaggeration. It was just luck or perhaps karma for all the times I stood on the shore and nothing happened.Lake Hodges continues to be my favorite local spot for shooting in the fall. This fall morning I was gifted with fog and amazing light. Normally the reeds are not that far out into the water so I was simply at the right place at the right time Lake Hodges, California https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/firehole-river/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_3713.jpg Firehole River The Firehole River is a magical pot. I find otherworldly images each morning I am willing to venture into the late fall cold. The light is the determining factor for this image. The color of light in an image is so fleeting. I love an image that because of the light will never be seen again. Yellostone National Park, Wyoming https://www.ralanstone.org/photo/palouse-barn/ https://www.ralanstone.org/images/xl/DSC_3797homesteadW.jpg Palouse Barn The barn sat by itself away from the main house. It didn't appear as if it had been used in years. In order to get the shot I had to shoot between two other buildings. Doing that allowed me to bring in the clouds. Colfax, Washington https://www.ralanstone.org/news/ https://www.ralanstone.org/contact/