Last week, I headed down to Gulf Shores, Alabama with the family and some good friends (Jennifer and Mark Mazelin). I had photo-priorities. Violet on the beach with her friend Avery, Jill and Violet on the beach, and maybe some family portraits. But, deep down, I really want a sunset. For a few years, I have watched as the sun sink below the surf and not have a camera in my hand. This year I made sure to pay attention to the weather, watch the cloud formations in the late afternoon and I had my tripod on standby. I didn't want a pretty shot, I was aiming for breathtaking.
My opportunity came on a Wednesday. We had no plans to eat out. I had been eyeing a leafless tree just off the shore of Mobile Bay all week. This tree was across the street from the place we were staying. Jill, Violet and I took a walk on the beach, knocked out photos of Violet, Violet and Jill on the beach and some family portraits (sort of). As we headed back, I knew this sunset would be spectacular. I left Violet and Jill as I headed to our room to grab my tripod...the key did not work. I was not happy. my chance to get he sunset I wanted, gone.
I caught up with Jill and told we couldn't get in the room. I decided to go to guest services (it was on the way to my tree). Made them aware of our issue. And then I ran, in flip-flops, to the bay. As I am running I notice the colors. I worry I may not make it time. When I get to the shoreline, I quickly observe what I am working with, find a spot, compose the shot and fire off a few clicks. During my run, I made the adjustments to my camera to reduce set up time.
I think if I would have been there five minutes earlier I would have gotten some wonderful colors. As it is, I was able to capture a pretty sunset. My small victory.
