One of the constant tenets that I have observed in my life is change. Every day brings about new possibilities and opportunities, and along with it, new twists and turns. I have realized that perhaps one of the best ways to deal with life-changing changes is to have a constant - an object, person, place, or activity that one can cling on to. And the purpose of that constant is not to escape away from the harsh reality, but to provide an anchor point that you can trust.
For me, that constant has been photography for the sake of photography. It has imparted in me a great drive to continue exploring and discovering places, to seek out new challenges and opportunities, as well as an inspiration for curiosity
When I was processing a set of images from a Pacific sunset, it reminded me of where I had come from and what all I had experienced since that moment. Despite those changes, it is that passion for photography that has kept me in awe of this planet.
Now for the story behind the photo.
The year of 2014 heralded a lot of changes in my life. And while many began their year with a bad hangover, I instead chose to chase the clouds and a winter sunset along the beautiful Pacific coast near Santa Cruz in California. Normally getting to this location involves a scramble on mossy slippery rocks, but the low tide prior to the sunset ensured a rather easy climb up onto the ledge overlooking the misty swirls of the Pacific.
With a few minutes left for the sky to colorize, I started to visualize what the the best composition would be. Finally I ended up on this wedge of rock with a narrow channel to the left and waited around for the right wave to come crashing through the rocks. A few choice exposures later, I landed with a keeper, thanks to a graduated ND filter that kept the sky in check.
That finger of rock on the upper left is a prominent fixture in many of the Santa Cruz photographer's collection. And for good reason - the location has some amazing photographic opportunities that I would love to come back and explore.
Hole in the Wall Beach
CA USA