NATURE :: Sunrise Do Over

Image

Juno Beach Sunrise by Chip Bunnell PhotographyIt is no secret that sunrise is my most favorite part of the day. Unlike a single holiday, it is a celebration that happens 365 times a year. It is a time of excitement and filled with hope. Just like a massive curtain rising, the sunrise is the signal of the start to the world’s largest play.

Just think, within hours the morning sky slowly moves from cold dark blues to the introductions of warmer oranges and yellows. Almost as a powerful cleanser, the sunrise breaks through the darkness and allows us another try. In many respects, a sunrise wipes the slate clean and allows us to do today better than we did yesterday. Whether we look out and see a corn field in Kansas, a distant mountain range in Montana, a virtual sea of skyscrapers in Chicago or the flowing ocean of South Florida, we each have a new day and a new chance.

I made this image on one of the northern Palm Beaches. It was a quiet morning. The clouds gave a defusement to the rising sun while adding interest beyond the ocean’s edge. The pier adds a man-made element that directs your eye to explore the frame.

Regardless of the trials and tribulations we experience during any given day, there is comfort in knowing the sun will rise again. Like when we played as children, a “do over” is allowed…if we allow it.

Single Frame, Processed in LR

www.ChipBunnell.com

NATURE :: Waves of Power

Image

Sunrise Waves by Chip Bunnell PhotographyEven though I had roughly another hour, my body decided it was ready to awaken…mostly. This morning was to be a rare treat – a wonderful sunrise to practice my craft and my beautiful bride sharing it by my side. As I thought of our adventure, I had no specific destination in mind. Like Luke in 1977, I would use “The Force” and was confident we would find something amazing!

As we approached the pre-dawn highway, I asked my bride if we should go to Miami or Jupiter? She quickly said Jupiter…North it was! Looking to the sky, a thick cloud blanket made me question the wisdom of our trek. Having faith we would find something to fill the frame, we began our journey. A rain shower along the way made us again question our plan, but we pressed onward with the confidence there would be a reward.

As we approached our target, we could see the outline of patchy clouds in the darkness. We had found a hole in the low hanging blanket. Visions of spectacular sunrises were now filling my head. A number of fellow photographers where already at this beach when we arrived. A friendly nod to each and I went to work.

The easterly wind created a constant stream of waves. One by one, they crashed on the resolute rocks. Ironically, the greatest waves rolling in did not make the greatest impact. Instead, it was the quiet ones that had the greatest strength. They seemed to approach with natural stealth and then explode with incredible force just feet in front of us.  Water sprayed from all sides of the rigid coral formations creating a spectacular show.

This caused me to reflect on the upcoming week. Will we approach it with loud intentions, but give out before completion? Or will we have a quiet, determined focus while embracing opportunities with great force and resolve? Ultimately, that is a decision for each of us to make….  Like the example of these powerful waves, here’s to an eye on the goal as we meet new challenges head on, with strength and enthusiasm.

Single exposure, Processed in LR and Topaz Clarity

Subscribe to my blog on the right –>

www.ChipBunnell.com