Windy Gap, White Mountains National Recreation Area
Northern lights swirl over Windy Gap cabin in the White Mountains National recreation area. Canon 5D Mark III, 16-35mm f/2.8L (22mm) 10 sec. @ f/2.8, ISO 1600
It might not be surprising to find the wind blustery on the eve of this shoot, considering the cabin is probably named Windy Gap for a good reason. It is situated along fossil creek in the White Mountains National Recreation Area, and during this time of year, the location is notorious for overflow, and the creek appears more like a frozen lake. Fortunately, it was a relatively warm evening, and after 40+ miles on a snowmachine, pleasant to stand in the silence of the night and watch the skies. Actually, I ended up laying on the ice on my back and gazing into the sky waiting for the northern lights to take form.
While the aurora borealis is stunning all by itself, I do like to include some human habitation reference in the scenes when possible, as it tends to add interest to the picture. The willow brush along the creek was thick and the greatest foreground but the spruce trees behind the cabin add a nice visual element.
Beautiful photo and I agree that including human habitation adds interest to the photo. I love the reflection of light on the thawing overflow ice as well.
It was a fabulous year for aurora hunting/shooting and I lost many hours of sleep this past winter staying up to enjoy and photograph them. I hear they will be even better next year. I will need to learn how to nap, I suppose.
While I’m certainly thrilled for the arrival of spring/summer here in Fairbanks, I will miss the night skies, the stars, and the beautiful aurora.
Thanks Susan,
I too will miss the night sky, in many respects, the endless daylight is over rated.
Gorgeous shot!