Reflection Lake
Oh Pacific Northwest, you can be so annoying sometimes! Mt. Rainier can be a very elusive beast, so if you do get to see her in all her glory, consider yourself lucky! Let's dive into the best things to photograph at Reflection Lake, and don't worry, I've got you covered even if Mt. Rainier decides to play hide and seek, like it did when I visited Reflection Lake. That’s the thing with nature photography - we can’t control the weather, so we always have to have a plan B!
The Golden Hour Glory
1. Mt. Rainier's Reflection: The pièce de résistance! On a calm morning, the lake mirrors the majestic Mt. Rainier, creating a stunning double image that's worth waking up at an ungodly hour for. The soft, golden light of sunrise adds a magical touch, making your photos look like they belong in a nature magazine.
2. Wildflower Wonderland: During the summer months, the area around Reflection Lake bursts into a riot of colors with wildflowers like lupines, paintbrushes, and avalanche lilies. These vibrant blooms make for fantastic foreground subjects, adding depth and interest to your shots.
3. Morning Mist: If you're lucky, you might catch a layer of mist hovering over the lake. This ethereal phenomenon adds a mystical quality to your photos, making them look like scenes from a fantasy novel.
When Mt. Rainier is Feeling Shy
Sometimes, Mt. Rainier decides to hide behind a curtain of clouds. But fear not, intrepid photographer! There are still plenty of things to capture:
1. Reflections of Trees and Sky: Even without the mountain, the lake offers beautiful reflections of the surrounding trees and sky. The calm waters create a mirror-like surface that's perfect for capturing serene, minimalist shots.
2. Macro Magic: Get up close and personal with the flora around the lake. Dew-kissed wildflowers, intricate spider webs, and textured tree bark make for fascinating macro photography subjects.
3. Wildlife Wonders: Keep an eye out for the local residents. Birds, squirrels, and the occasional deer might make an appearance, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Just remember, no paparazzi-style ambushes—give them their space.
4. Creative Compositions: Use the natural elements around you to create interesting compositions. Frame shots with overhanging branches, use rocks as leading lines, or capture the interplay of light and shadow on the water.
5. Sun Stars: If the sun is out, drop your aperture to f22 and turn that sun into a star. At least you’ll get SOME kind of reflection, right!
So as you can see, I’ll definitely have to re-visit this one. And THAT is a good thing!