On a Sunday near the end of January, I embarked on a rather spontaneous hiking excursion to a nearby mountain. With the intention of getting some physical activity and perhaps capturing a few stunning photographs, I hit the narrow path leading upwards. Despite setting out late, I was determined to make the most of the day.
As I ascended, the trail winding its way upwards, I found myself engrossed in the journey, not yet finding the perfect moment to pause for a photograph. However, as the clock struck 12 and I reached the designated summit, everything changed.
There it was, the summit cross – standing tall against the sky, illuminated by the midday sun. Instantly, I felt the pull to reach the top, but as I approached, I noticed the sun positioned directly behind the cross. It was then that I remembered the true purpose of my hike – to capture the beauty of the moment.
Stepping back, I allowed myself to absorb the scene before me. The sun’s rays casting a warm glow over the landscape, creating a magical ambiance. With determination, I adjusted my camera settings and carefully framed the shot, capturing the sun as it peeked over the summit.
Satisfied with my first shot, I continued to explore the summit, seeking out new angles and perspectives. Despite the familiarity of the scene, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I hadn’t quite captured its essence. Determined to perfect my shot, I made a mental note to return, using each visit as an opportunity to hone my photography skills.
Taking a moment to rest and refuel with a snack, I found myself entranced by the panoramic views stretching out before me. The sky, tinged with hues of orange and pink, stood in stark contrast to the snow-covered landscape below. It was a sight to behold, made all the more special by the rare weather phenomenon occurring overhead.
You see, we were fortunate enough to witness a unique event – dust from the Sahara Desert, carried thousands of kilometers by the wind, had settled over the Alps, casting a surreal orange glow over the landscape. It was a rare and captivating sight, one that added an extra layer of magic to an already unforgettable hike.
As I descended from the summit, the memories of the day lingered in my mind. Though I may not have captured the perfect photograph, the experience itself was enough to leave a lasting impression. And with each step, I looked forward to the next adventure, eager to explore and capture the beauty of the world around me.