Terri, Tent, Orange Rock Sunrise: Smith Rocks, OR

Smith Rocks, in central Oregon, boasts some of the most incredible sunsets and sunrises I've ever experienced.  On clear nights, the massive volcanic pillars become wild silhouettes of fantastic creatures.  In the morning, they burn bright, angry orange in the first light from the Eastern desert.

On this frozen morning, I was up before the sun, photographing the shapes of the tuffa spires in brooding light.  Returning, I found Terri standing by our tent in the shadows in her thick jacket, drinking in the incredible colours of the morning.  She stood still as I photographed her, tiny and alone against the intimidating cliffs.

The early morning colour doesn't last long.  An hour later, our campsite was in full sun, the soft orange light turning white and melting the light frost while we ate our breakfast.

Terri, Tent, Orange Rock Sunrise: Smith Rocks, OR, 2002