A Stunning Sunset Along the James River
Right Place, Right Time…Barely.
I nearly missed capturing this sunset. I was photographing fall colors in Mariner’s Park when the light started to change. By the time I got back to my car I could tell that the sunset was going to be spectacular…but I was surrounded by trees. A split second decision had me in the drivers seat and heading toward what I hoped was the James River waterfront.
About 5 minutes later (it felt a lot longer) the view opened up and there was the expansive James River with the sun setting on the far side. I snagged a parking place, grabbed my gear and ran to the water’s edge, all the while looking for the best place to frame my shot.
This was my reward…
James River Sunset (Edited in Lightroom and Luminar 2018)
Blue Hour on the James River (edited in Lightroom and Aurora HDR 2018)
The photo below took a bit of experimentation to capture. I noticed the perfect s-curve in the road and then waited for cars to come along (all while getting eaten by mosquitos). 25 seconds turned out to be the magic number. It was a bonus that I was able to capture one car coming and the other going!!
James River Light Trails (Edited in Lightroom and Luminar 2018)
I’m so glad I took the chance and chased the sunset! This area around Mariner’s Park has so much to offer. I need to make my way back there again soon.
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