Harvest Storm BW

Description:  Building within the plains of the Yampa Valley Basin, a powerful August storm collides with the Sleeping Giant under the cover of night. The pursuit of this image took nearly a dozen attempts during a short period when ready-for-harvest hay bales were perfectly positioned for an aesthetic composition of a classic Routt County scene.For many years I’ve wanted to capture a unique photograph featuring the Sleeping Giant and lightning strikes. In late July of 2023, this field showcased hay bales ready for harvest, and perfectly placed for an aesthetic composition. Over the course of the following two weeks, I ventured out to the location 10 times pursuing the perfect shot, aware the hay bales might be harvested and disappear any day. On this evening, I noticed a dramatic storm rolling into the valley, and rushed out to the location. Quickly setting up my equipment, I braced myself for the storm. When it hit, the wind was so powerful it was hard to keep the camera weighted dow