The Color of Summer was awarded "The Peoples Choice Award" in the 19th Annual Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition, held at the Turchin Center for Visual Arts in Boone, NC.
The Cowee Mountain Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Cherokee, North Carolina, offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. On this early summer day, it would be my final destination to capture the sunset after exploring the parkway for the entire day and “chasing the light,” as we say in photography. The conditions at this overlook are constantly changing due to the high elevation. As I set up my tripod and camera, a large ominous storm cloud rolled in over the valley directly in front of me, creating perfect symmetry and drama in my frame. This cloud would soon become the star of the show!
As I watched the scene unfold, in a matter of minutes, the clouds transformed from dark grey exploding into a rainbow of colors from the intense sunlight. It was the perfect precursor to one of the most spectacular sunsets I have ever witnessed. At that moment, with tears in my eyes, I realized that it was a gentle sign from God. He is our light in times of darkness. He is our peace when the storms of life hover above. They are just passing through. There is always a beautiful sunset waiting for us in the end. I hope this scenic view inspires you to keep your eyes on His divine light and everlasting presence.
