Teton Photography Day 2
Mormon Row
On our second day in the park, I again took out the camera to head out and begin our photography adventures.
First stop, Mormon Row. The series of old barns, homes, and out buildings at Mormon Row make for spectacular photography, particularly at sunrise. For my subject today, I opted to photograph the TA Moulton barn. This is one of the two most popular barns in the area to photograph.
I don’t know much of it’s history, only that it’s a very popular photography spot. Should you want to photograph either of the barns, make sure you are there early. Best to get there a minimum of an hour before sun up. The ideal spot for the photography doesn’t provide a lot of room for the droves of photographers commonly present, however, there is always a way to frame a shot while there.
I like the warm light just after the sun comes up for this barn. It’s a wonderful subject.
After photographing the barn, I did a little photography of it’s “back yard” as well.
The TA Moulton Barn at Mormon Row in the Grand Teton National Park
Backyard View at the TA Moulton Barn in the Grand Teton National Park
Schwabacher Landing
After our time at the Mormon Row, we headed over to Schwabacher Landing. This, just like Mormon Row is an incredibly popular spot to do sunrise photography. It’s even more difficult to find a spot to set up shop when you arrive. There are two spots to capture your image. The first is just at the base of the parking area. The second is about 200 yards down a short trail to the right.
Both locations are going to give you a stunning image. However, it’s imperative you arrive early should you want to get a good shot. VERY early should you want to photograph the second location. The second spot is highly sought after and provides enough room for about 7 tripods.
I’ve found, in most instances, while at the second spot, just asking if I can cut in for a few minutes will generally provide me a location. However, I wouldn’t plan the photographers on location being cooperative. Many, I have found, are very territorial and can be rude over such matters when the space is tight. The attitude seems to be “If you wanted it, you should have arrived at 3am as I did”.
That’s unreasonable. In my view, as a professional, if you haven’t achieved your shot, in particular in such a sought after location, within a few minutes, you lack skill as a photographer.
I know the shot I want, the light I want, the time to get the shot, know my settings. I can have my shot in 5 minutes, including set up and take down.
It’s rude and unnecessary to hog the spot to get the shot. The light is not going to change all that dramatically that you need to stand the ground for 90 minutes shooting.
End of Soap Box Rant!
Schwbacher Landing at Sunrise Grand Teton National Park
Schwabacher Landing Location 2 Grand Teton National Park
Moose Wilson Road
After our stop at Schwabacher we opted to drive the Moose Wilson Road all the way to the Teton Village. This road is replete with wildlife should that be your photography desire. Moose, bear, elk, eagles and so forth frequent this drive at sun up and sun down both.
I am not much into wildlife photography, but if you are, it’s here you want to be.
The 9 mile drive is a slow one, but loaded with plenty to see and photograph. I recommend it highly.
At the exit of the park, you entire into the Bridger Teton Forest again and shortly before the Teton Village I found a wonderful spot to launch the drone and capture the stunning colors of the Aspen groves blanketing the mountain faces. This air spice is controlled so proper authorization to fly is required.
Aspens Dot the Landscape Just outside of the Teton Village in Wyoming
A Lone Cottonwood at the base of the Teton Range
Aerial Shot of Autumn Aspens and Pines in the Bridger Teton National Forest
Snake River Overlook
After our drive through Teton Village and then Jackson we headed back home for the remainder of the day. After taking care of a number of business matters, we set out again at sun set in an attempt to do some photography at our final stop for the day, the Snake River Overlook. This overlook is sought after and best photographed in late sun. It’s a vast expanse so it’s tough to photograph. I used both a wide angle as well as a 200mm telephoto for the shots you see here.
I like lens flare in some shots and this was a good time to do so.
The snake river overlook was famously photographed by renowned photographer Ansel Adams who did a number of his famous black and whites of the area.
It’s particularly stunning in the winter months…but that’s for another time for me.
Snake River Overlook with a 200mm telephoto lens showcases the fall colors
Fall at Snake River Overlook in the Grand Tetons shot at 35mm
Day 2 of our Fall photography adventure is in the books.
I hope you enjoy the images and perhaps find yourself encouraged to take a trip out here some day. Every season has it’s highlights. Shoulder seasons are best for diminished populations of people…spring and fall. Winter, of course, would be amazing photographically. Just not sure if I can handle the extreme cold any more.
I’ll be posting the day 3 update soon.
Until then,
rob out
