Bathed in Beams

On more than one occasion, I’ve heard or read Algoma, WI has one of the most photographed lighthouses (technically a “pier light”).  I always considered it more wishful thinking than fact.  But if I just count the number of pictures I’ve personally snapped and posted, I might have misjudged.

This magical scene was captured early on a Sunday morning while on my way to church. (As the pastor, I get to the church hours before the service to prepare.) Since I always have my camera with me, it’s not unusual for me to stop near the harbor and step out to take a few photos of the lighthouse if I see something I like.

On this morning, when I stopped, it was starting to sprinkle and I didn’t want to expose my camera or suit to the rain. So, instead of jumping out, I jumped in…to the backseat of our minivan. I set my tripod and camera up, slid the side door open and snapped away, staying comfortable and dry. As the sun continued to rise and the clouds shifted, changing the angle of the beams, I had jump back to the drivers seat and move my van 3 times.

I posted a B&W photo from the same morning a few days ago, entitled Too Wonderful for Me.

Here’s a panoramic scene, taken just a few minutes later the same morning, when the sunbeams weren’t so intense.

Click on either image to see a larger version.