A beautiful sunset

Nature often provides beauty that surprises and delights us. This monochromatic picture is simple yet majestic. I was lucky enough to capture this image Oct. 13 at the end of a stormy day at Duck Creek Conservation Area a few miles north of Puxico, Missouri.

The sun had just disappeared behind the distant treeline. Reflected light from the sky onto the lake adds the drama needed to make this a good photograph.

I adjusted the camera settings to allow enough light to enter the camera as I took this time-exposure without the use of a tripod.

Focusing on the middle-distance cypress trees, I triggered the shutter release button and held it down while counting to 10. Then I gently zoomed the lens all the way out. capturing the rays of light.

Changing light conditions during late evening and early morning prevents this method of photography from being an exact science. Camera settings must be constantly changed as the light fades or increases in intensity.