On an early February morning, I stood atop the Pilatus Tateshina Snow Resort in Chino, Nagano Prefecture, greeted by the clear winter sky’s embrace. The Sky Eye 2237 observation deck offered a panoramic view that stretched into the distance, where the Southern Alps, or the Akaishi Mountains, unfolded in all their splendor. The scene was graced by the prominent peaks of Kitadake, Kai Komagatake, and Senjogatake, their snow-capped majesty visible in the morning light, a familiar yet always awe-inspiring sight.
Photo Description – A Glimpse of Nature’s Grand Design
This photograph captures the serene beauty of the Southern Alps’ snow-capped peaks under the soft glow of the morning sun. The foreground features the “Shimagare” phenomenon, with stripes of dead trees amidst the snow, creating a mystical pattern against the backdrop of North Yatsugatake’s natural landscape. This blend of the stark “Shimagare” patterns and the distant alpine peaks offers a unique snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and the cyclicality of life.
Story Behind the Photo – Embracing the Alpine Canvas
This photograph marks the culmination of an eagerly anticipated journey, taken shortly after the first ropeway trip of the day. The clear skies that morning amplified my excitement, promising unparalleled views of the majestic Japanese Alps. The vista from the ropeway, leading up to this moment on the observation deck, magnified the anticipation. Capturing the grandeur of the Southern Alps, with the “Shimagare” phenomenon in the foreground, was not just a highlight of the day but a profound experience of connecting with the magnificence of nature’s artistry.
From an Amateur Photographer’s Perspective – Navigating the Early Morning Light
The challenge of capturing the Southern Alps in the backlight of the early morning was both a test and a thrill. Adjusting my approach to ensure the scene’s beauty was fully conveyed, I focused on the natural contrast and clarity. The task was to encapsulate the landscape’s vastness and the interplay of light and shadow, highlighting the majestic peaks against the sky’s canvas.
Equipment and EXIF Information
- Camera: OM Digital Solutions TG-7
- Shutter Speed: 1/400s
- Aperture: ƒ13
- ISO: ISO 400
Location