Landscape photographers are students of the seasons. So often the image we see has not yet fully matured into the image it can become. Knowledge of the effects of a canopy of snow, the lush greens of summer or the golden hues of fall allows the photographer to understand that a shot must wait to offer its full impact.

Such is the case for this shot. We were at Sandy Hook for the day, with most of our attention focused on the sea birds migrating through and a pregnancy photo shoot of Jami and Justin. Finishing up, tired and dehydrated from the sea shores moisture sucking wind, I packed the knapsacks with their gear and trudged the sandy path towards firmer ground.

As we climbed over the bulkhead that separates the beach from the parking lot, I noticed the Navesink Twin Lights across the river. I was immediately captivated by the shot. The way the old building stood majestically atop the sprawl of the townships homes was captivating. I immediately began unpacking gear to frame a shot. Looking again, I realized that the barren trees were too stark, the image needs a lusher green fill. The lighting was also a bit too harsh. Such a picture needs a sunset or sunrise to bring out its true power. So I satisfied myself with this test shot, understanding that once the trees fill in towards the end of next month, I will need to get to the spot before sunrise to capture the image I see in me minds eye.

That is the wonder and beauty of landscape photography. It offers the photographer the ability to learn the land, its nuances and its timings. It requires the patience and dedication to go to your shot when it is ready, not when you are. I look forward to revisiting this picture in a couple of months. For now I will enjoy the foreshadow. I hope you do too.