The Auer family of Arizona made their first ever visit to the Lake Michigan shoreline earlier this month. To commemorate their vacation they chose to invest in a family photograph on the Ludington beach. Mother Nature had other plans. The number one rule of outdoor photography is the weather is the boss. We arrived just before 8 p.m. with some very dark clouds in the northwest and sounds of thunder. The family quickly got into position and we managed to take a couple of pictures just before the rain came pouring down. Since the clouds were moving southeast, we decided to take the chance of heading south to the next beach, about 8 miles away. When we got there the rain had not yet arrived. We managed to get a couple of pictures at that location as well until the lighting conditions got too dark. We all had a great time though and hopefully gave the family some great memories.
I have to admit, my patience is wearing thin on the cold, rainy/snowy weather we are having in mid-April here in northwestern Michigan. In late March, I can accept it, but I am ready for 50- to 60-degree days. However, as a photographer I appreciate dramatic weather. Sunday’s high winds looked like there was a chance of some drama along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. So, I decided to head up to Manistee to check out what Lake Michigan was doing there. As sunset got closer, the clouds went away (photographers like clouds, they are our friends). I was with my friend/mentor Ron. We drove to First Street beach first and then to Fifth Avenue beach on the north side of Manistee. We almost didn’t get out of the car, because there was no drama. But, a few moments before sunset, we decided we’d give it a try anyway. I actually was pleased with the colors of this sunset which had the character of a summer sunset with a little wave action.