Justin Balog

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The Clear Creek Canyon fire seen from the summit of Lookout Mtn.

An annoying alarm pays off at the Broadmoor hotel.

Denver's Light Rail races for home.

Today I decided to take a break and just dream......

From my series, 'Lessons In The Sand' where I explore the creative possibilities of iconic places and have fun at the same time.

A couple weeks back I planned a photographic adventure to one of the more remote locations along the northern rim of the Grand Canyon, Toroweap (aka Tuweep). It is a long, difficult approach. After 3 hours of navigating the high desert dirt roads, and a few miles of somewhat technical terrain, we were greeted with the vistas we had read about. The place was magical in so many ways. I had never been to the Grand Canyon, and I was taken back by the expansive layers of shapes and tones. There aren’t many places like this in the world. Places where you listen to the rhythm of the rushing water 3000 ft below you as you enjoy a sunset that tops your list of beautiful sunsets. I

If this isn’t what it’s all about, I don’t know what is? Everyone has moments in their life that they know they will never forget. If we’re lucky, we will have a many of them. Those moments when your mind becomes still, your body is in rhythm with the world, and there isn’t a place you would rather be. This was one of those moments. After waking up early to greet the sunrise over the Grand Canyon, I began making photos at a few of the locations I had scouted out the night before. My wife, Shauna, joined me on the overlook at Toroweap, and to my surprise brought me a fresh cup of coffee. After making another image, I looked up to see her sitting there, taking in all this beautiful world had to offer. I couldn’t pass the image up, but after I made it, I set the camera down and joined her. I wouldn’t have traded that moment for anything.

Hey, this photo is © Justin Balog