This image was captured during my most recent photography workshop on the Moray Coast of Scotland while photographing the sunset at Hopeman Bay. Well, when I say photographing the sunset, I really mean the fleeting two minutes of sunshine that broke through a gap in the clouds.
I was guiding one of the workshop participants, discussing potential compositions and exchanging ideas. Once we had settled on an approach, I stepped back to allow her to focus and capture the scene in her own way. As I started walking towards another participant, the sun suddenly broke through, bathing the entire bay in a stunning, golden glow.
I looked around and saw all my participants eagerly trying to seize the moment, each framing their own interpretation of the landscape. I did not want to interrupt them—besides, with such a brief window of light, any distraction could have caused them to miss the shot.
At that moment, I noticed the way the light illuminated a small rock in the foreground. It was an ideal scene for my style of composition, but I had only seconds to act. A mad rush followed—setting up my tripod, adjusting my camera settings, and composing the image before the light vanished. Fortunately, I managed to capture the moment, and so did my participants.
Light, however brief, is always a gift. Even if it lasts only a few minutes, it has the power to transform a scene and create something truly special.