Great Sand Dunes National Park - Photography on the Canon R6 and Leica Q2
It’s hard to image someone living in Colorado and never visiting the Sand Dunes. Located about 2 hours from Pueblo, Colorado, the Sand Dunes are one of the most unique places you would never expect to see in the state of Colorado.
On this trip we got here before sunrise an were hoping to capture some astro photography. Of course, nature had other plans for us and the stars were not great to see as there was too much light pollution from the moon. Better planning on our part is needed in the future.
After about 1 hour the sun began to rise and we were greeted with this amazing image above. Previously I had my Canon R6 mounted on a tripod, but this was an easy photo. I know the Canon like the back of my hand. It is our primary camera. I decided to put this camera away and experience this epic sunrise with the Leica Q2. A camera that on paper is not as great as the R6 in some ways and completely in a league of its own on another.
FYI, I am really glad I went with the Leica for these shots. As the sun began to peak over the mountain tops this amazing streak of light crossed over the valley unlike anything I had seen before.
Similar to the last shot I found this log sticking out of the halfway frozen water. At certain angles it almost looked like a dragon sticking out of the water. Different and unique and I never saw another photographer capture this same shot the entire time I was there.
It’s easy to look up while you are here and capture beautiful images in all directions. This is easy. Sometimes you have to look down to see something different. The land is ever changing at the Sand Dunes. You can literally watch the ground change under your feet in a matter of moments.
Of course, looking up does provide its advantages as well. Again, if you have not been to the Great Sand Dunes or if it has been a little while since you were last there you need to do yourself a favor and head back. If you are in the Pueblo area, you need to plan a day trip due to the distance. Bring snacks and drinks, plenty of sunscreen and a positive attitude. Oh and maybe some water shoes or sandals… And a camera. Yeah, that should cover it for you.
