Liquid Gold

Canon EOS 5D; Canon EF 70-200mm @ 200mm; Gitzo tripod; RRS BH-55; RAW capture: f/16 @ 1/5 sec, +1 EV, ISO 100; Auto exposure, TV mode; Partial metering; Manual WB

East Bishop Creek Canyon holds vast, thick groves of aspen trees (Populus tremuloides). Since aspen groves are clones, they all change color simultaneously in the Fall. The result is fantastic expanses of canyonsides covered in rich hues of yellow and orange, as if the countryside is aflame. The reflections of the trees on the water, just after sunrise yet prior to direct sunlight hitting the creek, creates an appearance much like molten gold.