It was a long day. We had been up since just after 4 am. We spent all day driving and hiking. We had kept a schedule similar to this for a number of day; it began to take its toll on our bodies. We were tired. We had a few hours free just before sunset. Everyone in our party took a nap; who can blame them. I really wanted to also take a nap but I just could not. My hesitancy was not because I could not fall asleep, in fact, I am sure had I only tried I would have slept like a baby. I could not go to sleep because I anticipated a good shooting opportunity.

          Others in the group started talking about napping as we drove to our accommodations. However, photographers are always looking at the sky, looking at the sun (not directly into it), always looking at the clouds and to our surroundings. Photographers need to develop the ability to forecast good shooting opportunities. We need to be able to anticipate when things are looking good for photography.

I stayed up, grabbed my gear and went walking. Just after sunset I grabbed this image. So what do we look for specifically to anticipate a good photographic opportunity coming our way?

• Storms and rain (not being socked in) are usually exciting times for photographers

• Clouds (not being socked in) everywhere except where the sun is setting; where it is better to be a bit clearer

• Detail in the clouds

• High cirrus clouds often light up

• Clouds forming lines and or nice formations

Always look around, assess the light, examine the clouds to help you better anticipate what it is going to be like at and just after sunset.