Photographing Yosemite’s Firefall

Nature Photography  •  Photography Tips

Every February, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists gather in Yosemite National Park for a truly magical phenomenon – the Firefall. During this two-week period, if the conditions are right, a waterfall appears to flow like molten lava as the sun sets, casting a fiery glow upon El Capitan’s face. Photographer Chris Brockhurst embarked on a journey to capture this breathtaking event, and in this video, we will follow his adventure, learning about the challenges and triumphs along the way:

Capturing the Firefall requires careful planning and a bit of luck. Weather conditions, permits, and timing all play a crucial role in determining whether a trip will be successful. Chris and his team decided to try their luck at two different vantage points – the popular El Capitan Picnic Area and the more challenging Four Mile Trail. Armed with permits and equipment, they set off on their journey, eager to witness the mesmerizing event.

The Unexpected Challenges

The team faced numerous challenges, from navigating an electric vehicle with limited charging options to discovering that their preferred vantage point, the Four Mile Trail, was closed. Undeterred, they decided to settle for the more popular El Capitan Picnic Area, where they would join the throngs of other photographers vying for the perfect shot.

The Moment of Truth

As the sun began to set, anticipation grew among the crowd of photographers. The waterfall began to glow, turning a fiery red as the sunlight hit it at just the right angle. Chris and his team captured the breathtaking event, but they couldn’t help but feel that they could have achieved a better angle had they been able to access the Four Mile Trail.

The Journey Is the Cake

Despite the challenges and the desire for a different angle, Chris and his team were grateful for the opportunity to capture the Firefall. They realized that the journey itself was the real reward, and the stunning photograph of the glowing waterfall was simply the icing on the cake.

Yosemite’s Firefall is a remarkable natural phenomenon that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Chris Brockhurst’s adventure serves as a reminder that, while capturing the perfect shot is an incredible feat, the journey and the memories created along the way are just as valuable.