Snow on top of col de la bonette

September has been so busy here I couldn't even find the time to get out and shoot, document, write and bring something new on this blog. Well, sort of. I could have put a few shots here and there but, nothing serious. They say you should keep silent if you have nothing to say. I second that.

But today brings the silence to an end. I have been moving around quite a lot yesterday, visiting Vallée de la Vésubie. Lots of kilometers, great things to see, but it was pouring rain all over the place. Even had lunch in the car! But it was fabulous anyways. A lot of fun, laughs and great moments just thinking and analyzing. Perfect for a family get away and this time with 2 new crew members: Luna and Lili, our female Golden Retriever dogs.

So after spending most of the afternoon near Parc Boréon (no wolves to be seen), we decided to go back through Valdeblore and then in St-Étienne-de-Tinée, a place we really love. Of course I wanted to push up to Col de la Bonette, my favorite place. And for one very good reason this time: I saw some snow up there from the distance and the sky was clearing out slowly. 1+1 = 2 : I HAD to be there when the sun rays hit the mountains covered with light snow. While I was the only one really wishing to go there, every body finally enjoyed what we saw and found on la Cime : WINTER!

When we left home earlier, the temperature was around 22 degrees. At the top of the mountain we got a tiny little 3 degrees. And phenomenal vistas as the sun was moving behind the mountains in the distance. I kept shooting for a little while, trying to capture as much as I could, always wondering if I was missing something, somewhere. So I moved a lot and managed to take shots in all directions. When you're at the top of a mountain, you can see all around. I knew some shots would be best in black & white, and others where just screaming for colors. So I decided to have a mix of both and I'm glad I did.

Something I will remember from this moment: considering the elements and keep moving is a must if you want to be at the right place at the right time. It's well worth the efforts. Today I find myself with pictures of great contrast in weather, color and temperature. All in all it's been a great and profitable day outside.

You can find the whole picture set on my website at www.normandprimeauphoto.com

p.s. : Dogs are not allowed at the heart of most national parks. Lili & Luna stayed in the car with us, or looking at us through the window when we were outside watching and shooting the vistas.

Good Light!

Norm

© Normand Primeau