It takes quite a sunset to upstage the Devil’s Doorway, but here we are.
The iconic formation of 1.6 billion-year-old quartzite perched above Devil’s Lake is visible in this photo – the Big Picture in our August issue – but photographer Greg Larson knew that colorful sky, streaked in tendrils of clouds, was the best thing in this picture.
The Madison-based photographer talked with us about this photo, that unusually quiet Friday evening a few years ago in Wisconsin’s busiest state park, and his photography.
Check out the MilMag Mini!
What is your favorite thing about this photo? What “makes” it?
The colors of the sky really make this photo. The conditions were near perfect with just the right amount of clouds to really make the sky ignite.
Those colors really are something. I know a lot can be done in post-production; how similar is this to what you saw that evening? (Or is this a sunrise?)
I recall this sunset being quite vivid with interesting clouds. Color plays a large role for me in my photography. While I try to replicate what I saw with my eyes, there is often a touch of creative liberty used to make the colors really pop – hopefully without going too far.
What’s the specific vantage point of Devil’s Lake we’re seeing here?
This is my favorite spot at Devil’s Lake. It is at Devil’s Doorway on the East Bluff area of the park. It’s a location I find myself going back to time and time again, especially in the fall. I try to go during the week, if possible, to avoid crowds. This particular shot was from a Friday evening that I remember being unusually quiet there. I had the location to myself for most of the sunset, with just a person or two showing up briefly. Sitting up on the bluff overlooking the lake and waiting for the light is incredibly peaceful and relaxing.
Tell us a little about yourself as a photographer.
By day I am a professional commercial photographer based in Madison. I photograph products, people, fashion, food and other things like that. Landscape and travel photography is what I do to feed my soul and serve as a creative outlet. You can find my work on Instagram @MrPhotar or on my website, glarsonphoto.com.
