Dream Lake

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Some shots are hard-earned. This one? It came with wet socks and frozen toes — just not my own.

It was winter in the Rockies, and Dream Lake had transformed into a sculpture of snow and frozen ripples. The clouds were moving perfectly overhead — the kind that promised something dramatic if I could just wait for the light.

But I wasn’t alone. I had my son with me.

And here’s the thing: I usually scout locations, come back better prepared. But I knew in my gut — this was the moment. The scene was lining up perfectly, and I just needed to wait for the sun to drop behind the mountains.

One problem: his shoes were soaked.

He was shivering, not ready for a long winter sit.

So I gave him mine. Swapped out my dry, warm boots for his cold, soaked ones — just so he could stay warm while we waited it out. We sat there together in silence, feet frozen but hearts full, watching the last light fall across the frozen lake.

When the glow finally hit the ridges, I captured the scene — careful to line up the ripple path between the rocks to draw the eye through the frame. A frozen trail leading straight into wonder.

It’s more than a photo.

It’s a memory of trust, teamwork, and a quiet bond between father and son — built not in the sunshine, but in the cold stillness of a winter afternoon.

I hope it brings that sense of connection and quiet magic into your space.