February 19, 2025
Last week, we set out to capture Yosemite’s legendary Firefall—something I’ve had on my bucket list for years. On Feb 17, we arrived with perfect conditions but were too late to reach a viewpoint. The next day, we got there early—maybe too early. I set up three cameras: a Sony a7IV, an FX6, and a Wardflex medium format. Overkill? Maybe. But I wasn’t taking any chances.
 
We waited nervously. Conditions seemed off. Then, just when I thought all hope was lost—it appeared. Yellow turned to orange, and for a few minutes, fire fell. We had to go again.
 
This time, I wanted the shot: Firefall, the valley floor, and the sunset in one frame. We hiked Four Mile Trail, reaching a viewpoint above the trees where a small group of photographers had gathered. Clouds loomed ahead, It wasn’t looking good. Minutes passed, hope was diminishing. But then—suddenly—a beam of light hit the valley floor. We literally gasped.
 
The sun dropped lower, and the Firefall lit up—even brighter than the night before. With glowing clouds overhead, it was perfect. Silence filled the valley, broken only by camera shutters and whispered “wows”. An unforgettable moment, shared with incredible photographers like Kieth  Wong and Raine Sky. You can bet I’ll be back next year.

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