On a warm day in late January, the dependable St. Joseph Lighthouse fights off an enveloping bank of mist to provide a safety beacon.

Several photographic techniques were used in this photo. First, I selected a distance from the light so that it seemed to be at the limits of visibility. Secondly, the catwalk and the right edge of the pier create two leading lines which draw the eye to the lighthouse. Third, I went to one knee to lower the camera angle and steady the camera in the dim light. The fourth technique was to take photographic advantage of unusual weather. The warm air and cold lake water made it seem like a nasty, misty day. On the other hand, there weren’t any people to clutter the image. Also, this view of the light is facing east - and in clear weather, the visual clutter of the harbor would have detracted from the emphasis of the lighthouse. Wear appropriate clothing and protect your camera gear - you just might find a gem of a photo waiting for you.