Firefall

One 'firefall' photo to rule them all

By Mike Moffitt

A San Francisco photographer might have caught the best shot of this year's "firefall" at Yosemite National Park.

As many visitors to the national park know, the firefall is a once-a-year phenomenon in which, if weather conditions are right, the rays of the setting sun illuminate Horsetail Fall, making it look like a cataract of fire.

Ted Chin, who has unsuccessfully tried to shoot the firefall in previous years, told DIYPhotgraphy that he hiked 30 minutes in deep snow to the fall east of El Capitan on Friday afternoon.

"Snow was melting and wind was blowing," Chinn said. "It was one of the best things I've ever witnessed in nature. It looks like a dragon's breath with fire coming down from the mountain."

Indeed, Horsetail Fall resembled lava spilling into a chasm of fire in the depths of Mordor. All that was needed was for someone to throw the One Ring into the glowing maw.

Chin captured the shot without the benefit of his tripod, which he had forgotten to bring. But he didn't need it — the spectacle provided enough light.

He posted the photo on Instagram, tagged #nophotoshop to distinguish it from his other creations, which are often altered for surreal effects.

The firefall lasts for about two weeks every February if skies are clear enough for the sun's rays to hit the falls and if there has been enough rainfall to provide sufficient volume for the fall.

Chin offered some tips on for those who want to try their luck shooting it:

• Get there early. firefall happens around 5 p.m. Plan on finding a good location and setting up at least two or three hours before.
• Dress warmly in winter gear. You're likely going to be out in the snow for more than three hours.
• Bring a chair.
• Gloves are must, as your hands will get really cold while shooting.