Capturing a Sunrise on Beaver Lake: An Editorial Photography Experience

This summer, I had the pleasure of photographing a stunning home on Beaver Lake for AY Magazine. In preparation for the shoot, I spoke with the homeowners and learned that one of their favorite activities was sitting on their porch early in the morning to watch the sunrise. Naturally, we decided to start the shoot before dawn to capture this cherished moment. Although it was an early start, the results were well worth it.

The morning was clear, which created a beautiful orange sky that reflected off the slate floor, making for a striking photo. While a few clouds would have added extra depth to the sky, I was still pleased with the way the light played through the scene. The clear sky also made color correction in post-production a bit of a challenge, but it was a minor trade-off for the stunning shot.

Inside the home, the natural materials and large windows allowed for beautiful light, and I was fortunate that the day was overcast. This helped balance the interior lighting and create soft, even exposure. However, when the sun peeked out, it provided just the right contrast for the dining room and the intricate leaf tiles on the backsplash.

The homeowners were incredibly gracious, offering coffee and even taking us out on their boat for a shot of the house from the water. This experience reminded me of why I love editorial photography—every job presents new challenges and creative opportunities. No two shoots are ever the same, and that’s what keeps me inspired and excited about the work I do.