Antelope Canyon, Page AZ

After seeing the sun set over Horseshoe Bend, I went online to look up some Antelope Canyon photography tips.  I had read enough before leaving Ontario that it would be the most challenging venue to photograph. After reading tips and suggestions, I knew that the low light would limit the number of spectacular photos I could expect...so I hoped for at least a couple of great ones. Camera shake is the biggest challenge in low light.  And I would be limited to one lens... I would not be changing lenses due to the high level of dust in the canyon.

We started the day with another quick hike and opted to visit Horseshoe Bend again, this time in daylight.  To get this photo I had to hold the camera over the edge.  I'm not very fond of the edge!  My beloved is holding my hand.  He is the anchor allowing me to move close enough to the edge to see this spectacular sight, and he will not let me fall. Do you have someone in your life like that?  Who anchors you and holds you up?  I am so blessed!

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, one of many throughout Arizona and Utah, and one of my beloved's top 5 things to see on our trip. If you go to the link above you will see a photo of the famous "Beam". For a few minutes every day the sun passes through a spot in the top of the canyon and travels across the sandy floor.  This phenomenon occurred when we were on our way out of this canyon....I saw the beam(on top of the head of the guy in front of me....)but we were being herded through since a small group of photographers had paid extra and were set up for this coveted shot.(..and everyone was yelling at the guy to get out of the way.) THE shot requires a tripod, remote shutter release, and a good command of all your manual features. I decided ahead of time not to focus on this moment and I was okay with that.

One reviewer said it was overrated and to remember to enjoy the experience. When your expectations are set right, you are never disappointed.  You can focus so much on the one moment (which allegedly surpasses every other moment) that you forget how beautiful these rock formations are and how violent the floods must be to create them.

The acoustics are fantastic.  Our Navajo guide, Vere, brought her flute/pipe along and played a melody.   Haunting.  Lovely.
Next stop? Water Holes Canyon.  If you ever go to this area, DO go to Water Holes Canyon, across the road. It is worth the effort to find the Tribal land office in Lechee and pay $5 per person for a hiking permit.  (And do go back to tell them or telephone that you made it out!)