“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.” ~ John Muir

On Christmas Eve afternoon in Death Valley, I found myself exploring Golden Canyon. The lighting was not ideal to my tastes, but I wanted to scout this canyon very well for possible inclusion in the photography tours I will lead here in the future. As I hiked the canyon, several ancillary canyons broke off and I felt compelled to explore each one till they ended, unlike most of the people walking this trail, just trying to get to the end. Funny enough, there was this very nice couple walking 5 minutes behind me, who also felt tugged into each side canyon.

Once I would get to the end of each canyon and turn around, I continued to run into them each time, as they made their way in. Was the universe of opportunity trying to tell me something??? Upon the third time of this happening, I chose to capture them doing what they were enjoying, and then immediately showed them this lovely image, which they appreciated. I gave them my business card, wished them well again, and continued on my way.

Yesterday I sold them unlimited personal printing and usage rights on the original image, retained my copyright, and got model release forms, so that I can use this image to help promote future workshops I will lead to Death Valley next year.