Avignon, Provence France.

I’ve stood in this very spot along River Rhone overlooking the medieval town of Avignon at least a dozen times – normally bringing one of my photo tours here at dawn. For some reason it always turns out to be a successful morning. I don’t know if it’s the simplicity of the lines, the soft river and trees juxtaposed against the hard stone bridge, or maybe the amazing history of this area. Whatever the case, it’s a great little town to photograph.

Arriving typically 45 minutes prior to sunrise, I have my choice of vantage points all along the mile long river walk. The occasional jogger/walker will pass by (I always smile and say hi – it freaks out the locals!).

Pre-dawn lighting is very blue in color and the resulting photos can be very moody and atmospheric. Over the next few minutes the color and quality of the lighting will change dramatically. As the sun begins to creep up, the colors intensify and become much warmer. At that point you have about 20 minutes to make your photo. After that, the sunlight on the bridge becomes extremely bright and you’ve lost the moment…

I’m sure I will continue to bring my tours here – not only is it a nice photo op, but there’s so many lessons to be taught here.

Sunrise over Pont Saint Benezet, Palais des Papes, and the medieval town of Avignon, Provence France