This was taken this spring at The John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Section.
The sun had just come up throwing real long and dark shadows, while at the same time illuminating the tops of the ridges.
This captures the special clarity of western light extremely well. Tough lighting situation with shadowed foreground, main subject in slanting sun and several levels of brightness in the clouds. But you got the exposure just right...which enhances the drama in the main subject. Very nice shot.
Wow Michael..it looks as thought he hills have a blanket over them! What a wonderful capture of that magical moment when the sun casts first light! Good job. Thank you :)