You read about the Cliffs of Moher. You see photographs. You anticipate being there. But nothing prepares you for what you’re about to experience. I left my hotel in Lahinch about 11:30 thinking this would be the best time to avoid any early morning weather problems but when I arrived I was faced with the near zero visibility. Yes, that’s right. Anticipate seeing such a beautiful place and you can barely see five feet in front of you!
Of course, I’ve been known to be stubborn and patient – something you have to be as a photographer – so I waited. I knew Mother Nature would not let me down. I walked along the path and photographed in the fog which led to some beautiful photographs. I enjoyed the limited views, the silence, the sound of the birds and the ocean in the distance – neither of which you could actually see.
Then, suddenly, the sky opened up. It was stunning! I took it all in. Snapped a few photographs. Walked some more. Enjoyed the views some more. Walked some more. Different angles. Different perspectives. All beautiful. Such majesty. Such beauty. Such danger.
I was mesmerized by the sheer ruggedness and couldn’t help but think of about those that found this place in less than ideal situations. I wondered about those that try to lower themselves to some of the plateaus to observe the birds.
I loved it and snapped a few photographs. The more I travel, the more I just soak in what is in front of me instead of holding a camera in front of my face. I find it is much more beautiful that way – and I just take a few photographs as a memory.
Then, just as sudden as it had cleared up, the fog rolled back in and the show was over.