Crepuscular Rays and Silver Linings

August 15, 2014

Crepuscular rays

Photographer: Christine Churchill
Summary Authors: Christine Churchill; Jim Foster

The photo above shows a glorious sunset observed from Sonoma Valley in northern California. It was snapped shortly before sunset on July 15, 2014. The foreground of stratocumulus clouds, decorated with silver linings, was enhanced by crepuscular rays emanating from clouds closer to the horizon (not seen here). We usually take notice of sunsets because clouds, aerosols or dust scatter sunlight; on occasion resulting in vibrant colors and interesting shadows. On this midsummer’s eve, the play of light and shadow made the western horizon come alive.

Photo details: Sony A55 camera; f/9; shutter 1/500 sec. exposure; ISO 200; lens 55 to 300 (90 mm); taken at 8:15 p.m. Sunset was 8:34.