Sweet Light Photos

It's all about the Light

Christmas Lights on the Waterfront

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Capturing the colorful Christmas Lights on the Waterfront

There aren’t many lakes in Arizona, at least not many with water in them.  The city planners in Tempe (just south of Scottsdale) decided a real lake was needed. So, they made a lake. Doubling as a reservoir the 225 acre lake is lined with walking and bike paths and just beyond are numerous businesses. As photographers, this opens the door for all sorts of photographic opportunities. The foremost is reflections.

I have been eager to shoot the waterfront on Tempe Town Lake. The seasonal addition of green and red lights made it the perfect time. With the added bonus of an early sunset, we need not stay up late to capture amazing photos. Thus, there are no excuses.

Yet, I still had to drag Jeff away from the Ranger game and his bottle of scotch. We packed up the car and headed out into the cold dark night. Those of you from Arizona know it can get cold.  Little did we know, despite the dark hour, there was life along the waterfront.  I expected a an evening jogger or maybe a dog walker, but little did I realize there would be fishermen lining the edge every 100 feet or so. Catch of the day: Catfish!

Who would have thought there would be a catfishing subculture at Tempe Lake?
Who would have thought there would be a catfishing subculture at Tempe Lake?

 And behind us, cyclists, one group exceeding 50 in number with their bikes decorated and all aglow.

Dozens of Cyclists ride by at Tempe Town Lake
Dozens of Cyclists ride behind us on the path at Tempe Town Lake
 I was amazed at the variety of colored lights. Bridges, buildings and bows, we captured it all.
The lights sparkled in the water and on the bridge making for a surreal feel.
The lights sparkled in the water and on the bridge making for a surreal feel.
I liked the blue lights next to the bridge
I liked the blue lights and their contrast next to the bridge
Bridge lights reflecting in the lake
Three bridges with their lights creating abstract patterns in the water. The colored lights under  are from the bridge with the light rail train.
Green, red and blue lights - light up the water.
Green, red and blue lights – light up the water.
Tempe Town Lake at Christmas time
Walking back to the car, I had to stop for just one more shot.

Enjoy your holiday and remember it’s all about the light!

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