Shiprock, NM – 2012
Often when I am traveling, I will see something that will make for a compelling image but the conditions are not quite right. I have developed a habit of filing the potential photo opportunities into my iPhone for a possible return in the future. Shiprock was one of these. I have been though this area many times, but the light was never quite right for the images I wanted to make of this remarkable landmark.
The Shiprock volcanic geological formation is located in Four Corners, NM. The peak is about 1700 feet (482 meters) above the surrounding plains, though originally the structure was 2500-3000 feet (750-1000 meters) in height. Erosion has left us with what we see today, which is the frozen lava core of the volcanic structure. Also interesting are the wings or ‘dikes’ that radiate to the south of the central peak which are also volcanic rock frozen in time.
The Navajo call this formation Tsé Bitʼaʼí, “rock with wings” or “winged rock”. It has deep cultural significance to the Navajo people. Since these images were made in 2012, all areas of the formation are off limits to the general public. Though I have heard you can photograph the structure from three miles away, which is approximately where I made these images from.
27 million year old geological ‘wings’ of frozen lava
I knew I wanted to photograph this structure in the late afternoon as the sun was setting. That day I travelled from Kenab, UT and spent some time shooting in Monument Valley timing myself to arrive here about two hours before sunset.
Thunderstorms building to the east
As I arrived at Shiprock, thunderstorms began to build on the open plains to the east and they were moving towards where I was. This could be either really good, or really bad. Turns out it was really good. The thunderstorms pushed some interesting clouds westward which in turn were being lit by the sun as it set.
Cloud formations pushed in by the approaching thunderstorms
After the sun set, the storms moved in and I was pelted with hail and heavy rains on my way to Farmington, NM for the night. BTW, when in Farmington, I highly recommend the Three Rivers Restaurant and Brewery, which was the perfect way I ended this remarkable photographic day.
#shiprock