There is something magical about being in the forest, early in the morning, when the sun rises, and the first light streaks through the canopy like a magic wand and touches some trees or leaves. This is especially beautiful at this time of year, when many of the leaves have fallen, and a few, blessed by the sun, hand on, waiting for the deep frost.

This morning, we were walking in the woods when I saw these leaves suddenly brighten, as if a spotlight had been turned upon them. And then I saw the spotlight, it was almost as if the scene had been staged by a gifted producer. And I suppose it was. The first light is special to me, not only because I am a photographer, but because i is so clear and beautiful and promising. It is the best way to begin a day.