Day 36: A Serendipitous Sunrise at Ourie Pool

The best-laid plans often go awry, and this morning was no exception. I had set my alarm with grand intentions to venture north for a sunrise shoot, but the siren call of sleep proved too strong, and I found myself waking up 40 minutes behind schedule. In a flurry of urgency, I scrambled to gather my gear and set out, deciding to pivot to a familiar sanctuary that never fails to inspire—Ourie Pool in Werri Beach.

 As I raced against the clock, the horizon was just beginning to whisper hints of the fiery display it was preparing. Driving towards the ocean, I could feel the anticipation building with every passing minute. The high tide was in full force, replenishing the pool with fresh, saline water—a sure sign that the photographic opportunities would be abundant.

 Arriving just in time, I positioned myself at the pool's edge, where the iconic handrails offered a striking contrast against the natural backdrop. There, as the cool water playfully lapped around my feet, offering relief from the previous night's oppressive heat, I knew I had found my frame.

 The sky erupted into a canvas of vibrant oranges and pinks, a stark juxtaposition to the tranquil blues of the pool. The sun, in its fiery ascent, cast a golden path across the water's surface, inviting the day to begin. I captured the moment where the oceans might met the relatively calm of the pool, the handrails standing as silent witnesses to the daily rebirth of the world.

 This morning's rush and the unexpected detour to Ourie Pool led to a moment of pure and refreshing beauty. It's these unplanned instances, when time seems to conspire against us, that often lead to the most memorable captures. Today's shot is a reminder that sometimes, the best images are not those at the end of a long journey, but those found on the most direct route—just a stone's throw from home.

 In the dance of light and water at Ourie Pool, I found a serene start to the day and another cherished experience to add to my year-long journey. Photography is not just about the destination; it's about embracing the journey, detours and all.