Starting early in a day of photographing in the mountains is the best way to get some great photographs. And this morning was no exception.

I got up before the sun reached this part of the mountain. I wandered down to the lake, and it was perfect. There wasn't even the faintest breeze, so the water was a perfect mirror.

The trees on the opposite shore were reflected perfectly on the lake so I started photographing. But it wasn't until the sun's first lights fell on the lake and surrounding mountains.

Now, the trees behind the hill cast their shadows over a scree slope. The shadows made a graceful arch that echoed on the lake. It was like listening to a mountain symphony, even without the sound. Hence, the title "Morning Symphony at Maroon Bells."