Lake Helene

After several days of research I decided that my main goal was to photograph Lake Helene at sunrise during my RMNP trip. There was only 1 permit available at the backcountry campsite for the time period that I would be there. I got my permit and decided to head to the campsite right after catching sunrise the day of the reservation. I got to the campsite around 10am and set up my stuff and then explored Lake Helene a bit. I took a few pictures to figure out my comp since it would be challenging to get to the lake side without light in the morning. After I was done there I figured I would continue on the trail and see some of the other lakes, but as soon as i started down to Lake Odessa a thunderstorm rolled in and I decided it would be prudent to head back to camp and sit it out. 3 hrs later and I was starting to think that leaving so early for the campsite was a big mistake.... I still had over 5 hours to go until sunset and NOTHING to do:/ I decided to go ahead and pack it up and head back to the cabin I was staying at. The next morning turned out to be an incredible sunrise and I was able to get my favorite image of the trip from a different location I regret packing it in and not shooting Helene during sunrise. This is my consolation prize and motivation to return next year and do it right:)

Canon 6D w/ 17-40 f/4L @ 17mm
Blend of 2 images(Pano)