On the night of May 10, 2024, an unforgettable gift from nature unfolded as I celebrated my birthday in Sinaloa, Mexico. I bore witness to a celestial spectacle: the dancing auroras borealis in the night sky at low latitudes.
The day began with the promise of a quiet dinner at home, but surprise came with the news of a solar storm that would paint the sky with spectacular lights and colors. Reports of auroras extended from the poles to latitudes as low as ours, at 24ºN.
Faced with the prospect of witnessing this unique phenomenon, I made a spontaneous decision: to exchange dinner for a photographic adventure. I convinced a photographer friend to join me, and before I knew it, we were on our way to the Sanalona Dam, about 30 miles East of my home.
As the night fell, a spectacle of colors unfolded before us. The sky was tinted with pink and reddish hues, while the auroras danced in a display of lights and shadows. It was a surreal scene, a work of art created by nature itself.
Through the lens of my camera, I captured every moment of this celestial phenomenon. The resulting images were more than photographs; they were witnesses to a unique moment in time, an experience that would transcend borders and be appreciated by millions around the world.
This night taught me a valuable lesson: the importance of being prepared for the unexpected and seizing every opportunity life presents us. While it's possible I may never witness an event like this again, the photographs I took that night will serve as an eternal reminder of the beauty and magic we can find in the most unexpected places.
## About this photo
This photography is a panorama made by two panels produced by stacking 500+ photos on each side.
I made the stack per panel and then blent both panels in photoshop.
I made the creative decision to mirror the sky on the lake using Photoshop because I noticed I could do this panorama after I did the individual circumpolar shots and noticed I could blend a couple of them in a Panorama, however, both panels have different foregrounds, hence the creative liberty. The good news is, I now know that I can do circumpolar panoramas and I am definitely gonna try that technique again in the future.
## About me
Alfredo Juarez, a renowned photographer, first gained recognition through his captivating Astro photography work in Sinaloa. His celestial masterpieces have graced exhibitions across four countries and adorned the pages of prestigious magazines and newspapers. However, this year, as he delved into storm chasing, he discovered a new calling, a profound mission that could become his lasting legacy.
In the heart of Sinaloa, where the most powerful storms ever recorded brew, Alfredo found his purpose—to use his storm chasing art as a catalyst for change. He recognizes the critical need for more weather stations to gather crucial data for accurate forecasts and, ultimately, to save lives. With unwavering dedication, Alfredo aims to be the one who fully documents the raw power of the Sinaloan Monsoon and uses his art to raise awareness for this pressing matter.
Alfredo's career is a kaleidoscope of passions, from being an art and sunset enthusiast to an accomplished Astro photographer with international acclaim. Now, as a storm chaser about to showcase his art, he embarks on a journey to inspire others through his lens, leaving an indelible mark not only on the art world but also on the lives he can potentially save.
License
Extended Editorial License: Can be used to display privately, or in commercial and non-commercial settings, or in groups with an unlimited number of participants. The License includes unlimited use and display in virtual or physical galleries, documentaries, and essays by the NFT holder. Provides no rights to create commercial merchandise.
