The last traces of mist amongst pines beside a Canadian lake.

Sometimes, it’s the small, seemingly insignificant details in photography that can transform a mundane image into something captivating. One late fall morning in Algonquin Park, Canada,

I was with a group of fellow photographers who were eager to capture an Autumn sunrise. Frankly, sunrises and sunsets aren't my thing but not wanting to be a killjoy I tagged along.

As we waited for the sun to rise over the horizon, I glanced behind me—a habit of mine, because what’s behind you often holds hidden potential. Sure enough, I spotted this scene.

What made this moment worth capturing was the last whisper of mist weaving through the pines. Despite the risk of missing the sunrise, I quickly swung my camera around and snapped the shot just before the mist disappeared. As it turned out, the sunrise never materialized, shrouded by clouds.

As we trudged back for breakfast I alone had the satisfaction of knowing my early morning rise wasn’t without its rewards.