This shot is easily one of my all-time favorites—and, honestly, I caught it completely by accident back in 2023.
Every time I’m back in Albuquerque, I keep my camera set up on a tripod and swing mount by the back door. That way, I can grab it in seconds if something incredible happens—like a fiery sunset or a hawk swooping past the Sandias. If you’ve ever seen an Albuquerque sunset, you know how unreal they can be, especially with some fresh snow.
It was Christmas Eve. Family was on their way over for dinner, and we were just wrapping up getting everything ready. I just happened to glance out the back window, and saw that the full moon had just started to rise; perfectly lined up behind the communications towers on the crest.
I sprinted to my camera, threw open the door, and framed the shot just as the moon slid behind the center tower. Click.
That very first frame became one of my all-time favorites: a fading blue sky, the Sandias glowing red (“Sandia” means “watermelon,” after all), and the full moon lifting into view.
Sure, it was a lucky shot—but I’ve learned that “luck” usually comes down to one thing: keeping your camera close and being ready when nature decides to put on a show.