The Mittens-Dawn (View Larger)

We arose at 3:30AM packed up our gear and headed toward the parking

lot of the Visitors Center. It would be a long wait for the break of

dawn but we knew it would be crowded with other photographers and we

wanted to stake our claim on the primo spots. Already other

photographers and hikers were gathering around us. Also present were

the pack of dogs that worked the tourists for scraps of food. These

dogs were real pros at looking cute, pitiful and getting handouts. I

couldn't help but think of the dog that chase me all through this area

when I was here 15 years ago. He ran after the car and surely burned

more calories than he ever got from the food I gave him. I'll bet all

these dogs were descendents of his and all were taught his trade. I

wanted to pet these creatures and give them some love but they looked

to be full of ticks and fleas, so I held back. I took this photograph

about 15 minutes before sunrise and it consists of six exposures.

Leo, A fine photograph and a terrific story!  Thanks for the view!  Cheers, Doug.

Thanks Doug, I do appreciate your kind words.

one more fantastic shot on a great trip.  couldn't believe that dog wouldn't eat the apple we gave him!  Great story by the way...Ray

Thank you Ray, it was an excellent trip, our best to date for the quality of our photographs. I ready for another any time!