Morning Light in South Dakota

When I first filmed this scene, the midday light was too sharp, flattening the contrast and washing out the subtle tones of the landscape. Reviewing the footage later, I knew I had to return at dawn to do the place justice.

That morning, the light arrived slowly, spreading across still water and textured stone. Each minute brought a new balance of color, reflection, and depth. I adjusted altitude and framing with every shift, chasing those fleeting moments where the landscape felt alive in the lens.

Watch the full short with music: @studiooldcrow on YouTube.