For our holidays on the isle of Madeira I researched some photo locations to shoot. Ribeira de Janela with its unique rock formation at the north coast seemed to be very promising.

On-site for scouting around noon it was already beautiful. Crushing waves, a fascinating rocky silhouette and large dark pebbles at the beach formed a magnificent scenery.

When I returned to Ribeira de Janela the next morning before sunrise I had to face some troubles crossing a small stream to get to the best spot. I slipped on the wet rocks and got wet feet but fortunately nothing worse.

Maybe it was a good omen for my shooting. The sky literally exploded. The sun rised spectacular between the peaks. I found a brighter stone among the dark ones and used it as a foreground element in a vertical orientation.

I didn't dare to step closer to the shore because of the massive six feet waves. So I stayed at a safe place trying a long exposure with my new rectangular filters.

This shot was my favorite of Madeira and probably the whole year