Leaving Lake Tahoe, there were signs of a previous forest fire, and I hoped to find a scene where I could capture the burnt ground. But with the twisting mountain roads and undulating landscape, I couldn’t see anywhere to stop. I had almost given up when, coming around a bend, I spotted a patch of flat land and a place to pull over. Cue a sudden brake and cars behind me hooting and gesturing.

My son and I grabbed the camera gear and started walking to find the right spot. We’re not snow people mind you, I’ve only seen snow maybe four times in my life. Soon we were knee-deep and struggling, but we got the shot! By the time we clambered back to the car, our cotton pants and canvas sneakers were soaked, making for an uncomfortable day, but I knew I’d be happy with the photograph I managed to get.