Fringed Hill Shadow, Colorado - OPOD

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Fringed Hill Shadow, Colorado - A Captivating Atmospheric Optics Phenomenon

The Fringed Hill Shadow is a mesmerizing atmospheric optics phenomenon that occurs when a low evening sun shines through rain clouds, casting shadows on the hills. This captivating display was captured by Ed MacKerrow in Southern Colorado near the New Mexico border. The images he captured showcase the unique fringes that echo the profile of the shadowed hill.

When sheets of falling rain are present in the vicinity of the hills, they become illuminated by the sunlight, creating a stunning visual effect. The raindrops refract light towards the camera, contributing to what is known as the zero order glow. Each individual rain sheet acts as a translucent screen, adding depth and dimension to the scene.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Fringed Hill Shadow is the formation of profiles. Drops of rain above the hill's shadow shine brightly, outlining the rim of the hill and creating a distinct profile. As the closest rain sheets intersect with the shadow lower down, a series of overlapping hill profiles emerge. These profiles appear below the actual rim of the hill, adding an element of mystery to the phenomenon.

Interestingly, if the camera were positioned closer to the hill and inside its shadow, the rain sheet-generated profiles would be above the hill. This phenomenon can also be observed with layers of mist, where misty layers create similar effects.

The Fringed Hill Shadow is a transient spectacle that demands quick reflexes from photographers. It is essential to have your optics ready and be prepared to capture this fleeting phenomenon at a moment's notice. The effect is often brief, lasting only for a short period of time before dissipating.

In some instances, a "normal" view of rain-lit sunlight filtering between the hills can be observed just moments before the Fringed Hill Shadow occurs. This stark contrast emphasizes the unique nature of this atmospheric optics phenomenon.

It is worth noting that the article mentioned above has been automatically converted from the old site and may not appear as intended. However, the original images captured by Ed MacKerrow are showcased here, offering a firsthand glimpse into the beauty of the Fringed Hill Shadow.

In conclusion, the Fringed Hill Shadow is a captivating atmospheric optics phenomenon that occurs when a low evening sun shines through rain clouds, casting shadows on the hills. The interplay between light, raindrops, and the hill's profile creates a mesmerizing display of overlapping hill profiles and fringed shadows. This transient phenomenon demands quick reflexes from photographers, as it is often short-lived. The images captured by Ed MacKerrow serve as a testament to the allure and beauty of the Fringed Hill Shadow.

Fringed Hill Shadow

A low evening sun shines here and there through rain clouds dripping fall streaks. The hills are backlit. At right the shadowed hill has peculiar fringes echoing its profile.

Imaged by Ed MacKerrow (Photography) in Southern Colorado near the New Mexico border.

All images ©Ed MacKerrow, shown with permission

Sheets of falling rain are everywhere. Near the hills they are in sunlight. The raindrops refract light towards the camera as part of the zero order glow.

Each discrete rain sheet between the hill and camera acts as a translucent screen.

Drops above the hill's shadow shine bright to form a profile of its rim.

The closest sheets intersect the shadow lower down to make a series of overlapping hill profiles. All of them below the actual hill's rim.

BUT - If the camera was closer to the hill and inside its shadow the rain sheet generated profiles would be above the hill. Layers of mist act similarly.

Catch you optics quickly, camera always at the ready.

The effect was brief. In this image, taken less than a minute earlier, we see a 'normal' view of rain lit sunlight filtering between the hills.

The fall streaks are very evident.

Note: this article has been automatically converted from the old site and may not appear as intended. You can find the original article here.

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