Total Eclipse of the Sun

April 8th, 2024

Simply there are no words that describe Totality and prepare you to experience it. No matter how many videos you watch, how many posts you read, and how many hours and hours of practice you do, nothing, absolutely nothing prepares you to live and work through the totality of a Solar Eclipse.

Moments before totality, birds fly by in erratic patterns, the cacophony of nature feels more present than usual, and heartbeats increase a thousandfold.

Remember, Alfredo, run for the first camera, remove the filter, decrease the exposure by 5 stops, and then move to the second camera, remove the filter, set up bracketing, and then proceed to the third one, remove the filter, frame, and shoot, then return to the second because it will require the most attention.

Haha, yeah sure, of course, I thought I could do all that in 4 minutes. Yes, 4 minutes that turned into 10 seconds, because as soon as the sky darkened, we froze completely, nature fell in total silence, the birds disappeared from the sky, and in a moment of lucidity, I managed to shout: "THE FILTERS!"

I ran to the first camera, my clumsy hands trembled, removed the filter, adjusted settings and hit the shutter button, it took me more than planned which led me to drop the third camera project and focus specifically on the main one –– the portrait shot at 600mm.

This photo freeze in time the epic experience that is living through a total solar eclipse. Collecting them and hang it in your home or office will be the catalyst for hundreds of interesting conversations.

If you had the opportunity to experience totality, every time you see this photo, you will close your eyes and relive that magical moment, and it will be beautiful. If you did not have the opportunity to experience it, looking at this photograph will transport you to that moment.

This photograph, now a part of my "Once in a Lifetime" collection, serves as a gentle reminder: Marvels are everywhere. They might not always come wrapped in the package we expect, but they are there, waiting to be discovered, cherished, and immortalized. Let "Under the umbra" inspire you to embrace the unexpected, to find beauty in every twist of fate, and to remember that life's greatest performances sometimes happen right in our backyard.

May this piece serve as a beacon, urging us all to look up, to dream, and to realize that the world is brimming with wonders, with cosmic ballets that dance in the silence of the universe, beckoning us to join in their eternal waltz.

About me

Alfredo Juarez, a renowned photographer, first gained recognition through his captivating Astro photography work in Sinaloa. His celestial masterpieces have graced exhibitions across four countries and adorned the pages of prestigious magazines and newspapers. However, this year, as he delved into storm chasing, he discovered a new calling, a profound mission that could become his lasting legacy.

In the heart of Sinaloa, where the most powerful storms ever recorded brew, Alfredo found his purpose—to use his storm chasing art as a catalyst for change. He recognizes the critical need for more weather stations to gather crucial data for accurate forecasts and, ultimately, to save lives. With unwavering dedication, Alfredo aims to be the one who fully documents the raw power of the Sinaloan Monsoon and uses his art to raise awareness for this pressing matter.

Alfredo's career is a kaleidoscope of passions, from being an art and sunset enthusiast to an accomplished Astro photographer with international acclaim. Now, as a storm chaser about to showcase his art, he embarks on a journey to inspire others through his lens, leaving an indelible mark not only on the art world but also on the lives he can potentially save.

License

Extended Editorial License: Can be used to display privately, or in commercial and non-commercial settings, or in groups with an unlimited number of participants. The License includes unlimited use and display in virtual or physical galleries, documentaries, and essays by the NFT holder. Provides no rights to create commercial merchandise.