Grotto Geyser

Grotto Geyser is one of Yellowstone's most visually distinctive thermal features, its cone built up over centuries into a twisted, cave-like rock formation that looks unlike anything else in the Upper Geyser Basin. The gnarled silica crust surrounding the vent makes for compelling close-up compositions even when the geyser is dormant, and eruptions, which can last anywhere from one to more than ten hours, send steam and water through the contorted openings in dramatic bursts. Shoot low and wide to emphasize the alien texture of the cone against the sky, or use a longer lens to isolate the steam column rising from within the formation. Early morning light adds warm tones to the silica surface and backlit steam catches beautifully in golden hour conditions. The boardwalk along Firehole River keeps you at a safe and practical shooting distance; a 24-70mm lens covers most compositions well here. (Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, United States)