Rhône Glacier
Perched high in the Swiss Alps near the Furka Pass, this ancient glacier is one of Switzerland's most dramatic natural subjects, a sweeping mass of blue-tinged ice that spills down from the peaks and forms the headwaters of the Rhône River. You can shoot from the road above for a wide establishing view, or descend closer to the ice face for abstract details in the layered blue crevasses and textured surface. A wide-angle lens works well to capture the full scale of the glacier against the surrounding peaks, while a telephoto lets you compress the layers of ice and rock for more graphic compositions. Overcast days are ideal, softening harsh alpine contrast and bringing out the deep blues in the ice; early morning visits also help you avoid tour groups. The access road from Furka Pass is well paved and parking is straightforward. (Obergoms, Canton of Valais, Switzerland)
