About This Image
Location: Ridgway, CO
Fall in Colorado quickly became one of my favorite times to photograph early in my career. The golden aspens, the crisp mountain air, and those jagged peaks dusted with snow—it all feels like magic. This particular image had been living in my head for a long time. I knew the spot, I just needed the right moment to bring it to life.
When the forecast called for an overnight snowstorm, I loaded up my gear and headed into the mountains. The storm came in fast, blanketing the landscape in fresh snow. I barely slept. The wind whipped through the trees and rattled my van, but I was too excited to care.
Long before sunrise, I was moving—navigating in the dark, my headlamp bouncing off frost-covered ground. I made my way toward a winding river I had scouted weeks before, unsure of what I’d find. What I didn’t expect was a small beaver dam that had formed overnight, creating a perfect mirror-like pool in the water.
The scene was quiet and surreal. I crouched low to the water’s edge, balancing in a way only desperation and determination can create. One slip, and I’d be soaked. But the light was coming fast, and I had to act.
Just as the sun began to rise, it broke through the clouds and painted the peaks in golden light. I pressed the shutter—right as the reflection settled into stillness.
That moment became “Break of Dawn”—a peaceful, powerful reminder that some of the best things happen when we push through the storm and show up in the dark.
And yes—I got the shot. And no—I didn’t fall in.
Production Timelines
Open Edition Paper & Canvas Prints
Production Time: 2–3 business days
Shipping Time: 3–5 business days
Estimated Arrival: Approximately 10 business days from the time of your order
Limited Edition Metal Prints
Production Time: 10-12 business days
Shipping Time: 2–5 business days
Estimated Arrival: Approximately 14 business days from the time of your order
Limited Edition vs Open Edition
Our Limited Edition prints are produced using a unique, high-resolution printing process that captures maximum detail, depth, and color accuracy—far superior to traditional methods used for open edition prints. Each piece is hand-signed and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its rarity and value.
Open Edition prints, while still high-quality, do not have a set production limit and are printed using traditional methods. They are a great way to enjoy Riley Clark’s work at a more accessible price, but they do not carry the same exclusivity or premium detail as the museum-quality Limited Editions.
More information about the materials can be seen below.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size Art
🖼 Bigger is (usually) better
If you’re hanging above a sofa, bed, or fireplace, aim for a print that’s around 60–75% of the furniture’s width. It’ll feel more balanced and make a stronger statement.
📏 Measure twice, decorate once
Tape out dimensions on your wall using painter’s tape to visualize different sizes. This quick step can save a lot of guesswork.
📲 Use the AR Preview Tool
See exactly how each piece will look on your wall—framed, finished, and true to scale. It’s like a fitting room for your art.
🖤 Go with your gut
Some rooms call for subtle, others for bold. Trust your instinct and let your space guide you.
Testimonials
But beautiful scenery and colors in this print. I will have it hanging in my home for years to come. It allows me a mini-vacation gazing on this print!
Karen H.
Riley was very easy to work with and very accommodating to all of our questions and requests. We get a lot of compliments on our beautiful, one of a kind piece of art and are proud to display such a timeless image with his name on it.
Shelby C.
Every time I walk past one of his pieces, I feel transported to another place. It's pure magic
Sarah S.
From My Lens to Your Wall.
When you collect a piece from Riley Clark Fine Art, you're not buying mass-produced décor or gallery-inflated prints. You're getting something real—photographic art created from actual moments I've experienced in the wild.
Every image was captured with intention, often after long hikes, early mornings, or chance encounters with nature's beauty. And because I sell directly to you, there's no middleman markup—just high-quality fine art, thoughtfully printed and personally shared.
By collecting here, you’re supporting an independent artist and bringing home a story—not just a scene.
