About This Image
Location: Aspen, CO
The Maroon Bells have long held a reputation as one of Colorado’s most breathtaking destinations—and once you stand before them, it’s easy to understand why. Towering peaks, mirrored lakes, and golden autumn color all collide in one unforgettable location. But like many iconic places, it now draws crowds. The lake has been lower in recent years, and with ropes marking off the shoreline, capturing that classic reflection shot has become harder to come by.
I arrived early that morning, joining dozens of others before sunrise to stake out a spot. I managed a few images I was happy with, but the low water levels and congestion made it difficult to create anything that truly moved me. So I wandered. I packed up my gear, not expecting much more, and began the slow walk back to my van.
That’s when I saw it.
The light had changed. Wispy clouds were beginning to stretch across the sky. The sun, now higher than I’d normally prefer, cast a warm, golden glow across the peak foliage. The color exploded across the valley, and for a brief moment, it felt like the entire scene was lit from within.
I dropped my bag, set up my camera again, and framed the shot.
The result? One of my favorite images from the entire trip. It wasn’t planned. It wasn’t during golden hour. But it reminded me that sometimes, photography is less about chasing perfect conditions and more about noticing unexpected beauty.
Sometimes, it pays to see things in a different light.
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.
