Sjonafjord in the afterglow

by Ralf Lehmann

Above the Sjonafjord near Nesna, a narrow orange streak glows on the horizon after sunset. Above it lie dense, reddish bands of cloud that fade into a cool blue-grey towards the top of the picture. Dark mountain slopes frame the fjord on both sides, opening up the view to the sea. In the distance, a small, distinctive mountain silhouette stands out against the bright sky. A subtle reddish reflection can be seen on the blue water.

The photograph was taken during an evening drive along the Kystriksveien in northern Norway. Near Nesna, I was able to head for a vantage point some 300 metres above the fjord shore. The sun had long since set, but the afterglow still cast a distinct band of light between the sea and the clouds. I was glad to be able to stop here and have time to take in this view. It was precisely the contrast between the barely discernible mountain slopes and the bright horizon that held my attention.

As a wall hanging, the photograph thrives on its large, tranquil expanses and the depth between the nearby hillside and the distant sea. The warm streak of light adds a deliberate splash of colour to the predominantly blue landscape. Wood, grey textiles and simple furniture echo the subdued colours and leave space for the evening sky. For me, the image above all captures that moment of pausing whilst travelling along the Norwegian coast.