A few years ago, I was in Monument Valley, Arizona, one crystal clear morning. My goal was to get some photos of the famous rock formations, there.
As the light strengthened and threatened to end my "morning shoot", I saw this hot air balloon being filled and prepared for flight. I felt very "lucky" to be there - just in time - to get out of my car, frame the scene, and rip off about a dozen shots as the balloon ascended into the still morning air.
The lighting was perfect, and the timing was just right - a few minutes earlier and I may not have even seen them with the balloon still flat on the ground - a few minutes later and I would have some nice photos of a pretty balloon in flight.
This dramatic image of the balloon, just as it clears the top of the rock and with it's shadow still on the rock's face is one of my all time favorites.
So, yes, I was lucky to be there at that time. But I was also prepared with my camera ready to go so I was able to make the most of the opportunity.
This principle applies to every thing we do in life, so prepare yourself for that next lucky opportunity!
The actual quote is attributed to the 1st century Roman philosopher, Seneca. It goes more like this:
"Luck is when Preparation meets Opportunity"
Photo © Mike Hendren 2009
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