A snow storm near Kashgar, China

THE STORY BEHIND THE PICTURE

Kashgar, Along the Silk Road

I’m often looking for unusual light or weather conditions to make pictures.  On this day in the high desert along what was once the famed Silk Road west of the city of Kashgar, China, an unexpected spring snow-storm hit us on April 1. Kashgar is one of the driest cities in the world and rarely sees snow, so this was a windfall for me.  As I desperately scrambled in search of a subject, these factory workers began to emerge onto the street, also marveling at the surprising white blanket of snow.  I shot with a long lens to emphasize the thick falling flakes, which made it a textured pattern of men and trees.  And thanks to the man with his contrasting red umbrella, who just happened into the frame, this became a memorable moment.  Another case of photographer’s luck.