Life-giving, beautiful, mesmerizing. These are all ways we would probably describe Arizona, but also the sun that draws visitors and new residents each year and that keeps current residents here. Each time those rays emerge over the horizon, it brings hope for another amazing day in our state. Thankfully, the sun also highlights the landscape’s splendid natural beauty. Here are 15 examples of just how much the sun compliments our great state, creating some truly stunning scenery in Arizona.
1. Let’s start with a picturesque view of Monument Valley just as the sun is peeking over the horizon.
2. There’s also this peaceful view of the Grand Canyon as the sun hits the sides of the canyon walls.
3. Another sunrise at Bell Rock in Sedona. Stunning how the lights show off all the little details.
4. Here is a beautiful view out at Iron Springs during the morning hours.
5. Want an artsy photo for your Instagram account? Snap a picture with the sun just like this in the background for an amazing lens flare.
6. Here’s another example of a lens flare with some Arizona plants in Two Guns.
7. Such a beautiful view of Blue Canyon. Thank you, Sun!
8. This photo was taken near Alpine and almost looks like a scene from a movie or a magazine photoshoot.
9. The sun creates a dramatic look for the Painted Desert here.
10. Did you know photographers in other parts of the country (and world) wish for this kind of lighting? We get it almost every day. :)
The photographer notes that this was taken along the Salt River.
11. Fun fact: When doing film photography in other areas of the country, I find that I can’t even use a 400-speed film on a partly sunny day without having to push the film one or two stops. In Arizona, I almost always 100 speed.
This photographer is at the Wave, a lovely sight I can’t wait to visit.
12. Antelope Canyon comes alive when the sunlight hits the right spots. Just be patient.
13. The way the sun hits the sides of the rocks here makes for a magical moment at Chiricahua National Monument.
14. And our sunsets? The best of the best.
15. There’s no better way to end a hectic day than with a beautiful Arizona sunset in the background. You can’t get that anywhere else.
What is your favorite part of this stunning scenery in Arizona? Do you have any impressive sunny pictures to share? We’d like to hear your thoughts in the comments section. Or, if you'd like to be featured for our Photo of the Day for Arizona, then you can send your photos to [email protected].
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