Photo Credit: Chandler Watson
By Michael Kinney
I took this photo late in the evening on March 31. The only reason I know exactly when is because earlier that same day, my stepfather passed away.
After watching the man who raised me take his final breaths and commiserating with my family, I considered heading back home. However, I saw a thunderstorm and a possible tornado might be heading that way. I thought going into the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge would give me a chance to clear my head while also capturing a dynamic storm.
While I was there thinking and shooting, I saw a man and his dog standing out on the edge of the rocks staring out into the incoming storm. I knew right away that capturing this moment was the reason I was up there.
Without me saying a word, the two stood stoic, looking at the wonders of the approaching storm while knowing it would soon pass. Or maybe that was just what I saw and told myself.
Regardless, it gave me plenty of time to compose and fire off a few shots. That includes this one, in which the two are comforting each other as he bends down to pet his buddy. I knew instantly it would be a keeper.
I learned the gentleman was a first-time visitor to Oklahoma. He and his dog, Flynn, had driven from San Diego to help his close friend bury his father. The duo was heading back on the highway to California when, at the last minute, he decided to take a quick detour to see the view from the refuge.
As amazing as the views are in San Diego, he was stunned by the fierceness and beauty of what he was witnessing at that moment in Southwest Oklahoma.
I gave him my contact info and told him to reach out so I could send him a complimentary print. I am still waiting to hear from him or Flynn.
Regardless, if I never hear from them again, they provided me with this peaceful moment during what had been a punishing day.
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