Here are the ground rules.  There’s a lot of work that goes into shooting an episode of Sunrise Earth.  Of the utmost importance is determining which locations are the best to shoot.  This series takes great care to deliver not only a stunning sunrise, but to present  a distinctive location firsthand –  so that viewers feel like it could be happening right outside.

In order for your nomination to be considered as a location finalist for this very special five episode series, it must meet the following criteria:

1. Clear Sun:  Deep valleys and woods are doable, but challenging if they cover the sun.

2. Action: Enough predictable and varied activity to engage interest of viewer who is taking time to notice.  River current, waves on seashore, rising steam, moving animals, people, or birds all work well. Ideally, we like to set up in one vantage point and not move until breakfast.

3. Light Direction:  Usually we begin by recording the sun for 10-15 minutes, then we pan either left or right up to 120 degrees to rest on our scene.  This prevents backlighting and allows for more attractive profile light direction.

4. Lens Friendly: Scene that has variety, texture, and interesting composition opportunities for our “big picture” camera A (with the wide angle lens), and plenty of interesting material for our “close-up” camera B (with telephoto lens).  

5. Sun as Trigger:  This is the toughest of all.  We search high and wide for morning events that are triggered by the rising sun.  Who are the creatures of the dawn?