The first thing I do when I arrive at a site that I think has the potential for a great photo is to scout the area. I’m looking for something unique and out of the ordinary, something that will make the photo special. In this photo of the Beaver River along the North Shore of Lake Superior I found a jumbled pile of drift wood left-over from the high water of Spring. The drift wood added a different texture and softness in contrast to the hard boulders along the shore of the river. So the next time you’re out looking to make that great photo to hang in your home, spend some time scouting the area and scan your surroundings for that special something that will make your photo exceptional.