A 30-second exposure captures the billiant star filled sky above the Enlightenment Stupa near Crestone, CO. Michael Brands for The New York Times.

A reflection of the Maroon Bells at sunrise near Aspen, Colorado. The image has been rotated. Michael Brands.

Skiers enjoy watching Winterskol fireworks from Aspen Mountain. Michael Brands.

A mule deer buck lies where he died in Horseshoe Canyon at Canyonlands National Park, Utah. Michael Brands.