Up early trying a different vantage point, I decided that the peak had passed for this sunrise. Clouds and fog typically make for a more dramatic composition, and this morning we had very few clouds. Since the was about 10 minutes from actually rising, and knowing that the nice warm winter light might bathe the Bridge nicely, I decided to take the 10 minute drive down to Fort Baker.

Literally, just as I was parking I came upon the sunrise, and I knew these conditions pass surprising fast. I jumped out of the car and got my tripod and camera set up and started getting to work. After a few moments, the sun had risen enough to where it was just a white circle the drama had passed. It was fun to catch this moment as the sun rose over San Francisco. You can make out the Oakland Bay Bridge in the distance, along with Coit Tower (on Telegraph Hill) and the TransAmerica Pyramid. 

One of the Park Police SUVs came slowly around where I was, and as he turned around, I moved my camera/tripod. He rolled his window down, and while the shotgun and assualt rifle were a bit intimidating, he was very friendly and interested in I bagged 'the shot'. He then told me a few favorite spots he enjoys on his early morning patrols - more photographs on the way!

Sunrise San Francisco Bay III

It was fun to interact with the Park Police in this way, and was the second 'gift' of the morning - second only to the stellar sunrise we caught!