When you’re planning a sunrise shoot at Glacier Point, simplicity can be your greatest ally. During an ambitious morning shoot at Glacier Point I embraced this concept with the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 mounted on my Sony camera, and that's it. Despite my usual inclination to carry multiple lenses, this lightweight zoom delivered everything I needed—and nothing I didn’t.
Waiting around for the sun to rise at Glacier Point. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Lightweight and Nimble for Glacier Point’s Sprawling Beauty
We parked the car and started unloading our gear in the predawn chill. Glacier Point’s is big and we wanted to cover a lot of ground quickly, so I made a bold decision: I left the rest of my lenses behind, clicked on the Tamron 17-28mm, stuffed an extra battery in my pocket, and set off. With just one lens, I could focus entirely on capturing the moment rather than second-guessing my setup.
Our first location was a winding road near Glacier Point, perfect for a dynamic skating shot at sunrise. As we climbed the hill, my camera swung lightly at my side, and I was reminded of how freeing it is to travel light. The Tamron’s compact size and featherweight design were key, letting me keep up with my friends and focus on creativity instead of gear.
Skating Glacier Point Road at sunrise. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Skateboarding Glacier Point Road At Sunrise
The scene was set: a skater ready to carve down the winding road just as the sun crested Half Dome. The Tamron 17-28mm’s ultra-wide-angle perspective captured the grandeur of the moment, from the twisting road to the warm light washing over the iconic granite peak, using the road as the leading line.
I called out, "Go, go, go!" The skater pushed forward, carving the turn with perfect timing as I snapped away. The f/2.8 aperture let in just enough light to keep the shot crisp and clear, even in the low-light moments before full sunrise. But, I also wanted a star burst, so we did it a second time at f/18.
“Got it!” I shouted, and we hustled to the next spot.
Dancing on the diving board for sunset. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Capturing Silhouettes Dancing on the Diving Board
Our next stop was Glacier Point’s famous “diving board,” a perch that perfectly frames Half Dome in the background. Sunrise was well underway, and the light was changing fast. Jogging across Glacier Point with just the essentials, I was glad I didn’t have to fumble with extra lenses or a heavy bag.
At the diving board, I directed my friends—acting as models—to stand silhouetted against the rising sun. The Tamron 17-28mm’s wide field of view allowed me to capture their swirling dance while showcasing the vast expanse of Yosemite Valley below. The lens’s edge-to-edge sharpness made even the tiniest details pop, creating striking contrast between the silhouetted figures and the glowing backdrop. Again, I cranked the f-stop so the sun would look like a star and snapped.
Why the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Is Perfect for Glacier Point
Looking back, I realized the success of this shoot hinged on the Tamron 17-28mm. Here’s why:
Wide Focal Range for Yosemite’s Grandeur
Glacier Point demands a lens that can capture sweeping vistas, and the 17-28mm range does just that. From tight shots of Half Dome to the sprawling valley below, this lens delivered every time.Portability and Simplicity
At just over 14 ounces, the Tamron 17-28mm is light enough to carry all day, making it ideal for a shoot requiring constant movement. Its compact size also allowed me to focus on composition rather than lugging heavy gear.Fast Aperture for Low-Light Moments
The f/2.8 aperture was crucial during the low-light moments before sunrise. Whether capturing motion or sharp landscapes, this lens handled every challenge with ease.Sharp, Edge-to-Edge Clarity
Every shot was tack-sharp, even at the edges of the frame—a feature that’s critical when photographing iconic landscapes where details matter.
Looking over the edge at a 3000 foot drop. Photo by Dalton Johnson
The Verdict
Shooting sunrise at Glacier Point with only the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 taught me that sometimes, less is more. This lens not only simplified my setup but also inspired me to focus on the moment rather than the equipment. From dynamic skating shots to artistic silhouettes, it delivered everything I needed for a memorable morning in Yosemite.
If you’re planning a visit to Glacier Point—or any landscape photography adventure—leave the heavy bag behind. The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 might just be the only lens you need.
