When you set out to engineer some of the world's most innovative vehicles, you appreciate inspiration. That's why Lexus, with the cooperation of The Ansel Adams Publishing Rights Trust, hit the road to explore some of California's most breathtaking vistas. Lexus takes us on an adventure inspired by the iconic photography of Ansel Adams, and in return, hopes to inspire others to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Adventure, beauty, technique and much more, Chasing Light is the story of two photographers and a film crew setting off on a journey to discover and rediscover the spirit of Ansel Adams. Lexus' dedication to innovation, craft and design mirrors Ansel Adams' dedication to the same qualities, creating the ideal partnership for this endeavor.


Waking up before sunrise is never easy, but when you reach a destination as unique as Zabriskie Point, you know it was well worth the lack of sleep. It makes a person wonder why they don't go on adventures like this every weekend. Lexus provided vehicles from their SUV lineup that made the rugged landscape and cold, pre-dawn temperatures an afterthought.


You will need a first-rate navigation system and specific GPS coordinates to find this hidden gem off the U.S Highway 395 in Lone Pine, California. You will also need superb off-road capabilities, as the road is long and unpaved. Located on a sea of rocks set against the foot of the Sierra Nevadas, the destination offers a vision that is difficult to put into words. Don't forget to leave a note of thanks in the green ammunition box hidden behind a rock in the very spot Ansel Adams created one of his legendary photographs.


The nearly 8-hour drive from Lone Pine to Yosemite was rain-soaked. Luckily the crew was safe in their Lexus SUVs, which truly made everyone feel protected on the wet roads. The rain suddenly stopped as we drove up to the Tunnel View Lookout Point. Then the clouds dissipated, offering glorious depth and surrealism to the view. It was as if Ansel Adams himself orchestrated the weather.


Ansel Adams explored rugged, hard-to-reach destinations and often used his vehicle to help create the perfect photograph. We mounted a custom platform onto the Lexus GX and tried it ourselves a few times, proving that Lexus delivers both capability and luxury.


Loading and unloading all the gear necessary for this production every day was like solving a giant puzzle. The design and storage capability of the four Lexus vehicles simplified this process for our crew. We were able to fit all gear and passengers comfortably. We ate meals on the tailgate or inside with the windows down, enjoying the fresh mountain air. When you're on a road trip like this, your car becomes a second home, a base camp.

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I thought this one was really cool. Homage

 

Good stuff. Thanks for posting.

 

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