Washington Monument in front of purple clouds

Photographers have drilled into them the credo that, with few exceptions, they should take pictures shortly before and after sunrise or sunset. And, in busy places, that often narrows down to sunrise, when everyone else is just getting out of bed.

Today’s sunrise above the National Mall in Washington, DC, showcases why. As the rising sun cast a purple glow on the clouds and hence the Reflecting Pool underneath, hardly anyone stirred to disrupt the mesmerizing scene.

This morning was especially fun because I went with Angela Pan, whose breathtaking images of the District serve as reminders that Washingtonians can find beauty right at home.