Considered one of the most coveted photos for photographers and social media influencers alike, the phenomenon known as the “California Henge” or the “San Francisco Henge” is set to return this weekend.
Bay Area photographers prepare for the special event every year when the sunrise is expected to align with the city’s street grid starting on Saturday morning. This results in gorgeous images that have become some of the most sought-after.
Photographer Joshua Singh shared that capturing the “California Henge” is always a thrill, no matter how many years he captures it.
“It’s a unique opportunity to get a shot of the famous California Street, the sun and the Bay Bridge all in alignment,” Singh said. “I think there is a thrill watching the alignment live despite shooting it for a few years now.”
Another photographer, Pankaj Bhargava, spoke with the LA Times about the chance to grab the photo this weekend, noting that weather plays a huge factor.
“The San Francisco weather has been so tricky,” Bhargava said. “We’re keeping our fingers crossed.”
The amateur photographer has been trying to capture his desired photo for some time, as this year marks his fifth trying to get the photo. Having eight or nine attempts at the shot, Bhargava says he has only had good weather half the time.
Those looking to get the image this year will only have a short time to do so, As the sun will be framed by the buildings on California and Gough streets and hover over Bay Bridge for moments from Saturday to Monday, just before 7 a.m.
As the Earth travels around the sun and tilts on its access, creating the henge phenomenon twice a year, giving photographers the ability to capture their version of the photo in April and September.
Bhargava told the Times that the popularity surrounding the “California Henge” has continued to grow in popularity throughout recent years, sharing that since he first started taking photos at the spot, the number of photographers joining him has more than doubled.
“People have heard a lot about Manhattanhenge, but the California Henge or San Francisco Henge is not that famous,” Bhargava said. “I’ve seen a gradual increase of interest.”
While some might expect photographers to stop once they capture the San Francisco Henge once, Bhargava and others continue to take every opportunity they can, as the photos can always be perfected.
“One shot I really want is somebody crossing the street under the sun,” Bhargava said. “For me, it’s very exciting to capture.”
Those who aren’t as versed in planning for the photo don’t need to worry, as the photography community works to help others in capturing the photos.
“I rely on other photographers who are well versed with apps like Photopills to predict when the best day to shoot would be. It most definitely has become more popular,” Singh said. “I'm all for more people to come and witness this live, while respecting other photographers and neighbors who live in the community.”
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