Getting this photo was a fun adventure. I had been out to the Dells Mill and Museum in Augusta, Wisconsin once before. It's about a 2-hour drive from my home in the Twin Cities, and the last part of the drive is all on back roads where I'd be completely lost if it wasn't for GPS.

The first time I came out to the Dells Mill was a very similar day to the one I shot this photo on — an overcast fall day with some color in the trees. That first trip was two years earlier, in 2014, and I was there about a week too late to catch peak fall colors. The photo I got that day was okay, but it wasn't anything I was satisfied with. I wanted a different look and feel.

I made the two-hour drive back out to the museum, then walked over to the two-lane bridge where you can get this view. It's not a very busy road, and the locals are clearly used to seeing photographers standing there. There were at least five other photographers on the bridge when I arrived. I knew from my previous trip that if a car rumbled by during a long exposure, the bridge would vibrate and ruin the shot. On that first trip I'd taken a handful of 30-second exposures. This time, I was going for a 3-minute exposure — if a car drove by, I'd have to wait it out and start again.

Once my tripod, camera, and filters were all set up, I took the photo. While the three minutes ticked off, I made small talk with the other photographers on the bridge, and not a single car drove past. I checked the shot, and it was exactly what I was looking for — which almost never happens on the first try. I packed up while the other photographers joked about how fast I was done. In total, I drove four hours that day for three minutes of photography. That's the way it works sometimes in this line of work, and I wouldn't change it for the world.

This piece is a great fit for anyone who loves Wisconsin, historic mills, or long-exposure photography with a bit of fall color.

Looks Best On

This one works well on Canvas Gallery Wrap, which brings out the softness of the overcast light and fall color with a painterly texture. For a punchier, more modern look, a High Gloss Metal print is a great alternative. Acrylic and Fine Art Paper are also available if you prefer those finishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size should I choose?
Use the Live Preview AR tool to see the actual size on your own wall using your phone or tablet, or the Wall Preview tool to see it staged in a sample room. Both are available right on this page.

What's the difference between the materials?
Canvas Gallery Wrap has a soft, textured finish that suits warm, natural tones. Metal prints offer a smooth, modern finish with punchy contrast. Acrylic adds extra depth and a glossy, glass-like look, and Fine Art Paper gives a more traditional, matte presentation.

Where was this photographed?
This was shot from the bridge beside the Dells Mill and Museum in Augusta, Wisconsin.

How long does production take?
Each print is made to order once you place your request. Canvas, metal, and paper prints typically ship within 5 business days; acrylic prints take a bit longer, usually 8-10 business days.

Is shipping included?
Yes, all orders over $99 ship free within the continental United States.