First light strikes cliffs emerging from the South Dakota plains. This photo was taken about 10 miles outside of Badlands National Park, where the badlands formations extend into public grasslands (so, drones are permitted). When making photos at sunrise, the light and color progresses, starting first in the clouds before making its way down to the landscape. When the clouds light up, that light can be reflected onto the landscape below, painting it with a soft, colorful glow.
