Sometimes travel's disruptions create the best opportunities. My first morning in Rome, jet lagged and sleepless, I discovered Castel Sant'Angelo bathed in perfect pre-dawn light—a moment that taught me to embrace the unexpected gifts of early rising.

What began as a Christmas market visit unexpectedly transformed into an architectural photography opportunity when I encountered Basel Messe's striking oculus. The perfect circular opening framing both sky and festive tree created an irresistible composition of geometry and celebration.

Some call overcast days disappointing for photography, but as I crossed back from Düsseldorf, the moody skies created perfect conditions for this monochrome study of Cologne's iconic skyline, where Gothic spires meet industrial arches, and a tiny rowing crew provided the serendipitous human element.