The photographer snapped portraits of the unusual sight against the backdrop of crashing waves and a pink gradient sky.

Time was of the essence.

Though fleeting, this is exactly why Nowicki likes to photograph them.

Frozen Sand in Michigan

I really enjoy how different they are each shaped and how ephemeral they are.

Depending on the weather they may only last a day or two.

You have to be there at just the right moment to capture them with the most definition of shape.

Frozen Sand Pillars in Michigan

I tried to capture a range of the various shapes and sizes.

As predicted, the formations didnt last long.

Photographer Joshua Nowicki captured the otherworldly sight of frigid sand formations at Tiscornia Park Beach in Michigan.

Frozen Sand in Michigan

Frozen Sand Pillars in Michigan

Frozen Sand Pillars in Michigan

Frozen Sand Pillars in Michigan

Frozen Sand Pillars in Michigan

Frozen Sand in Michigan