My favorite image from 2025. I arrived in Death Valley National Park in early January. This was the first, of many mornings, exploring the Mesquite Sand Dunes looking for a good light and a pleasing composition. I was drawn to the S-curve of the shadow on the lit sand in the foreground the dune still in shadow behind it.
Feedback Requests
Do you like the amount of contrast and tonal range?
Pertinent Technical Details
Fuji XT-5 and 100-400mm, 6 images focus stacked using Helicon Focus. Converted to black and white using Lightroom Classic.
This is such a stunning image Randall. The contrast between the light, midtone and dark tones in this one section of a larger scene is outstanding. And I agree with Max that the lines going in different directions really completes this shot. Well done.
Hi Randall,
I am loving this! The S curve is perfectly placed and quite striking; as is the contrasting black and white areas on the dunes. I also like the visual tension created with the ripples in the sand and the way they head off in different directions. Beautifully done.
This is spectacular, @DunnByRandall. I love the shaded and lit dunes, their sinuous shapes, and the different directional lines of corduroy texture. Really nice. I see why it’s your favorite of the year.
ML
