Storm Over Shiprock

Image Critiques
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Image(s)

3M3B6744-HDR-146-147-148.jpg
3M3B6744-HDR-146-147-148.jpg1500×1000 971 KB

Image Description

This photograph of Shiprock was taken in October 2015 during a two-week photography trip through the Four Corners region. I arrived well before sunrise under mostly clear skies, but shortly afterward clouds moved in and light rain began to fall. Because I had accessed the location via a rough two-track road that was known to become nearly impassable when wet, the changing weather created some urgency. At the same time, the approaching storm produced beautiful, dramatic light. This frame was captured just before I packed up and made my escape down the increasingly muddy road.

Shiprock is a volcanic plug rising roughly 1,700 feet above the desert floor in San Juan County, New Mexico. It is the remnant of an ancient volcanic vent with radiating dikes that extend across the surrounding landscape. Located on Navajo Nation land and considered a sacred site, access required a permit. The formation is so prominent that it can be seen from nearly 50 miles away across the high desert.

Feedback Requests

I would like to hear any and all constructive comments even ones considering minor refinements I might consider.

Pertinent Technical Details

Canon 5D Mark 3, manual on a tripod, Canon 16-35mm, f/4L USM Lens
ISO 50, 16mm, f/8.0 1/400sec, exposure bracketing

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Willem, the lighting is quite dramatic and somewhat different, since the foreground is well lit while Shiprock and the sky around it is quite dark. The sky is nicely dramatic, showing the impending storm well. I do wonder about somewhat more balanced lighting, with the foreground slightly darker and Shiprock and the sky around it a bit brighter.

1 Like
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I very much like the drama of the image, Alexander, The composition is beautiful. I also think the lighting should be a bit better balanced. Slight darker golds in foreground and open up a little with the sinister cloud formation .

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4

Thank you @Mark_Seaver for that feedback. I will post another version to try to balance the lighting better.

5

Thank you @Stephen_Stanton for your feedback. I will post another version to try to adjust the foreground and background lighting.