Cades Cove

Being from Atlanta, Cade's Cove is a location in the park that has been just far enough of a drive that I often don't make it, let alone at a time of day permit...
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Being from Atlanta, Cade's Cove is a location in the park that has been just far enough of a drive that I often don't make it, let alone at a time of day permitting the best photography. Maybe this has been a mistake on my part - Cade's Cove is filled with awesome photo opportunities! Wildlife and history combine under impressive views of the intimidating ridge of the Great Smoky Mountains. Intimidating, that is, if you've ever hiked to the top from the bottom - there aren't many hikes east of the Mississippi with as much elevation gain as hiking from Fontana Lake or Cade's Cove to Clingman's Dome.

We were stopped waiting for some cars to go by when this sign and tree caught my eye. I've been trying to be more intentional lately about recognizing why good pictures actually look good, and my conclusion is that you've got to have two elements: a sense of balance (i.e., objects that anchor portions of the image) and a sense of flow (something to add a dynamic element to the shot that keeps your eye moving). Here, the 'balance' is given by the sign, tree, and road, while the 'flow' is provided by the fence, sky, and also the road. Looking back at my favorite pictures, I realize the best shots always seem to have objects that connect to form triangular shapes.
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