Majesty
May, 2015Views
249
Likes
Awards
Winner in Stormy Weather Photo Challenge
Top Ranks
Top 10 rankTop 10 rank week 1
Top 30 rankCategories
Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Discover more photos See all
Behind The Lens
Location
This photograph was taken in front of the Tierra Patagonia, a hotel situated on the edge of a lake opposite the Torres del Paine in Patagonia, Chile.Time
This is potentially one of the most challenging photographs I have ever had the opportunity to take. The sun was barely above the undulating horizon, bathing the regal mountains before it in a golden wreath of light as clouds of a such a diversity in shape and color that only their omnipresent presence and massive size rendered them distinguishable as belonging to the same title engulfed them. With increasing rapidity my shooting window diminished as the sun rose steadily and the mountains became obscured behind a dense screen of water droplets. Moreover, the wind rendered the tripod I had carried utterly useless, buffeting me backwards. Utilizing the opposing wall as a support against such a savage force I composed the photograph before triggering a burst of 12 frames. This was the sole sharp image I managed to obtain before retreating to the safety and warmth of the structure behind.Lighting
I shot this image during the golden hour ensuring that the landscape possessed a golden hue that renders the overall photograph far more dramatic.Equipment
This photograph was taken on a Canon 70d coupled with the Sigma 120-400mm f/4.5-f/5.6 zoom lens. Although the use of this lens for landscapes may initially appear bizarre, I have increasingly found it practical for and particularly well-suited to tight landscape shots. I also utilized a polarizing filter to afford color to the sky.Inspiration
Patagonia is a place characterized by a landscape and cloud mass of such untempered beauty, awe, brutality, and magnitude that humanity is contextualized. One feels insignificant and without import. In taking this frame I desired to capture these qualities and emotions that confront the explorers who venture there.Editing
Although landscape photographs usually undergo a heavy dose of post-processing I frown upon the significant alteration of a photograph. In photographing the natural world I believe it is one's duty to truthfully and accurately depict it. Post-production creates a false some and distorted depiction. Thus, I only increased the definition and contrast of the image. In addition, I saturated the colors.In my camera bag
Traveling to remote areas sometimes on small planes with weight restrictions or trekking for several hours necessitates that my gear is both robust but light. Consequentially, in my bag I have a Canon 70d, a Sigma 120-400mm f/4.5-f/5.6 zoom lens for wildlife and tight landscape shots, a Canon EF-S 18–55mm lens f/3.5–5.6 for landscapes, and a Canon 100mm f/2.8 prime lens for macro shots. In addition, I have several filters and miscellaneous cords and cleaning equipment.Feedback
I would advise individuals attempting to capture something similar to photograph in the moments when others aren't, primarily when weather conditions are adverse. This will ensure you capture unique moments in which nature expresses facets of its character that are truly incredible and moving.
