mt. fuji-sunrise-rokcs-and-lake-2048
Mt. Fuji in the early morning, shot across lake Kawaguchi
Mt. Fuji in the early morning, shot across lake Kawaguchi
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Jun, 2015Views
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Staff Winter Selection 2015
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Behind The Lens
Location
I took this last year across lake Kawaguchi in Japan.Time
I set up my gear before the dawn so around 3 30am, Not sure what time exactly I took this shot but I would say between 5 and 6 amLighting
Lighting is all in photography. It creates shapes, depth and drama. I wanted to capture first sun rays hitting the snowy peak of Mt.Fuji to amplify the contrast between warm and cold tones (night fading / day staring), and also to balance the bright saturated warm colors of the rocks.Equipment
Sony a77ii / DT 18-55 from sony (I think) / manfrotto 057 tripod with the Q5 head, remote control for the shutter, thermos with hot tea.Inspiration
The view itself. Before the sunrise I searched for some rocks in the lake. I wanted to create strong foreground to add depth and layers. I knew where the sun will be coming from, and could predict how light will be falling on the scene.Editing
I do not post any photos without post processing. I actually prefer post processing from taking photos, I reckon it is far more creative and artistic than photography itself. This photo is a result of what is known as focus stacking to begin with, so everything you see is in focus. I do all my editing manually in photoshop - lightroom, though it had improved a lot recently, it is a tool for photographers not artists. Photoshop gives you ultimate control and possibilities.In my camera bag
2 bodies, few lenses that I need for the job (not more than 4) and massive tripod. I am 6.3 and love crisp photos, so I need something tall and sturdy. I use Manfrotto 057 - it is heavy as hell but it doesnt move even during earthquakes. I often work with people (portraits) so I carry flashes and wireless transmitters, some simple flash diffuser or portable softbox (like those from Rogue). microfiber cloth for cleaning lenses, canned air, some clamps from peakdesign (thier stuff is amazing).Feedback
Do your research in terms of lighting, get up very early, be patient, and know what you want. I shoot with vision of post processing, whether it is a Simple edit or complex photo manipulation. Pay attention to balance of all components in the photo - there has to be harmony and that harmony is created by light. Fall in love with light and what it can do. Once you on the location - work it. Do not just stick to one spot. Find at least 2 or 3 so you can quickly move without loosing the light. Dawn is short and you have literally few minutes to click. Use a very sturdy tripod, remote control and take more exposures than you need. Dawn and sunrise produce huge dynamic range especially on a sunny day. you may want to capture various exposure for digital bending inside photoshop. Multiple exposures are exceptionally important when you shoot on sunny day with passing clouds. Clouds form shapes, shapes contribute to the composition - they can complement it or ruin it. You may need that buffer.
