Pistonbully at noon during an Antarctic winter
Jan, 2016Views
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Awards
Contest Finalist in Winter Roads Photo Contest
People's Choice in journey at night Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Outstanding Creativity
Top Choice
Absolute Masterpiece
All Star
Magnificent Capture
Superior Skill
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
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Behind The Lens
Location
This was behind castle rock, a large rock formation several miles away from the U.S. Antarctic base, McMurdo Station.Time
This was taken around 2 pm, although it appears to be a night shot. We have 24 hours of darkness during winters in Antarctica which means every outdoor shot can be a challenge.Lighting
There was an incredibly bright full moon out that day, so bright that we could see clearly without flashlights (which is rare). It was a bit challenging to balance the light from the moon with the lights on the vehicle but I tried a few different exposures and was happiest with how this one turned out.Equipment
This was shot with a Nikon D7000,a Nikkor 18-105 and a Manfrotto tripod.Inspiration
I loved how alone we seemed out there. We were in Antarctica, in the middle of winter, miles away from the safety of our research base with only an ungroomed flag route to take us home. There was something so adventurous to this scene without really having much in it. I think it is a great representation of the journey of moving to Antarctica, where so much was unknown and everything felt so isolated.Editing
The vehicle was a bit dark, so I brought up the shadows and increased the contrast to emphasize the moonlight coming through the clouds. There were also a couple distracting spots that I removed with the clone stamp in photoshop.In my camera bag
Since we have a limited access to mail in the winter, whatever gear I bring down with me is all I have for the season. This year, I brought a Nikon d7000, Nikkor 18-105,Tokina 11-16 F2.8, Tamaron 70-200 F2.8, a Nikkor 50 F1.8, a tripod, cable release, and a few off camera flashes. Mid-way through the season I decided I wanted to try some new lighting techniques and diy-ed some light modifiers with cardboard and sheets since I couldn't get them any other way.Feedback
My favorite part of this shot is it's simplicity and leading lines. Sometimes the more you leave out of your composition the louder it speaks to you.
