Sunset - Wasilla, AK
Jan, 2016Views
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
I snapped this beauty in Wasilla, AK, overlooking the Mat'Su Valley. Featured in this photo are Pioneer Peak, East and West Twin peaks and Goat Rock, and directly under the brightest spot, where the peaks meet the Earth, is the Knik Glacier.Time
Hard to say, golden hour changes so quickly throughout the year in Alaska. In the summer this could be 11PM, in the winter this could be 3PM. But I believe this was around 4 and 6PM last Fall.Lighting
Lighting is obviously all natural. I waited until the clouds and the sun matched the intensity that the peaks held, and then I grabbed a card full of photos, I have so many I could probably create a timelapse with them. I wanted as many options as possible so I choose the one that fit the feeling best.Equipment
I shot with a Panasonic GH4, a Lumix 14-140mm lens and Manfrotto sticks with a Manfrotto fluid head.Inspiration
In the 2 years I spent living in Alaska, I was continually intrigued by the grandeur that was created by the every changing sunsets and sunrises. Especially with dramatic peaks that Alaska's mountain ranges produce. I wanted to capture the feeling I kept having and I knew a blue sky wouldn't cut it. I waited until the clouds and the sun matched the intensity that the peaks held, and then I grabbed a card full of photos I could probably turn into a timelapse. I wanted as many options as possible so I could choose the one that fit the feeling best.Editing
Yes, I processed this with photoshop, and had to basically color correct this in three sections. Land, sky and color of the lighting. I didn't want to destroy the natural colors, I wanted to accentuate them. Bring out the contrast and drama while keeping it grounded in reality. There is something other worldly about Alaskan landscapes and I really feel like I captured a great example of that in the Mat'Su valley.In my camera bag
I always have my Panasonic GH4 and a hacked Panasonic GH2, because I do a lot of video as well. I have a few Lumix lenses, the only two I really keep with me are the 14-140mm and the 20mm. I have a Canon EF to M43 adapter so I can use my Canon glass as well. Which are a 20mm, a 50mm and an 85mm. Like I said, I do a lot of video as well, so these Canon primes cover my bases. I always have my variable ND filters for each lens so I can control highlights and blown out skies. I have two TTL hot shoe flashes and a small portable bounce. And lastly, I usually always carry an external recorder (Zoom H4n) and a couple rode Videomics. I also never head out with my manfrotto sticks and manfrotto fluid head.Feedback
Waiting for the best natural lighting for landscape photography is key. You can do a lot of post work, but capturing the best possible lighting "in camera" will ALWAYS trump over processed photos. Use your legs and get out exploring. Get off the roads and out into the wilderness. Find an angle that intrigues you, and take lots of photos.
