Wallingford Back Mines
An abandoned quartz mine located in Quebec has become a local swimming hole.
An abandoned quartz mine located in Quebec has become a local swimming hole.
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Jul, 2016Views
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
My favorite photographs are ones that have lots of textures and colors. I heard there was an abandoned quartz mine within driving distance from my home so I decided to check it out. Much to my delight, the mine was filled with photo opportunity - from the turquoise blue water (created by the minerals of the mine) to the amazing rock formations. While the Wallingford Back Mines website clearly states it is not a tourist attraction and can be dangerous, the locals use it as a fun place to swim!Time
I arrived at the mines around noon. After a long, steep hike to the top of the mountain, I was treated with an incredible view inside the mine.Lighting
The lighting was a bit tricky. There was the brightness of the sunshine coming through the openings and then part of the cave was very dark.Equipment
I just got into photography this past February - so I am using a beginner DSLR camera, Nikon 3300. After a few months of taking pictures, I decided to buy the Nikon 35mm 1.8 lens. Glad I did, as I think it made a difference in this picture.Inspiration
I still have a lot to learn about taking photos and will be taking on more classes this Fall. In this photo, I tried to keep the balance between the light and the dark but still keep the beautiful color of the water.Editing
The only touch up I did was the dark area of the cave. I needed to lighten the exposure on that part.In my camera bag
I enjoy taking landscape so I always bring with me a tripod, the 35mm (of course), and my Nikon 55-300mm 4.5-5.6 lens (just in case I spot something in the distance). For this picture, there was no way to use the tripod on the steep incline of the cave. I was much too focused not to slip down the side into the water.Feedback
My advice (and I'm still trying to remember to take my own advice) is to be patient while taking photographs. The young people that are in this picture were actually jumping off the cliff into the water. Unfortunately I only saw it after I climbed back out of the cave. I was too far away to capture it properly. Just be patient and the photograph will happen!
