San Gimignano
Aug, 2016Views
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Awards
People's Choice in Vintage Architecture Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Top Choice
Superb Composition
Absolute Masterpiece
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in San Gimignano, Tuscany, looking north from Porta San Giovanni. I liked the combination of textures between the road surface, old buildings, street lighting and the beautiful colour of the early morning sky.Time
I first visited the town during the day and found it to be horrifically busy with literally thousands of tourists. I decided to return at 5am, just as the sun was rising to make the most of that magic hour of perfect light. I was lucky because my wife came with me as assistant so I could set up quickly to take advantage of the ever-changing lighting conditions.Lighting
Lighting was everything here. I guess five minutes either way would have resulted in a very different picture. The star bursts are all natural in these conditions and I really like the contrast between the emergence of daylight and the depth of mystery created in the shadows. A tripod is a must in these conditions.Equipment
I used my trusty D5200, the superb value for money Sigma 10-20mm wide angle lens with a circular polarising filter (You have to be aware that this will mean that you have to adjust by up to 2 stops); a tripod and remote release.Inspiration
I love Italy (and especially Tuscany) for beautiful photographs. There are hundreds of stunning medieval hilltop villages, towns and cities to photograph. While walking along this street, I was struck by how beautiful it would be without the people around = Early morning!Editing
As a lot of the work was done here with the equipment, the main elements of processing involved adjustments to whites and blacks, vibrancy and highlights within Photoshop.In my camera bag
I carry all of the above plus a 50 mm prime and various graduated ND filters to cope with such clear summer conditions. My most recent purchase was a travel tripod - very useful.Feedback
Quite simply: Get up early! I see great opportunities for shots, go away, think about the best equipment and set up, then return at just the right moment. Getting up early while on holiday may seem a pain, but you do get the rest of the day to sleep... You must use a tripod and remote release. It may seem cumbersome, but the results speak for themselves.
