Tunnel View, Yosemite National Park, CA
Jun, 2019Views
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Awards
2020 Choice Award
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Superb Composition
Peer Award
Outstanding Creativity
Absolute Masterpiece
All Star
Magnificent Capture
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Behind The Lens
Location
As you wind your way north along Highway 41, also known as Wawona Road, heading toward Yosemite Valley you eventually come to a tunnel. As you exit the tunnel a spectacular sight comes into view. There is a parking lot on the left where you can pull in, get out of your vehicle, and take in the glorious vista that is known as Tunnel View. From this lookout point is where I captured this stunning photo of Yosemite National Park.Time
I have been to Yosemite National Park many times, but this time was special, I had a friend with me who had never visited Yosemite before. Most of the day was spent driving around the valley looking for parking; even though it was April the park was very crowded. Finally, we found a parking spot and went for a short hike. Rushing back to the car, we jumped in and headed up to Tunnel View to watch the sunset. Since we arrived about 5:00pm we walked around, ate some snacks, and enjoyed a deep conversation while we waited for sunset. It was worth the wait; my friend loved the view and I was able to snap this photo!Lighting
I had always wanted to capture Tunnel View during the "golden hour". The combination of colors and shadows are so beautiful to me. This photo came out just as I had hoped it would.Equipment
It has been said that the best camera is the one you have in your hand, or pocket. This photo was taken with the camera on my Pixel 2 phone without a tripod or any other equipment.Inspiration
The famous Yosemite photographer, Ansel Adams, took one of his iconic black and white photos from Tunnel View. I have always admired his work! While this photo isn't black and white I think it captures the magic and beauty of Yosemite.Editing
It's rare to capture a landscape photo and not have to do at least a little bit of post-processing. This photo was no exception. I processed it twice in Snapseed, my go-to app for editing photos on my phone. After trying a black and white edit, in addition to the color edit, I decided I liked the color edit best. Here are the steps I took. First, I increased the sharpness and structure. Then I increased the brightest, contrast, saturation, and ambiance. Next I added a vignette. Finally, after I saved that edit I added an HD filter and adjusted it until I was satisfied with the final product. Last of all, I saved the final version of my photo.In my camera bag
Lately, I have been experimenting with phone only photography. I really don't like carrying around a lot of gear most of the time. If I do take out my Canon EOS Rebel T5, I always have my Canon 50mm prime lens; it's definitely my favorite lens. I will also carry my Canon 70-200mm zoom lens, just in case I need it to capture something a bit farther than my 50mm can handle. Sometimes I'll take a tripod along if I know I'm going to need it. I also have a table tripod that I actually use a bit more than my standard tripod.Feedback
Yosemite National Park has many amazing places and things to photograph, water falls, lakes, mountains, rock formations, meadows, rivers, and wildlife. Each season also has its own special beauty. Sunrise and sunset are great times for taking some amazing photos. Plan ahead by taking into consideration what season it is and what parts of the park are open or accessable. Since it is a tourist place, depending on the season, plan for crowds and make sure to figure in extra travel time during peak tourist season (May - September). Bring warm clothes, even in the summer, as it can be quite chilly in the early morning and late evening. Most of all, be patient, enjoy the beauty, and have a great time capturing some amazing moments!
