cramerimaging

Asgardian Treasure

Bryce Canyon, Utah, US

upload_date

Jan, 2022

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Behind The Lens

Location

I took this photo from the rim of Bryce Canyon where this iconic hoodoo is visible from.

Time

I took this photo one warm evening on June 11, 2019. I found a space along the rim next to many others photographing the unique view.

Lighting

I took this photo around sunset. I wanted soft and even light. However, thanks to the sun setting far enough, this famous spot was already in the shade of the canyon wall.

Equipment

I shot this photo with a Nikon D7200 and a Tamron 70-300mm lens. I also had my Vanguard tripod with an Espod Plus 233 AP head and my Nikon MC-DC2 trigger release to round out the equipment. That's all I used.

Inspiration

I wanted to find and photograph this iconic landmark within Bryce Canyon National Park and add the photo to my portfolio. I used a GPS to locate the hoodoo, which ended up standing VERY close to the rim. However, many people look down and don't see it for themselves. I wanted to hike down the trail that day and get a more traditional view at eye level or even below the rocks. However, that wasn't happening. So, I decided to try a shot from the rim of the canyon. It's still the famous hoodoo which we call Thor's Hammer. But it's a less traditional view having been shot from above.

Editing

Thanks to the falling light conditions, this photo required exposure and color correction. I also added a vignette to help the viewer focus on the hoodoo named Thor's Hammer rather than on the surrounding red rocks and trees.

In my camera bag

I carry a Nikon D7200 rather permanently attached to a Custom Brackets Digital Pro-E flash bracket. I love the ease which this high end flash bracket allows me to switch from landscape to portrait mode on a tripod and back again. It makes life in the field so much easier for me. My go-to lenses are the Nikkor 18-55mm kit lens and a Tamron 70-300mm telephoto lens with 1:2 macro capabilities. These have served me faithfully for several years in photography. I also pack a Nikkor 50mm prime for those times when I need f/1.8. I also carry a Nikon Speedlight SB-700 for those times when natural light just isn't enough. My Hoodman hood-loupe, highly recommended by Scott Kelby, also goes with me. With it, I can see what my camera screen is showing me even in exceedingly bright light which would otherwise prevent me viewing my newly taken photos. My sling bag does get heavy with all this gear, but I know that I'm prepared for all kinds of photo opportunities.

Feedback

This is an easy shot to get with the right equipment and spot to stand. I recommend taking it in the shade as I did. The morning after sunrise will backlight it and direct sunlight will cast deep shadows in places you might not want shadows.

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cramerimaging

cramerimaging

Asgardian Treasure

Behind The Lens

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