I have struggled with this shot. I’m getting just about as tired of re-working it as you are tired of looking at it. Two other versions had good criticism which I worked into this final edit. No Orton, no light painting and no HDR (I don’t even know how to do HDR) If it still sucks, I apologize. Please just quietly pity me and look away.
The moment this represents means more than the image itself. Many times, I’m running around from here to there, trying to find a great perspective. Here at Thunderstorm Arch in Valley of Fire, Nevada, I had 2 hours to just sit and think. I hoped I wouldn’t see another person pop up from the valley and I got my wish. I turned on my iPhone music and just sat there looking out at God’s creation. It was amazing.
I fired off shot after shot as the sun set. Dustin LeFevre just posted this same image and commented on the closure of the park. I’m usually compliant with rules and regulations. But, I pushed it here. The ranger does come around with a loudspeaker telling everyone to leave by sunset. But, as I get older, my hearing just isn’t that good. And the hip I busted on a motorcycle is past warranty now slowing my speed down to a crawl.
To be fair to park management, there has been a lot of vandalism at the park. The Windstone Arch made famous by David Muench has graffiti on nearby rock walls. I understand kicking people out, but it would be nice to perhaps have 30 minutes after sunset.
But, you have to visit this place. It’s hard to believe that such a wonderful place is just an hour from Las Vegas.
Have a wonderful week and again thanks to those who gave advice on this one.
Sig Nordal 