Nature Photographers Network
This is the preserved archive of the original Nature Photographers Network. The community continues at naturephotographers.network.
Extinguished
‹ PreviousMan & Nature GalleryNext ›

Extinguished

by Paula LeVay

Gallery: Man & NaturePosted May 18, 20184,449 views4 comments
Recently on a camping trip through Utah and Arizona, my husband and I hiked along the South Fork of Mule Canyon, near Blanding, Utah, where we explored several ruins and granaries that we had photographed on a trip to the area several years ago.   We visited a ruin there that has been referred to by some as "House on Fire" because of the unusual rock overhang that when lit by reflected light gives the appearance of flames shooting up from the ceiling.  I was a little disappointed with my images that I took there, mainly because the light did not reflect as dramatically as I had remembered.  Also, increased popularity of the site prevented any quiet moments to reflect on the people who had left behind these reminders of their ingenuity. 

I'll post both color and b & w images, but I prefer the b & w because, to me, it better represents a sense of reverence and respect that I feel for the people who have since moved on.

5D M III
17-40
35 mm
f 9
1/250
iso 640
Handheld

Comments and Criticisms always appreciated.







 

Comments

4 comments
Comment posted by Paula LeVay on May 18, 2018 at 4:32 PM
Color version, comments appreciated!
Registered on July 29, 2016, 66 Posts, 270 Comments
Comment posted by Mark Seaver on May 18, 2018 at 5:18 PM
Paula, I like both versions.  To me, the b&w creates a sense of a big storm over the ruin.  I like how you've handled the tonality of the rock overhang.  The color version looks great as well and captures the sense of fire that give rise to the common name.  If you wanted more drama in the color version you might bump the saturation in the overhang, subtly, and burn in the stone walls and foreground, but I be happy with the view posted.
Registered on January 23, 2011, 1103 Posts, 17270 Comments
Comment posted by Ed Williams on May 27, 2018 at 5:51 PM
I agree with Mark Paula.  These both have very strong qualities and a totally different mood.
Registered on December 28, 2010, 636 Posts, 3499 Comments
Comment posted by Jan Bostelman on June 21, 2018 at 11:41 AM
I like both images as well great angle to look at this. Lived in New Mexico and often found ourselves hiking out to remote areas to get shots. I like stark contrast with the openings as well. 
Registered on April 9, 2018, 24 Posts, 34 Comments