Andrew's Pyramid

Yesterday morning I went up to Andrew's Tarn up above the Loch in RMNP for sunrise. It is a place with a lot of great rock formations. I shot this at 17mm with my 5D and was as wide as I could go. As usual, there were no clouds to work with. I'd appreciate your comments and suggestions on this one. Thanks!

Here's an alternate vertical version, taken a little earlier in the morning.

I appreciate you avoiding the temptation to make that sky as dark as deep space. Really nice comp, and the way that shadowy pinnacle on the left counterbalances the rightward lean of the main subject is nothing short of brilliant.

I like the horizontal much better. I agree with Todd about the counterbalance in this shot and as usual, your exposure is right on...nice job!

Jack

Well I'm going to be contrary and say that I prefer the vertical shot better.

Same here, I like the vertical. The pyramid seems more imposing there, I like the feel of standing in the sweep of the stream, and it feels a little more 3-D to me. Both fine shots, though!

oh my, that vertical one is really nice, I much prefer it over the horizontal.

Erik,

Both are very nice. Very Nice golden light. If I must choose a favorite I think I prefer the horizontal one.
I really like the red brownish flowers? that you included on the shoreline. Excellent comps on both.

First off, great shot and composition, and exposure. I prefer the horizontal as presented, if the vertical version had more of the Peak in the frame I would probably prefer it, but it feels like part of the left shoulder is cut off.

I like 'em both, Erik. Really a dramatic peak there. A tad more room at the top of this one would be nice as the peak feels a little cramped up there. Aside from that minor little critique - awesome!

Ditto Bret's comments - they both work well, though a little more room at the top of this one would be nice; not critical, but helpful. If you need a little more room for matting/framing, and if it doesn't offend your sensibilities, you could always add more sky at the top digitally. As is, I'd go for the vertical - to me it feels more dramatic with a stronger lead-in.

Not much more to add that hasn't been said Erik. The only other suggestion is if you want clouds, take Todd with you

Pam

Nice shot! Love the early light and the details in the rocks.

Nice shot! Love the early light and the details in the rocks.

Mentioning the 17mm lens really puts this into perspective... you must have been looking straight up! The mountain looks really imposing, almost disconcertingly so, if the angle is as steep as I think it is.