Here's a straggler from August. I've known about these sandstone arches for some time, but I hadn't been able to photograph them due to their location (on the opposite side of a river from the trail access). Rapids line most of this river, so swimming across with 30+ pounds of camera gear didn't seem like a very bright idea. During a moment of inspiration, while on the way home from a trip up to the boundary waters canoe area wilderness this past summer, with a canoe in tow, I decided to give it a try. To get to this spot, I had to canoe up the river from a downstream boat launch about a mile.
It was fun to see the river from a different perspective, and once I finally got to the arches, I was kicking myself for not pursuing it sooner. There are a number of arches along this area, and this image was made beneath one while looking through another that borders the river. Compositional options were very limited, and this seemed to be the best option. The dynamic range was a nightmare, so I used color negative film to help keep the shadows as open as possible. Thankfully, there was no wind, and I was able to pull off the long exposure I needed. As always, thanks for looking.
Wow! You nailed a location and the shot! As much as I enjoy getting those wonderful shots that anyone else can get, these locations that require extra effort and are unique are the truly special photos - good work.
CJ - I'll take a virtual kick instead, thanks. I should have been here last fall ! Although I do like the green/red contrasts here.
Posted by scott lanz on October 17, 2008 at 12:50 PM
A very nice image of a very unique place. Both the light and your exposure were perfect for holding the details in the scene, and I like how you framed the arches.
Outstanding shot under what looks like very difficult lighting conditions. I like the reflections and how the water came out. I'll bet this would be an outstanding fall shot as well.
Posted by Darren Huski on October 19, 2008 at 5:41 PM
Joel-
A very nicely done image of a unique area. I really like it when people can present an image the really is a "new" area and I think you have one here. Great job.
I am also impressed with how well Portra handled the shadows and highlights. It was probably too much contrast for Astia but I am impressed with the Portra for doing this well.
Great story too with using the canoe to get there. I appreciate what it took to do!
Posted by Toni Lankerd on October 20, 2008 at 9:39 AM
Excellent exposure, Joel. Taking a canoe through there was a great idea...do it more often now, will you?
Posted by Bernie Kasper on October 22, 2008 at 3:42 PM
The reflections and color in the water really make this Joel, beautiful work !!
Discussion
9 repliesIt was fun to see the river from a different perspective, and once I finally got to the arches, I was kicking myself for not pursuing it sooner. There are a number of arches along this area, and this image was made beneath one while looking through another that borders the river. Compositional options were very limited, and this seemed to be the best option. The dynamic range was a nightmare, so I used color negative film to help keep the shadows as open as possible. Thankfully, there was no wind, and I was able to pull off the long exposure I needed. As always, thanks for looking.
Technicals: Tachihara 4x5, Fujinon 90mm, Kodak Portra 160nc, 30 sec @ f32
Tim!
This is outstanding, and the neg film did you lots of favors on the overall detail. I really like this one a lot - a truly unique image. Nicely done!
CJ
CJ - I'll take a virtual kick instead, thanks. I should have been here last fall
A very nicely done image of a unique area. I really like it when people can present an image the really is a "new" area and I think you have one here. Great job.
I am also impressed with how well Portra handled the shadows and highlights. It was probably too much contrast for Astia but I am impressed with the Portra for doing this well.
Great story too with using the canoe to get there. I appreciate what it took to do!