The Wizard's Eye

Joshua Tree NP

I shot this right next to the well known arch in the White Tank campground this past March. I wouldn't of came across the thing if I didn't stop and chat with this elderly couple about their 4 month trip around the desert in their folding Westfalia van.

Dam Harley has me going on the black and white conversions!

Steve,

I really like the color original. The chief feature of what makes the rock interesting is lost in the B&W.

Craig

I am a fan of the B&W version. The tones and contrast are nice and it has a good sense of mystery to it.

Careful, it is a slippery slope. Next thing you know, you will be shooting B&W film.

Gee...I can't decide ...I like both! The color contrast in the first version brings the subject forward. The B&W conversion emphasizes the textures in the rock and does add mystery.

Bob

Well, for me it's color.... .....as if that would be a surprise. Also, I think "Eye of the Needle" works as a name too, Steve.

And, by planning ahead using one of the sun/moon calculation programs, it might just be possible to thread the "Eye of the Needle" with the sun or moon at some period during the year!?

Bob

The moon being allot closer to the earth than the sun would be a cinch to frame in the eye. I like both as well.

Paul

I've been to JTNP but never found anything like this.
Great lighting and exposure. I like both versions.

Steve, What a cool image, either B&W or color works for me. All of your night images have me thinking one of these days I'll have to give it a try. I really like the way you framed this shot. Best Regards.

Thanks guys, to elaborate where this is it's directly south about 25 yards in the same little slot that runs north and south where the main arch is.

Harley, last BW film I shot was T max (400?) nice grain on it. 35mm too bad it's likely degrade beyond an 11x14 print but I guess it's a lot easier to sell a small print.

Steve, I can’t resist offering a slightly less serious title, which I’m now unable to avoid thinking of when ever I view this image, “Flipin’-off the Moon”!

I sure hope this doesn't 'stick' or the unofficial name of this landmark might become "Flipin' Rock"!

Bob

Lol Bob, that is funny! Oh, I forgot, great idea about the moon in the hole but what would you name that?

Don't know, Steve. Shoot it and I'm sure my demented mind will come up with a title.

A little long but catchy, how about...
"When the Moon Hits Your Eye Like a Big Pizza Pie That's Amore"

Bob