Arizona Sunsets

While the wildflowers are sparse at best this year, the sunsets continue to be a wonderful sight. Here is first from Gates Pass, near Tucson.

Seeking comments and critiques to help me become better.

Bill Brennan

This is a very nice sunset, but the composition doesn't really intrigue me. Even though it would be somewhat of a cliche' shot, I think I'd like this better if you moved up real close to one of the big cacti and had a big, dark silhouette of the cactus in front of the vibrant clouds. Also, you might boost the contrast with an S-Curve

That looks like a fantastic sunset. I also like that you kept the hillside and cactus dark as graphic elements. I do like Grant's suggestions. Did you shoot any shots closer?

That's one fiery sunset!
Cropping an inch from the right (up to just before that tall lone cactus) would reduce the preponderance of negative space and make for a better balance, IMO.

Really appreciate the thoughts and suggestions. As for getting up closer, it would be a challenge as the cactus are located across a valley from my location. However, there are many locations where it could be accomplished.

Bill Brennan

People may say that "Silhoute'ed Saguaros at Sunset" are all too cliche, but when you have a dramatic sky like that Bill, it can definitely be a winner. I like silhouettes, in fact a lot, but maybe there's just a bit to much black in that right bottom section. I like John Mumaw's suggestion, trimming a little of the fat away would probably set it right in place. But I can also guarantee that someone would tell me I'm nuts, that the dark section makes the shot. Due to the shape you would have lost the left side if you panned up so given the landscape I think you did well. One thing to try next time is take a second image with about three stops more exposure and then layer the two shots and bring in some of the detail of the land, not bright, just enough so the eye sees some texture in the landscape. Maybe. I dunno, that sky is super great. Anyway, if you print this, make sure you use thick stock, that black section will get a little wavy on you. Nice work!

Bill, I like the inclusion of that lovely blue sky at the top of the image. Gates Pass is a special place and well worth a return trip for you and ME.

I actually like the image the way it is. Nice sunset!