Big Pine Basin, John Muir Wilderness (Sierra Nevada)

[jeffkohn]

The challenging hike up into Big Pine Basin was probably the high point of our Sierra Nevada Trip: dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and after a bit of waiting even some nice clouds. We got off to an early start so we pretty much had the place to ourselves until the hike back down. We went as far as Third Lake, but Second Lake had the best views.

C&C always welcome. Click on images for gallery page with exif/lens/gps info.

Second Lake, Big Pine Basin, John Muir Wilderness



Temple Crag, Big Pine Basin, John Muir Wilderness

[groovyone]

Stunning location. My only nitpick with #1 is the lake ending on the left. I don't know why but my eye keeps going to that left edge. Maybe it is because that tree cuts that section off from the rest. I like the composition of #2 better. The tree closer to the edge helps my nitpick with #1, and I like the more "agressive" composition with the peaks more the center of attention vs the lake, and the great sky just add to the feeling. I do love the color in #1, but agree the B&W works very well for #2 with that composition and the clouds.

Hopefully that was mildy coherent.

[jeffkohn]

Thanks Keith, I appreciate the feedback. I see what you're saying about the color shot. To be honest I don't remember if shooting it this way was intentional to keep something ugly out of the frame, or just an oversight.

[Melany]

Wow -- I love the color of that water!!! The B/W is pretty, I'd probably like it better if I hadn't seen the colored version first. It's a shame to see that converted.

[Stargazer77517]

Only comment I would make Jeff is what Keith pointed out, but I do like the color one.

[ifly223]

Wow, now that's a sight. : )

[jeffkohn]

James - Thanks!

Fred - thanks for the feedback.

Melany - Thanks. The glacial lake was striking, and made the decision of color vs B/W more difficult for the Temple Crag shot. In the end I decided for a more dramatic interpretation in B/W, but it was touch decision. I normally don't show color versions once I decided on B/W for an image, but since I did a full workup in color before deciding, I'll go ahead and show the color version.

[lhdvies]

Wow-you are something-love these shots!!!
I really like the color on both photos & with the great comp on the B & W it is really dramatic!!!
Truly excellent work!

[jeffkohn]

Thanks for the kind words Leon