Kintail

The 'Five Sisters of Kintail' seen from Sgurr an Airgid on a beautiful

winter afternoon. All comments appreciated.

or not?

Images from mountain tops were very popular not too long ago but you don't see so many these days. I think they still have a big pull for the non photographic world at large but are not so popular with photographers. Personally I love climbing mountains but I can't help feeling that the higher I get, the further I am going from all the interesting smaller scale things that I love to see in photographs. Is it worth sacrificing trees, flowers, water etc for one big view shot from the top? I would love to know what you think.

I, for one, still like such shots, and you have done a very nice job with this one. Keep up the good work. Though I'm not a climber of mountains, I am very much attracted to them. And always have been, despite living in the flatlands of Florida. -Jim

Simon, as for this particular shot it's stunning with lots of depth and crisp morning colours! As for such shots in general I don't seem to be tired of them either as long as you don't overlook the photo opportunities on your way up to the summit, because I enjoy both types. Regards, Sandris

Your shots are always perfect, regarding all the aspects of photography. And this is another good example! What I like here: beautiful warm side-light, interesting foreground (the yellow rock), 3D sky with interesting clouds pattern, stunning background, overall DOF, shadows and highlights details...

At first sight I would have suggested to open a bit the shadows in the valley, since I love that fragment of sky reflected in the water, but at least I think your version is more natural, since it was a high contrast scene.

You know, I like simple and essential compositions and I this the high mountains environment provides good opportunities to achieve this goal, so keep up the good work!

All the best, Alberto.

Popular or not.... I really like this image. First the composition is perfect to me and the view is fantastic. This added to the quality of your work can only make this image a popular success. Regards, Jean-Marc

The majesty of these grand shots is hypnotic. It's just hard to stop looking at them, whether in person or in images such as this and I love them. A really beautiful scene and capture, Simon.... Mike

 

 

This one works beautifully! I am like you, I am instantly drawn to the commanding view from on high. Sometimes they can disappoint, because a two dimensional rendition will never compete with the three dimensional real thing. However, having snow capped peaks with clouds hanging below the summits instantly communicates the scale. Having some foreground framing also helps convey a sense of depth and scale. The final touch you have added here is the miniscule road below. All of those factors (all of them are present here) make for a successful grandiose image from an elevated perch. Very dramatic rendering Simon!

Gorgeous!

Simon I just love the shots from the top of the mountains. Wether it is popular at the moment or fashion who cares. Its like the sea shore shots with rocks and waves, while the sun sets or rises. They just look good as do the top of mountain shots. I must admitt, I also feel the views on the way up or the way down can often me more interesting but you have the chance to shoot them as well. But you can only be in one place at a time when the sunsets or rises. The weather changes so fast at the top and there are many times when it just is not perfect for the shots. Also when the sun is down you still need to get home in the dark. Not always so safe or easy. There is also the satifaction of being on the top of a mountain alone that is just a beautifull feeling.