"Bierstadt's Light"

The pre-sunrise light was excellent, but the actual sunrise was a whole different kind of light. The clouds rolled through but didn't block the sun, creating a stormy like setting. In truth, there was no storm and the air was dead calm. As I made my exposures, I envisioned Albert Bierstadt's paintings from the west and knew this was a likely comparison. I was so busy shooting, I don't believe I took a moment to enjoy it. Perhaps a few momentary sighs, but only for a few seconds. There were only a few people sharing the moment. By the time the light began to fade, the crowd started to show up. Was it breakfast that kept them or was it the snooze button that delayed them. Whatever it was, it must have been more important, if such a thing could be!

My fist post included more space to the left and a tree to frame the scene.

I was pretty certain some would want to get in a little closer, so here ya go!

The Larger preview is a must!

glorious...but I prefer "open gates" version...more drama, more story to read!

easily my favorite of your recent yosemite scenes.....perfect comp and processing Mark...nicely done

Thanks Michael, Leo and Thom!! Michael and Thom, I'm torn between the 4 as to which is my favorite, but would probably go with "open gates" because it was the first scene of a glorious day!! Leo, I have been admiring your new images from the trip, but need to slow down enough to comment in kind. Thanks so much!!

This is truly superb as well.  If this is your 'get' from the Valley you come up 'Aces high!'  Excellent comp, exposure and the processing is impeccable--truly impeccable.  Those clouds are awesome!  Gorgeous photography, Mark!  Cheers!  Chris

Thanks Chris! I have a couple more, one that I think you will like. I tried a few different angles at Tunnel, but some came up short in my eyes. Still, I might process them for grins and giggles if nothing else. 5 hours can fly by when you exploring comps. I have spent very little time in the valley, so some of these vantages were new to me. That may have slowed me down some as well, being unfamiliar!

this is also very good.

Imagine this with flowers .... ;))

Best regards