"Merced River Blues"

During a time when the immensity of the location seems to direct my camera, I find it difficult to steer my gear in a different direction. I have to remind myself that often times, the more interesting scene is much less obvious. This scene is more suggestive or implied. It pulls your gaze downward instead of upward to identify what is beyond the river. In fact, it almost forces you to look in two directions, first looking up, only to see that the answer lies below. Because the snowy part of the scene was in the shade, the cool blues dominate that portion, while the warmer palette prevails beyond the shade. The final ingredient was the fallen leaves and pine needles across the bottom of the frame, giving the scene a splash more color without being distracting. This scene strengthens with detail, so make sure to utilize the Larger preview!

You're right about the larger version.  I particularly like the pine needles at the bottom.  A typical image from you that is virtually flawless with a super composition and attractive color. 

A minor nit and just to be hyper-critical, I was wondering whether you consider doing some corrections to align objects with their reflections vertically when using wide angles that aren't pointed horizontally? 

Thanks Dave! Actually, no! I see your point, and perhaps the image would have more balance, but I don't find it distracting nor do I feel it is negating any qualities of the image. I hope someday my budget will fatten up enough to purchase a quality TS lens, which could probably alleviate this optical challenge in camera, among other challenges inherent in wide angles. Thanks for the suggestion!!

Magnificent - taken at sunrise?  The reflections seem to hold the promise of beautiful new day.  Your analysis of the scene is spot on.  Kind regards, Margo.

Oh, I agree, it's not really negating any qualities of the image but it's very easy to do in post so no need to bust the budget if at some point it does become a distraction ;-)

Best regards Mark!

PDE

Very nice, great compo and nice colors. 

The large version really brings out the beauty of this photograph. 7/7

I really like this photo, the water reflection makes this image special.

You used this reflection masterfully. Love the interplay bewteen the warm reflected rock and the snow coveerd trees and ground.

What I especially like was included in your intro:  the reflection gives a hint as to what lies beyond, and the fact that the gold color integrates well but extends the cool and foggy blue is especially appealing.