"The Color of Snow"

When I was a young lab technician, our goal with snow scenes much like this was to bring neutrality to the snow, correcting the color cast to make it white or gray. So what is the color of snow? Is it just white and gray. Is water blue? Does it look blue right before you drink it from a glass. Maybe if it's in a blue glass! Funny, but our eyes are so efficient that when we see snow in the shade, most of us would concur that it is indeed white. But snow is only as white as the light that is reflecting from it is. When the ambient light of pre-dawn is reflecting from it, however, it takes on a whole different hue. This is one of the reasons I attempt to photograph snow at sunrise; to capture it when the ambient light brings out a unique palette. This image would be fine if corrected. It could even make a profound black and white image. I think it is also fine just as it is, although I know some will find the cast objectionable. I say it is what it is!

Mark,

I would agree with you here, I've experienced just the same thing with snow and colour casts. This shot however is different from the last one you posted.

The cast here is not as strong and does have a much more natural believable look compared to the previous shot.

Cheers, Dave.

cast or not, this is downright gorgeous. Thanks!

Thanks David and Gregory! For sure, this is closer to real, The previous image may have been pushed further, but it's all a recipe really. To me, RAW files are all in need of processing, more than just whites and blacks, but a certain amount of color needs to be re-infused if you will. How much is often just personal taste. In truth, all of my RAW files from my Pentax were very strong in blue/cyan at this time of day, so I always reached for the white balance slider. The Canon has a more natural look, but still leans blue in this ambient light. Leads one to believe that the camera may have it right, but we still want white snow. BTW, David, the previous image does look great in b&w, so that may be coming soon. I appreciate it!!

Thank you for your comments and thoughts on the color of snow, and the more technical details, all of which are helpful and interesting. This place has been shot perhaps millions of times, but this photo in particular is one of the most stunning I have seen, and that is why I wanted to congratulate you. The shadows and the sharpness of the snowed pines, plus the overcast sky give this image a very beautiful general aspect. 

DG

Absolutely amazing. 

Absolutely amazing

I love the way snow brings out the detail in evergreens, just as you have here.  Summer blends the greens way too much for me, winter makes them come alive.  Fantastic shot.  The cast is perfect.

Stillness and grace with a touch of mystery. Magnificent.

Perfect! /7/

Very good composition and lights!!!

Wow, beautiful scene with great mood and colors!

This is an outstanding image, an easy 7/7 from me. 

Best regards. 

Mark,

It is perfect. Congratulations! Your hard work has paid off again.

David

Hi Mark, This is absolutely GLORIOUS!  I've been there a few times...and wish I lived closer.  You captured a magical moment.  The soft lighting and colors are superb...and the misty fogs just sends this over the top.  Beautiful!!!

Excellent indeed.  Sharp and impressive.  Best regards,

Amazing picture, Yosemite been photographed so many times, but this photo is one of the very best!

Poetry and dreamy scenE,.thanks for sharing.