Top Hat Sky (view large version)

A shot of one of the capped spires at Stud Horse Point. Let me know what

you think of the composition and processing. Thanks in advance for your

comments.

I think this really needs context.  Put yourself in the shoes of a viewer who has never been to a place like this -- that person will likely have no clue whatsoever as to what this is.  It would do well in a book that talks about odd rock formations, but then it would have a different kind of context:  the book itself.  I personally think the beauty of this rock formation comes partly (and a very significant part) from its surroundings.  I think this is perhaps a case where the photographer (Paul) was there and experienced all of the elements of that landscape, and when you see your own photograph, all of the memories of your experience in that landscape will come flooding back, and you will have that mental context for your photo.  The person who has never been to a place like this will not have the mental context, and the photo will remain a complete mystery.  Is this what you want for your photographs?

You've got your camera pointed up towards a very bright sky, and the underside of the rock is probably in significant shade.  Yet you were able to show a lot of detail there, and that's good processing skills.  So I think the composition is lacking, but the processing is great.  My $0.02.

Once again you make some extremely valid points, Stephen.  I am most likely going to put together a book on the Southwest trip, and if I do I will definitely include more panoramic photos from this area to provide the context.  You are really giving me a lot to think about, and I really appreciate your feedback.  Thanks for this.