Conditions must be just right for Sequoia seedlings to germinate and make their way into the rich and fertile soil. Among groves of Sequoia, stands of these conifers collect together in a relatively small area of space. The Sequoia’s seed bearing cones fall to the ground where the seeds make their way through the duff, pine needles and soil to become fertilized by the elements.
Making A Stand
The floor of a glacial canyon wouldn’t lead you to believe you’re surrounded by walls as they extend some large distance. It’s only when you’re following them on each side you’re able to understand the context in which you’re in. This image represents a canyon wall and not a prominent peak or point of interest.
Wall To Wall
Sometimes, when looking at a scene or image, it takes time before you’re able to see what it is really saying. Or to get a sense of what it means. Here is a captured view of Yosemite Falls alongside a trail and drainage that leads to the top. While not obvious, this image was taken from on top of another dome from across Yosemite Valley. On the South rim of the valley where this is viewed, the falls are on the North rim.
Point of Convergence
Sometimes you can find the best light in the most inconspicuous places. Where the light’s direction is going, where it reflects or spreads, and how it applies color from its spectrum makes for some of the best impressions made. Knowing how to find the best light quality and knowing when it appears increases the likelihood of what drama or beauty you’ll see. Regardless of your physical location.
The mysterious Mt Watkins. Tucked back behind the more prominent features of Yosemite Valley. Standing opposite of Half Dome along the Tenaya Canyon, it has a character all its own. For generations, you see sketches and photos of this monolith in Yosemite without as much fanfare or notoriety as the others such as El Cap, Three Brothers, Sentinel Royal Arches, and Half Dome.
A new and soft covering of snow in a relatively safe wilderness place can be an inspiring experience to have. The landscape entirely changes in character and appearance. The wilderness beauty before you takes a different shape and feel as compared to prior seasons.
Snowfall
Winter rivers in Yosemite are often frozen and slow moving. Except when heavy rains come and the river runs high and fast. As demonstrated by the flooding in 1997 that wiped out a camp ground, bridges and other features in the park.
Winter River
Where the granite once was can spark imagination and wonder. Imagine that boulders, stones, rocks, and terrain at the highest elevations were once below the surface of the earth, or much lower before rising to the heights we now see.
Ancient Granite
While from above this Sierra canyon doesn’t appear all that significant, one must have a sense of proportion to compare by. This Kings River fork which cuts in three directions is the deep and lasting impression made. Replenished and nurtured by storms, snowfall and rainfall, this canyon’s slopes remain more vegetated as compared to the Eastern side of the Sierra range.
Deep Canyon
When you see a “V” shaped valley, that normally means the landscape was carved by a river that runs through it. As compared to a “U” shaped valley, which was formed by a glacier. The length of time for the land to form by the force of water is very long and the depression left all the way to lower elevations is unmistakable.
Carved Valley
After a while, the trail you’re on can become hidden or less obvious to follow. When that happens, I generally mark where I am at and begin to explore around to see if it becomes obvious again. That comes with more risk, but it generally works great before I have to give up on the trail completely.
This is a photo I took of Castle Rock with the midday sun bearing upon it. After taking some more advanced lessons in Photoshop, I learned how to paint with light. That is what it took to say something visually more than what the harsh light washed out. Not completely satisfied with the results, but it is a learning experience nonetheless. I am getting better at handling my images with light and color composition.
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