
Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III__EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM__1/2 sec at f / 9.5__ISO 100
Last week, I need to make a run to The Ansel Adams Gallery to deliver prints. I timed the drive so I could check out Horsetail Falls at sunset. There was some nice light early on, well before sunset, and then clouds came in so it looked like a bust. But the water lit up nicely right at sunset. Average light = average photo.
I have been photographing the falls since 1981, with a poster being published of my first session in 1988. Wish I could find a jpg of it to share! I’ll have to scan the film someday soon… There is a photo of Horsetail in my Yosemite: The Promise of Wildness book, too. I have probably photographed it less than ten times since 1981, so you can tell I haven’t spent much time focused on this event. I prefer to seek out more intimate views of Yosemite. Still, it is amazing to me to see how many people are showing up to photograph it and it is a wonderful site to see and experience. I remembering seeing the original Firefalls off of Glacier Point, but this natural event is much more appealing to me.
I made some other photos of the falls, earlier in the evening with shiny cliffs and no color in an attempt to come up a fresh perspective. I haven’t decided if they are worth sharing yet… Stay tuned!
AND, Happy Birthday Ansel! Read my thoughts about him here: Thoughts on Ansel.

February 23, 2010 at 4:07 PM
Thanks for sharing in such a down to earth manor. I love your work! Keep inspiring me! Georgie
February 22, 2010 at 12:15 PM
I dig the triangular lines in the composition, how the sky somehow equals the forground with of course some magic light in the middle. It’s quiet. I like it.
February 20, 2010 at 2:18 PM
Seems like a beautiful place. The light in Your picture is delicious 🙂