A Perfect Storm

[Guy Schmickle]

Hi all...a newbie here with my first post. Thanks to Doug Sherman for bringing this community to my attention. I do recognize a number of names here from days gone by in the Fred Miranda landscape forum. For my first post, I figured I show off some of the craziest storm light I've ever witnessed (with a camera in my hands anyway). This was taken up on Schnebly Hill looking back towards my hometown of Sedona, Arizona. Wave after wave of monsoon storms came at me that afternoon and evening. I got extremely lucky when a final wave came at me just as the sun was setting to create some incredible conditions. It made the harrowing drive back down the washed out 4x4 road somewhat bearable anyway!

 

[BarryHamilton]

Whoa! That's a stunner!

 

[M_J_Helin]

That is awesome! I would prefer a bit less saturation, but that's just me

 

[beavens]

That is awesome! I would prefer a bit less saturation, but that's just me

Agreed - a bit heavy on sat/contrast but holy jeez what a gorgeous scene.

Well-captured Guy!

I've visited AZ twice and cannot wait to get back.

Jeff

 

[MonikaC]

Crazy light! Have to agree on the saturation level. The hair on the back of your neck (& maybe head) must have been standing up!

 

[Darcy Grizzle]

Wow that is beautiful & amazing light you captured!

 

[Guy Schmickle]

Crazy light! Have to agree on the saturation level. The hair on the back of your neck (& maybe head) must have been standing up!

I actually shot this from the back of my suv because of the lightning all around me. Thanks for the comments everyone!

 

[Zeph]

Just Awesome, Congrats.
The rain infused light on the right is a bit hot

 

[AlanLichty]

Wow - storms like this never seem to happen around me when I have a camera. Nice introduction and welcome.

 

[Ben Egbert]

Fantastic, and the saturation is just fine to me.

 

[JimFox]

Hey Guy,

Welcome to FocalWorld! What a fantastic intro post, just out of this world good!

I am with Ben, I think the saturation is perfect. Saturation is often something where it's common for people to either want more or less of it at times. For me, knowing the sun is setting and side lighting the clouds and rain, I think your choice is just right.

 

[Guy Schmickle]

I am with Ben, I think the saturation is perfect. Saturation is often something where it's common for people to either want more or less of it at times. For me, knowing the sun is setting and side lighting the clouds and rain, I think your choice is just right.

Yep, I realize that there are people on both sides of the fence concerning color saturation...it's a matter of preference. Doing art shows over the years, I've come to the conclusion that most buyers prefer colors on the saturated side so that's where my images have graduated to. I can appreciate those who would like scenes as natural as possible though.

 

[Leslie Hunter]

So beautiful!

 

[Jameel Hyder]

Wonderful image, there is definitely a trend towards more saturated imagery as seen on sites like 500px. I'd have probably toned down just a tad. Who is to argue with those who are voting with their dollars though.

 

[Kyle Jones]

My first thought was "Oh My!!". My second thought is about the same. Really awesome shot.

 

[Jeffrey]

A fabulous image in all ways. Welcome!

 

[JimFox]

Congrats on the Daily Featured Post Guy!

 

[lionking]

WOW!
That is some entrance.
Welcome to FW, great work.

 

[lightsgood]

Welcome Guy! We are thrilled to have you here! Days like this are rare gifts. You captured it well! Stunning image!

 

[Jim Dockery]

"OMG!" burst out when I first saw this. I disagree with those who think this is over saturated, like Jim said, with the setting sun and everything going on in this scene it feels perfect - desert sunsets can truly be super saturated and spectacular - this is one of the best examples I've ever seen. You're a lucky guy to live right in the area, I've always wanted to visit the desert SW in monsoon season but the heat keeps me away.