It's near Snoqualmie summit off I-90. Heading east on I-90 take exit 54, Hyak exit. About 60 minutes east of Seattle. The problem is that this area is a reservoir and it's only accessible certain times a year. This was my first year exploring the area. The area drains during the summer and from Late Aug to mid Oct the grass is green, from mid Oct to Nov it turns to a reddish brown and now it's filling with water. I can't wait to go back next year.
Don, there are some beautiful, soft tones and textures in these images, especially the first 2 (N° 3 a liitle on the dark side). As compositions, I think the third image is the more balanced. It is closely followed by N° 2, perhaps focussing strictly on the wonderful grasses and eerie stumps would achieve a stanger, if not stronger, atmosphere. The stump in N° 1, with the rock just next to it, has a lot of presence, and of potential, but I am not convinced by either this image's format (landscape), or the tight crop below and above the stump; perhaps a vertical shot ?
I was not sure what would work and the weather is really hit and miss. So these images are more about planning for next year. You just don't know what you're going to run in to up there, but I have a better idea. I tried some verticals and wide shots and I found isolating the stumps was more pleasing to me. I just had to watch the background since the I-90 highway is in the distance and can be distracting. I think a higher angle would work better. Then I wouldn't have to use a ND gradient filer. This would allow me to capture more of the grass in the background and isolate the stumps more. I would still take the filters in case the sky cooperates.
I especially liked the feel when 2 or 3 or trees have grown together. There's a strange feeling of life there. In Aug these stumps have dried out and the white bleached areas really standout against the long green grass. Moving my viewing angle is going to take some thought. The ground can be muddy and hauling a ladder around will be difficult. Maybe a long monopod will work
Anyway thanks for the suggestions and I will keep them all in mind next year.
Yes! I know this area, as I'm from eastern Washington State. I'd say you've done a fine job of capturing the bizarre feel of the area. I, too, have seen it both dry and flooded. 2nd shot is my favorite of the bunch.
Wow these images are like nothing I have ever seen. There is a great touch of artistry in your pp here. I feel like I can really touch the images through my screen.
