Posts tagged ‘sathya’

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August 22, 2012

Myrtle Falls adorning the Majestic Mt Rainier

Last weekend (Aug 18, 2012) – 2.5 days, 500 miles of drive, 5 miles of hiking, one national park, camping in the woods, sleeping under the stars, one broken car charger, one dead mobile by end of 1st day, one dead camera by 2nd – quiet a memorable visit to Mt. Rainier National Park. As I’m going thru and processing the images, wanted to share a happy summer shot from the trip.

This week is a classical view of Mt Rainier along with Myrtle falls, from the heart of paradise area. My initial plans was to reach the spot for sunrise which did not work out. Actually it was so overcast and misty that the visibility was literally less than 2 feet during the early morning. By the time I reached the trail head it was around noon and the sun had decided to smile. I was glad to have hiked up to this sweet spot. The scattered clouds helped diffuse the light well enough to capture the moment – with the silky flow and even a small rainbow. The processing on this RAW shot was minimal (Lightroom) – decreased a bit of exposure, increased clarity and added a little vignette to focus on the waterfall. Feel free to share with friends (links at the end of the post), if u like the shot :)

Incase you are interested with the details (not sure how many would be!)
Camera : Canon 7D
Lens : Tamron 18-270mm
Filter : Circular Polarizer + 3 stop Neutral Density Filter
ISO 100 : 18 mm : f22 : 0.3 sec

P.S : I was showing the blog to some of my friends at office and realized how the ads were on the face. I did not realize them to be so on the face, as I always use Ad-blocker on both Firefox and chrome. It was from the blog host WordPress. I have done the needful to remove it. Enjoy the shots without intrusion going forward :)

Buy Print Myrtle Falls
Mt Rainier National Park, Washington, USA

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August 13, 2012

Shooting Star(s) & the Moon, Venus, Jupiter etc.

Sleeping under the stars is an experience unto itself. In addition, being away from the city lights takes on a whole new level of fun, when you start taking star pictures. If u have not done it before, definitely give it a try :) In expectations of capturing a moment of Presides Meteor shower, headed to Trillium lake over last weekend (Aug 11-12, 2012) . Overall the meteor shower was pretty elusive than expected, always managing to put a show where the camera was not pointed. As the night was passing by, was worried that the moon rise (around 1:30 AM) might reduce the possibility of meteor sighting. But I was pretty surprised when everything just lined up just (around 3:30 AM) – the Venus, the Moon and the Jupiter – and even a meteor was adorning the scene. The star cluster you see a little off center on top is Pleiades nebula.

Hope u enjoy viewing as much as I did during the shooting !

Buy Print  Perseids Meteor
Trillium Lake, Mt. Hood, Oregon, USA

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August 9, 2012

Winter Wonderland

Mt. Rainer receives so much snowfall, that u can enjoy spectacular winter scenery like below, even in July. This was shot when I got a chance to drive up last month. My plans of getting a reflection shot of Mt Rainer during sunrise did not go well, with so much snow at Tipsoo Lake. But as I drove up just a mile ahead, was treated with this wonderful scene. I couldn’t have asked for anything more. Just pulled over, parked and spent around an hour to just enjoy the scenery.

The snow probably had melted by now. Couldn’t wait to get back again this month to enjoy some wildflowers and summer hikes. Have you been to Mt Rainer National Park, what is your favorite spot ?!!!

Buy Print   Tipsoo Lake 
Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington, USA

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August 2, 2012

City Of Lights – Seattle

Seattle is a such lively city especially for photographers – located adjacent to water, hills all around, lovely skyline, beautiful S-curves leading to the heart of the downtown area. Love the way how it comes alive at night. Here is one of the scenes for your to enjoy. You can get this view from around Dr Jose P Rizal Bridge. Check here for other shots of Seattle.

Buy Print   Seattle Downtown 
Seattle, Washington, USA

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July 25, 2012

The Eye of London

Getting all pumped for the London Olympics !

This week shot is from a quick stop over at London, from the recent past. In this photo you can see the London Eye (left, obviously :) ) in its full glory and the Palace of Westminster + Clock Tower (right). This was shot from the Millennium Bridge as we were enjoying a leisurely stroll with the cool night’s breeze. Though I was not there long enough to take a ride in the eye, the memories from the short visits to downtown is enough to pull me back there, sometime in future maybe !

Are you visiting London for Olympics ? What is your favorite spot there ?!

Buy Print   London Eye
London, UK

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July 19, 2012

Sunset at Haystack Rock

This week shot is a serene sunset from the iconic Cannon beach, Oregon. If you had been following my work, you would have noticed similar shots from past. Actually this was taken the same day as the earlier shared shot. Indeed these two shots are just 15 minutes and probably 100 feet apart. The light during the golden hour is ever changing and can make all the difference. Also you will be surprised how a few steps can alter the composition of the shot, drastically and dramatically. So the next time when you are shooting, don’t just play with that zoom, make an effort to take a couple of extra steps, literally :)

I like the other shot for the composition (may be because it is more close to the rule of third or the golden spiral) and this one for capturing the serene mood of the evening. Which one do u like, do share below in comments !!!

Buy Print Sunset @ Haystack Rock
Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA

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July 9, 2012

Night out at Mt Rainier

It was one hell of a trip to Mt. Rainier National park last weekend. Trying to take advantage of travelling alone (which happens rarely), was thinking to sleep in the car- probably at a campground or at one of the overnight parking lot. The plan was to stay in the vicinity, to capture the first morning light on Mt Rainier. Being summer, that means being up at the spot by 5 AM. As I was driving towards the sunrise area of Mt Rainer, came across an empty parking lot at Sunrise Point. The view was so good that I decided to night out, right there. Dang it, I did not realize it would be this cold even inside the car. Next time need to carry a sleeping bag too :)

Anyway just as I was getting settled, the stars begin to peep, begging to be captured. I just could not help but take a stroll and set up for this shot. Though it was quiet remote northern part of the park & being atleast an hour+ drive to any established community, was surprised to see as much light pollution on the horizon. To add to it, the moon popped from behind. It was one fiery moon rise. I did want to capture more of the horizon, but the moon was way too bright to be captured along with the stars. Anyway the moonlight did help in lighting up the mountain. This is a panorama of two landscape shots. It is a single exposure (each) stitched together, with slight adjustments on levels and a bit of dodge, to put the the Milky Way on spot light.

It was one hell of an experience – just being one with nature, enjoying the slight cool breeze, shooting at mid night. Here is this week shot, in an attempt to capture that experience. Am sure you like it as much as I do. And by the by this would look amazing on metallic print !

Buy Print Milky Way @ Sun Rise Point
Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington, USA

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June 28, 2012

Things are blue, without you

Sometimes there is a different kind of beauty to things, even when it is seemingly out of focus.
Enjoy life, even at times when those not so coherent pieces of the puzzle take time to align.

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June 21, 2012

Fairy Falls, Oregon

Fairy Falls is located at the Wahkeena Canyon area of the lovely Colombia George Wilderness. The trail starts with some beautiful stonework and a wooden bridge over Wahkeena Creek. The trail to the left leads to Multnomah Falls and the one to the right leads to the Fairy Falls and beyond. Wahkeena Falls and the overflowing creek might not be as popular as the near by Multnomah Falls, but let that not fool you. The Fairy falls is one of the much smaller falls in the George, but is brilliantly beautiful. Even at just 20 feet, the stepped formation creates such a dreamy flow. It is a wonder to watch and just get lost with.

The initial trail has a paved, but pretty steep section – climbing about 600 feet in about 1/2 mile. With about 10+ switchbacks it does drain energy. But once you cross, it is more scenic, wild & enjoyable. The kids definitely would enjoy this as the hike meanders across pseudo bridges and water cascades. It is a little over 2 miles round trip, if you decide to turn back at the Fairy falls. Depending on the season do carry water and chocolates to munch – I sure was glad I did :)

Buy Print   Fairy Falls, Wahkeena Creek Trail
Columbia River George, Oregon, USA

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June 15, 2012

Twilight Blues at Haystack Rock & Needles

I love shooting at Cannon Beach.

It was fun getting this shot. I did not have any waterproof shoes that day and the water was biting cold. So it was more of cat & mouse play with the waves. I had envisioned to get the expanse of the beach and the receding water in the evening twilight. If you look real close you can see the light house too in the far horizon. To get this composition I set the tripod really close and low to the haystack rock. Shooting at 10mm helped capture the length of the beach and the Neutral Density Filter (ND3) helped increase the exposure to 20 seconds. Waiting for the sun to get below the horizon aided to capture the deep blue colors of twilight.

Buy Print Haystack Rock & Needles
Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA

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June 6, 2012

Some Places are just Magical

How can someone compare a 35 foot falls with towering Multnomah Falls at 620 feet. How can such a small falls be treated in par with the Majestic Mt Hood or the iconic crater lake. You should visit the place to really appreciate it. Irrespective of its size, Punchbowl Falls is definitely a classic and iconic Oregon spot. If you have less than a day at Portland and love hiking – Eagle creek Trail definitely tops the list. Based on the time and stamina, you can decide to turn back at Punchbowl Falls (round trip –3.8 miles) or continue all the way up to Tunnel Falls (round trip 12 miles). The experience begins from the parking lot as you get started on the trail. The increase in elevation is pretty gradual. The lovely view of the river, the creeks & bridges, narrow trail (at places, just a little more than a feet) and wild flowers (depending on the season) makes the hike such a pleasure. At about 2 miles you will hit the Punch bowl Falls (upper) view point. This view helps admire the force with which water flows, creating the punchbowl. On the contrary, It is definitely worth hiking the extra mile (take diversion at the lower falls trail) to get this tranquil view.

the place was so serene and dreamy
the water was so clear and cold
thoughts, not so much
feelings, probably abundant
to sum up – it was just magical

Buy Print   Punchbowl Falls, Eagle Creek Trail
Eagle Creek Wilderness, Oregon, USA

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June 3, 2012

Punchbowl Falls

Probably the punchbowl category of falls was defined after this falls at the Eagle creek wilderness, Oregon. The name so aptly fits it. The view point gives a grand view of the punch bowl. Compared to the others in Colombia George like Multnomah or Latourell, this is probably a smaller falls at ~30+ feet. Still it is pretty amazing to see/feel the forces of nature, that has created the punch bowl.

Crossing the line is sometimes good ;-) This was shot from the edge of the ledge, just a couple of feet beyond the fenced barricade.

Buy Print   Punchbowl Falls, Eagle Creek Trail
Eagle Creek Wilderness, Oregon, USA

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May 24, 2012

She is coming

I grab a pen
I drop a cap
I opened a book
and closed it shut.

I kick the sand
and raise some dust.

I run a circle
I do a jiggle
I go up in smoke
I stumbled
I crumbled
I laughed
I cried

someone,
someone …
just told me –
that you are coming :)

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May 17, 2012

Grandiose Gopura of Meenashi Amman Temple, Madurai

Madurai, apart from being my home town, is really famous for many things from soft idles to jasmine flowers to being the birth place of ancient Tamil. Madurai is also synonymous with Meenakshi Amman Temple. Covering an area of 17 acres , the enter city was built around the temple. As you get near the temple the city streets meander and before you realize become lanes within the temple.

Known for its amazing architecture , this temple is one of the most ancient and famous ones in south India. As a kid I have always taken for granted, my visits to this place. When I went to my hometown in the last year, I made it visit this place. I did not have as much as time as I had intended, but still enjoyed it. I really wanted to capture the grandeur of the Gopura, its ornate work, the intricate sculptures from the pillars, the lovely etc colorful paintings on the ceilings etc. I think I succeeded, at least partially. This week shot is one of the 14 Gopuras that adorn the beautiful temple.

Buy Print Meenakshi Amman Temple
Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India

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May 8, 2012

Covert Gem of Oregon – Abiqua Falls

A visit to Abiqua falls is quiet an encompassing experience. It starts with the leisurely silver falls scenic drive from Silverton. Before you could realize, you are navigating over and down the hilly terrain. Yes an ATV would be awesome, but don’t worry you can manage with any decent passenger car, provided you drive slowly. From the parking lot, the walking quickly changes to hike, then a bit of trek, some scramble across the rocks and logs, throw in a bit of sliding, scrambling, dodging the water as you navigate your way based on the falls that you hear at the distance. Falling just at over 100 feet – it is not the biggest of the Oregon falls, but getting the glimpse of this falls after the adventures trek gives a kind of peaceful and serene contentment. It is as if you just entered a different magical world. This weeks I share with you a slice of moment from my visit. The late afternoon sun just lit up the lichen creating the glowing contrast with the falls.

Buy Print Abiqua Falls @ Santiam State Forest
Marion, Oregon, USA

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April 28, 2012

Sunset at Tulip Fields

Cool breeze, Rows and rows of colorful tulips, Lovely clouds, The setting sun dotting the horizon – what else could I ask for (just make sure not to delete the shots by mistake later – like I did. Luckily I was able to retrieve them). It was a lovely evening at Woodenshoe Tulip Farm. With rock climbing / small bungee jumping activities for the kids, pony rides, steam tractors, gift center etc. it is a fun place to spend with family during the bloom season. And while you are there definitely plan to stick around around for sunrise/sunset or better both ;-)

   

WoodenShoe Tulip Farm
Woodburn, Oregon, USA

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April 13, 2012

Mt Hood at Twilight

That is how Customer Support is supposed to be : I host my photos with Smugmug and should say they probably have the best customer service. Generally they respond back to mails within less than an hour and have the overall issue addressed within few hours or maximum a day. This is irrespective of being a weekend or holiday as the support team is spread across the globe.

Recently noticed they had added a real time chat option – for support. I was skeptical, but went ahead and queried to get something taken care of. End of the chat realized the feature (setting my own License Agreement for selling digital downloads, hope they plan for it soon !) was not yet implemented. But the experience was exhilarating. It was kind of magical, the responses were so swift that it felt as if the other person was able read my mind. It was as if the person on other side was able to see and understand what I wanted, before I even sent the message. And just at that moment I realized that is exactly what was happening.  Many times when we try to frame a query we go back and fourth, refining the query – reading it from other end – in real time gives such a advantage in responding appropriately and quickly. Such a small technical workaround to give that speedy experience.

Thanks Ty (Smugmug hero), you made my day. And Smugmug you just rock !!! Thanks again for all the work you folks do …

Weekly Photo – Mt Hood at Twilight

We stopped over at Jonsrud Viewpoint when returning from Mt Hood in the past. It was late in the evening and the sun was pretty much set for the past hour. Being winter with the biting cold and not much light, I was not able to enjoy or appreciate the view. I did make a mental note to return here someday. I was really inspired by Gary Randall’s Mt Hood Shots. It kindled my interests and gave me the last mile push, Thanks Gary ! If u enjoy Mt hood (or landscapes in general) u definitely should check this out. It was nice meeting him in person last week at the Gallery display. Prior to this I did not know that there were gallery displays across town during First Thursdays.

Anyway, for the weekend the forecast was sunny and we were supposed to have some pretty warm weather and we did. I was glad I pushed myself out early. It was magical to watch the river flow from one side, the fog blanket the valley from the other, as the sun was about to peek from behind the peak. The twilight colors lasted a few moments, but was well worth the drive. I present to you Mt Hood at twilight. Wish you a pleasant morning  and a happy weekend ahead !

Jonsrud Viewpoint
Mt. Hood Scenic Byway, Oregon, USA

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April 9, 2012

Night lit Skyline of Salt Lake City

The last few weeks blog posts were related to waterscapes. It was not intentional and I was really surprised that all were from Oregon, very different perspectives of waterfalls and all were having variations of green. Yet each one was so unique. Even the greens within the same shots were so varied. Ah! the beauty of pacific northwest !!! I can go on and on about the northwest landscape, let me just stop there :)

In an attempt to diversify a bit, this week shot is from other extreme – an urban landscape – Night lit skyline of Salt Lake City. Incidentally it also kind of reflects my mood – scattered, hyper, juggling too many thing – hopeful of finding the calm within the chaos.

The dome without mistake is the state capitol building, which by itself has a wonderful architecture and elevation. If you look keen enough, you can notice the adjoining lawns that have nice evening picnic spots and views. On the right is the famed LDS Temple. The elevation of this temple is beautiful too. Click here to check out the close up shot of the Temple Square. This panoramic view is from somewhere around the Ensign Peak Nature Park. Read somewhere that the pioneer leaders envisioned  Salt Lake City layout plans from this point. Now I know how SLC ended up with the boring co-ordinate road system :)

    View from Ensign Peak Nature Park
Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

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March 28, 2012

The Wall of Falls

One of the best ways to enjoy the Columbia George, at least to begin with, is by car. It gives a feel of the scenic vistas, hikes and the various point of interests spread along the way. This route is historic but definitely never gets old. Depending on the time of the year, the experience is varied. If you are lucky to be around there, just after continuous rain and the start of the spring, when the snow melt adds to it – u can see unnamed falls in literally every corner. This particular afternoon I was presented with the epic scene of multiple falls from across the river. Fortunately I was on the Columbia George scenic route and not the parallel I-84 highway. I was able to pull over, hike up a bit thru the trees to get a better view. Though afternoon, it was still foggy. It appeared heavenly, as the mist was kind of culminating down to the falls.

Sometimes all you have to do is look, right :)

    Unnamed Falls
Columbia George Scenic Highway, Oregon, USA

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March 23, 2012

Latourell Falls – first and among best of Columbia George

Latourell Falls at the Columbia George is stunningly beautiful, it is also one special place for me. The profile photo that I use online was shot here, by my wife. It was not a planned shot at all, shot just at that moment … some sweet memories.

Recently, the seasons definitely are mixed up. We started off spring with snow shower out here in the pacific northwest. And after couple of days of rain & snow, it was supposed to be a clear for the weekend. It was kind of overcast, but the sun did peep out at times with a crack of blue sky. Given the snow melt and the rain, the falls were roaring, literally spraying water within ~50+ feet off its base. Generally I have shot this falls from the base – but today I was neither prepared, nor was I in any mood to get drenched. But I was glad I decided to shoot from the highway. The mix of the weather and the afternoon sun enhanced the yellow colored lichen cliff walls and the foliage. Including the bit blue sky helped capture the mood of the day – as I experienced – for you to enjoy ! Have a nice weekend.

    Latourell Falls
Columbia George Scenic Highway, Oregon, USA

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