Santa Cruz mountains

[paulcam]

This is my first posting to the Photo Critique Forum. I look forward to hearing your critiques and advice.

I took this photo just before sunset in Northern California's Santa Cruz mountains.

[jorgemonkey]

Looks like someone was at the bench at Saratoga Gap ;)

Looks good, I like the sunray coming through the clouds on the left of the frame. I wish there was a little bit more path between those rocks and going out to the right though. Thats the only thing I would change.

You might want to try going out there when there is some low lying fog coming in near sunset, I've got a sweet image during that time.

[MB1]

I'm thinking my monitor must be weak today or else everyone seems to be posting images that are just too dark.

I like the composition although I think the horizon isn't level. It just might look better if you cropped off about 1/2 of the grey clouds at the top giving greater weight to the mountains and foreground.

[GB1]

Welcome to the PR forums. I like your photo here - it has good geometry, the colors are relaxing, and it has nice mood. I also like the black frame you added.

I can't decide if I like it as desolate as it is....... seems like could use an animal or two, if properly located in the frame. I like how you don't see birds though -- everything is grounded, like you're too high for birds.

It also seems like an exclusive place, like only those who talk to the gods can venture here or something. (I think I've seen too many movies.......) You could use this place as a background for many subjects.

Nice post.
G

[paulcam]

Thanks for your comments.

jorgemonkey, you're absolutely right about the location. I was mountain biking through Saratoga Gap and Long Ridge when I took this. It looks like you're a mountain biker, too. I totally agree with your comment about the path through the rocks.

MB1, I tried brightening the image, rotating it a bit to see if the horizon looks better, and cropping as you suggested. I like it brighter but I'm not so sure about the cropping. What do you think?

GB1, I appreciate your feedback. If the rocks and path through the grass in the foreground had been more prominent, maybe it would have felt less desolate.