Land of Dragons

After getting picked up for the tour, they take you to 4 islands and couple of snorkeling spots...it is almost 2-hour boat ride to Pedar island...as my luck had been on this trip...Rain...and lots of it...that I posted in the last post here. Passed through 30 minutes of pouring rain and it started clearing off, I was just hoping for the clouds to stay around so its not searing sun baking me like a tuna on the beach. You get to this island, which is part of the Komodo Dragon National Park but is not the main island, this one has roughly 20 dragons, herd of deer's (I was surprised too), and actually got to see a few. First thing the rangers tell you..."there are 850 steps..." may as well be 2million steps...cuz of heat and 6billion percent humidity. Make my way to midway point...drink gallon of water...go up few more to another vantage point...view is even better....I'm thinking...hmmm..maybe it's better from further up...JACKPOT....it was! So, I shoot off a few panoramas...and climbed almost all the way to the top of the island, only to be stopped by a hand painted "stop" sign propped up by rocks and a ranger chilling in the chair, apparently there were some young dragons there and they are "not friendly" ...and the view sucked anyways. The unique thing about the spot was that you could spot 3 beaches from there and they were all different colors...right side is white sand, left side is black soil and the top one is pink sand, can't tell much of a difference in the photo...but it's there.

Crater Lake

Crater Lake is a stunning natural wonder located in southern Oregon. It is known for its deep blue color and crystal-clear water, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. If you're planning on photographing Crater Lake, here are some tips to help you capture the beauty of this magnificent place: Arrive early: Crater Lake is a popular destination, and it can get crowded during the day. To avoid the crowds and capture the best light, plan to arrive early in the morning. The calm water in the early morning also provides great reflection shots. Use a tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for taking sharp photos of the lake. It will also help you capture long exposures for silky smooth water and light trails. Bring a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture the expansive beauty of Crater Lake. It's also great for photographing the night sky if you're interested in astrophotography. Consider the weather: The weather at Crater Lake can change quickly, so be prepared for all conditions. Cloudy or stormy days can create dramatic and moody shots, while clear days can offer great light and reflections. Explore the surroundings: While Crater Lake is undoubtedly the main attraction, there are also plenty of other stunning landscapes to photograph in the surrounding area. Take some time to explore the forests, waterfalls, and viewpoints nearby. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience of photographing Crater Lake. Take your time, be patient, and soak in the natural beauty around you. With these tips, you'll be sure to capture some stunning shots of this magnificent place.

Taj Mahal

As the sun sets on the horizon, it paints the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. At the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, India, this daily spectacle is particularly breathtaking. The Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the sun begins to descend towards the horizon, visitors to the Taj Mahal begin to gather on the marble platform in front of the mausoleum. The white marble structure, which glows in the sunlight, takes on a warm, golden hue as the sun sets. The reflecting pool in front of the Taj Mahal adds to the beauty of the scene, reflecting the colors of the sky like a mirror. As the sun continues to set, the colors of the sky intensify. The orange and pink hues deepen, giving way to purples and blues. The Taj Mahal, which has been illuminated by the setting sun, takes on a new, ethereal quality as the colors of the sky reflect off the marble. The intricate details of the building's architecture are highlighted in a way that is not visible during the daytime. As the last rays of the sun disappear below the horizon, the sky turns dark and the Taj Mahal is illuminated by artificial lights. The building takes on a new, romantic quality, as if it has come to life under the glow of the lights. The colors of the sunset are still visible in the sky, but now they are muted, a reminder of the beauty that has just passed. The colorful sunset at the Taj Mahal is a truly awe-inspiring sight. It is a moment of peace and tranquility that transports visitors to another world. For many, it is a moment that they will never forget, a moment that captures the beauty and wonder of the world around us.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe bend in Arizona. After shooting the sunrise in Monument Valley, drove out to Horseshoe as snow was predicted to start at noon. The snow never materialized into much more than some flurries that quickly melted. Top to bottom from the edge of horseshoe bend to the Colorado river below is a 1000 foot drop. Horseshoe Bend is a breathtaking natural wonder located in northern Arizona, just outside of Page. It is a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River that has become an iconic landmark and a popular spot for photographers from all over the world. If you're planning a trip to Arizona and want to capture the beauty of Horseshoe Bend in your photographs, here are some tips and tricks to help you get the perfect shot. Timing is everything The best time to photograph Horseshoe Bend is during the golden hour, which is the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. During these times, the light is soft and warm, which can create a beautiful and dramatic effect on your photos. If you're planning to visit during the day, try to avoid the hours when the sun is directly overhead, as this can create harsh shadows and make it difficult to capture the details of the landscape. Use a tripod A tripod is a must-have when photographing Horseshoe Bend, especially if you're planning to take long exposure shots. A tripod will help keep your camera steady and reduce the risk of blurry photos. It will also allow you to take multiple shots at different exposures, which you can later blend together to create a perfectly exposed image. Experiment with different angles Horseshoe Bend is a popular spot for photographers, and chances are you won't be the only one there trying to get the perfect shot. To make your photos stand out, try experimenting with different angles and compositions. You can try shooting from different heights, such as standing on a rock or crouching down low. You can also try framing the bend with other elements in the landscape, such as the sky, the cliffs, or the vegetation. Bring the right equipment To capture the beauty of Horseshoe Bend, you'll need more than just a camera and a tripod. Make sure to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the entire bend and the surrounding landscape. You may also want to bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the colors of the landscape. If you're planning to take long exposure shots, you'll need a remote shutter release to avoid shaking the camera when you press the shutter button. Be respectful of the environment Horseshoe Bend is a fragile natural environment, and it's important to be respectful of it when you're photographing it. Stay on designated trails and be careful not to disturb the vegetation or wildlife. Avoid littering and dispose of your trash properly. And remember, the safety of yourself and others should always come first, so never take unnecessary risks to get the perfect shot. Photographing Horseshoe Bend in Arizona can be an unforgettable experience. By following these tips and tricks, you can capture the beauty of this natural wonder and create images that will last a lifetime. Just remember to be respectful of the environment and enjoy the experience of being surrounded by the stunning scenery of northern Arizona.