From Alta Plaza Park

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

From Alta Plaza Park

San Francisco at night shot from Alta Plaza Park.

This photograph, entitled "From Alta Plaza Park," captures the serene and mesmerizing expanse of a city at night. The foreground is dominated by classic, elegant houses lined with trees, their silhouettes softly illuminated by the warm glow of streetlamps. The view extends into the glittering cityscape, where countless lights twinkle like stars scattered across a dense, urban sky. Above this luminous spread rises a dark hill, accentuating the contrast between nature and city life. A tall, thin structure punctuates the skyline, its form echoed by the soft, rolling hills in the distance. The night sky hangs low, its deep indigo punctuated with subtle celestial pinpricks, drawing the eye upwards and imparting a sense of calm beneath the bustling city.

The composition of the photograph embraces a well-structured balance between foreground and background, effectively utilizing the rule of thirds to guide the viewer’s gaze through the scene. The inclusion of the nearby rooftops grounds the subject, inviting viewers into the intimate setting before broadening into the vast cityscape. The photographer has skillfully managed exposure to capture the dynamic range of lights without them overpowering the scene, maintaining clarity without washing out details. However, the darkened lower edge of the image might feel somewhat heavy, potentially drawing attention away from the lighter areas. Overall, the photograph's compelling linear perspective and profound depth convey a narrative of peaceful coexistence between the tranquility of home and the perpetual motion of the city beyond.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: From Alta Plaza Park #photo #sanfrancisco Photo of San Francisco at night as seen from Alta Plaza Park. )

Coyote

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Coyote

Coyote on Lovers' Lane in The Presidio.

Updated 2014-10-21 22:53:

Presidio Coyote San Francisco

Another Presidio Coyote, this time on the main post.

Updated 2020-01-01 18:19:

Coyote

Two pups playing in Glen Canyon Park.

Updated 2020-10-10 10:28:

Coyote

In the Marin Headlands.

Updated 2020-12-28 09:26:

Coyote

In Glen Canyon Park again.

The photograph titled "Coyote" captures the serene yet wild essence of nature. In the foreground, a coyote is subtly camouflaged among the tall, lush grasses of a sun-dappled meadow. Its alert gaze is directed toward the viewer, exuding an aura of both curiosity and caution, embodying the spirit of a creature that is at once hunter and hunted. The backdrop is a dense tapestry of sunlit trees, their foliage a vibrant tapestry of greens and yellows, casting dappled shadows that dance across the meadow. The gentle curve of the landscape draws the eye naturally towards the coyote, accentuating its presence within this tranquil setting.

The photographic composition skillfully employs the rule of thirds, placing the coyote off-center to create a dynamic balance within the frame. This placement invites the viewer to explore the interplay of light and shadow across the meadow, adding depth to the image. The use of natural light is both a strength and a limitation here; while it lends warmth and life to the photograph, some areas appear slightly overexposed. This could detract from the details in the highlighted sections of the foliage. Despite this, the photo succeeds in capturing a moment of quiet wilderness, a testament to the photographer's ability to blend instinct with artistry. The subtle presence of the coyote amidst the expansive greenery speaks volumes, making this a compelling study of nature’s quiet vibrancy.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Coyote #photo #coyote #presidio Photos of coyotes around San Francisco and in the Marin Headlands. )

Sun

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Sun

Sun Painting, an installation at the Exploratorium in San Francisco by Bob Miller.

In this mesmerizing photograph titled "Sun," the viewer is invited into a vibrant tapestry of light and color, where prismatic hues dance across the canvas like a cosmic ballet. Waves of iridescence ripple through the darkness, creating an impression of luminescent auroras caught in motion. The interplay of electric blues, radiant yellows, fiery oranges, and vibrant greens forms an abstract masterpiece reminiscent of a stained glass window illuminated from within. This dazzling array of light reveals a dynamic composition that feels both ethereal and fluid, suggesting a world where light takes on a tangible, expressive form, transcending its usual boundaries to tell a story of energy and motion.

The composition of this photo showcases a masterful use of contrast and texture, where the stark black backdrop allows the vivid colors to shine with remarkable clarity and impact. The artist effectively uses the principles of abstraction, bending and blending hues to form a cohesive yet fragmented imagery that evokes emotion and curiosity. The fluid lines and shapes suggest movement and depth, pulling the audience deeper into the mysterious narrative of light. However, the absence of a central focal point may cause the viewer to wander, searching for a definitive anchor within the composition. While this feature enhances the abstract nature of the piece, it may also challenge those seeking a more structured visual journey. Despite this, the photograph's spectacular display of color and form is undeniably engaging, offering a contemplative exploration of light's limitless potential.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Sun #photo #sun #exploratorium Photo of a moment in the life of Sun Painting at the Exploratorium in San Francisco. )

Elsie Street, west slope of Bernal Heights

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Monday, January 20, 2025.

Elsie Street, west slope of Bernal Heights

If you only buy one house in Bernal Heights this month it should be 94 Elsie Street on the west slope of the hill (I'm not biased, just happened to have lived there for nearly ten years!)

The photograph titled "Elsie Street, west slope of Bernal Heights" captures the quiet charm of a residential neighborhood. The scene features a modest, yet elegant house with a muted gray facade, punctuated by crisp white window frames and shutters. Large windows allow a glimpse of the tidy interior, softened by the shadow of leafy trees on the pavement. The front yard is a serene space, defined by lush vegetation in clean, rectangular planters, flanking the entrance and the garage. Under the bright midday sun, the subtle colors of the house contrast beautifully against the deep blue sky. A hint of neighboring houses suggests a harmonious community, adding depth to the composition.

The photograph employs a straightforward, eye-level perspective that lends an honest depiction of suburban life. The composition follows a balanced rule of thirds, with the central tree and door positioned thoughtfully. The diagonal line created by the sloping street guides the viewer’s eye deeper into the frame, creating a sense of movement within a static image. The color palette is soft yet effective, harmonizing natural and architectural elements effortlessly. What stands out is the peaceful ambiance and clarity in showcasing everyday beauty. However, the image could benefit from slightly richer contrasts to add depth, particularly in the shadows, which are somewhat washed out in the bright light. The overall composition captures a moment of calm and the essence of residential charm flawlessly.

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Commute failing to suck this morning...

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Commute failing to suck this morning...

Walking to work next to Andy Goldsworthy's wood line in the Presidio of San Francisco.

The photograph captures a serene, tree-lined path that seems to stretch into infinity. Tall, slender trees rise majestically on either side of the path, their bark exhibiting a rich tapestry of earthy tones, subtly kissed by soft morning light. The ground is a mosaic of fallen leaves and bark, adding texture to the foreground, while patches of vibrant green grass peek through, suggesting the vitality of spring. In the distance, the path curves gently, inviting the viewer to imagine what lies beyond. A lone dog appears on the left side, adding a touch of warmth and life to the scene, perfectly encapsulated by the photograph’s whimsical title that hints at the unexpected joy of a morning commute transformed by nature’s beauty.

This photograph employs a vanishing point perspective, effectively drawing the viewer's eye along the path towards the horizon, which creates a sense of depth and exploration. The composition is well-balanced, with the dense forest on either side framing the image naturally, while the use of leading lines enhances the sense of movement through the scene. The morning light filtering through the trees adds a dynamic range of shadows and highlights that enrich the mood of the image. One might critique the photo for its slightly soft focus, which could detract from the clarity and crispness often desired in landscape photography. However, this softness also adds an artistic, dreamlike quality that might appeal to some viewers. Overall, the image successfully conveys a sense of peace and wonder, celebrating the everyday moment with a quiet, poetic touch.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Commute failing to suck this morning... #photo #presidio Photo of Andy Goldsworthy's wood line in the Presidio of San Francisco, California. )

Presidio Theatre

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Presidio Theatre

Pre-restoration photo of the Presidio Theatre in the Presidio of San Francisco.

The photograph captures the classic façade of the Presidio Theatre, a structure that emanates a timeless charm nestled in its quiet surroundings. The building exhibits a symmetrical design with a series of well-arched doorways that invite the viewer’s gaze to explore the space within. The whitewashed exterior is complemented by a red-tiled roof, a harmonious blend of Mediterranean and early 20th-century architectural influences. Flanking the building are evergreens, their rich green hues contrasting sharply with the building's stark walls. Overhead, the sky is a blanket of soft grays, adding a calm yet slightly dramatic backdrop to this serene scene.

The photograph employs a straightforward, symmetric composition, using the building’s natural symmetry to anchor the image. The centered perspective emphasizes the theater’s architectural details and structural elegance. The slightly elevated angle provides a comprehensive view, embracing both the building and its natural surroundings. While the symmetry and balance create a pleasing sense of order and highlight the architectural beauty, the subdued sky may lack vibrancy, potentially diminishing the overall impact. However, the choice of a muted color palette complements the historical significance of the building and allows it to stand out as the focal point. The presentation is both respectful and evocative, leaving the viewer with an appreciation for the quiet dignity of this landmark.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Presidio Theatre #photo #presidio Photo of the Presidio Theatre in the Presidio of San Francisco, California. )

Pier 14

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Pier 14

Panoramic photo of downtown San Francisco by night from the end of Pier 14.

This photograph, entitled "Pier 14," captures a mesmerizing nighttime cityscape. The scene unfolds with the shimmering reflections of city lights dancing across a darkened expanse of water, drawing the viewer's eye through the composition. The pier itself appears in the foreground, a pathway that leads directly into the heart of the city. On either side, it is flanked by guardrails that guide the perspective inward. The skyline dominates the background, a dazzling array of skyscrapers adorned in a constellation of lights. To the left, a bridge stretches elegantly across the frame, its outline punctuated by lights that twinkle like stars, creating a perfect balance against the nocturnal horizon.

The photograph employs a panoramic style, offering an expansive view of the cityscape that emphasizes the majesty and breadth of the scene. The composition is central, with the pier acting as a leading line directing the viewer's gaze from the forefront into the luminous urban landscape beyond. This effective use of leading lines adds a dynamic sense of depth to the image. The exposure seems deliberately long, capturing the serene glow of the city lights and their reflections on the water, which enhance the tranquil yet vibrant nocturnal ambiance. One might argue that the overall softness in focus slightly diminishes the crispness one might expect, potentially an artistic choice to evoke a dreamlike quality. I admire the photograph’s ability to evoke a sense of infinite exploration yet feel that a bit more sharpness could amplify the already captivating details.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Pier 14 #photo #sanfrancisco Photo of San Francisco by night from the end of Pier 14. )

Fog over Twin Peaks

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Monday, January 20, 2025.

Fog over Twin Peaks

Fog sweeps in over Twin Peaks in San Francisco.

The photograph titled "Fog over Twin Peaks" captures a mystic view of a cityscape shrouded in fog. In the foreground, delicate silhouettes of tree branches frame the scene, adding a sense of natural grandeur and tranquility. The slowly rolling fog blankets the urban landscape, partially concealing a towering radio tower that rises defiantly against the dim sky. Below, the lights of the city glimmer like scattered stars, creating a surreal juxtaposition between the man-made and natural elements. The image evokes a serene, otherworldly atmosphere, where the ethereal mist blurs the boundaries between land and sky.

The style of the photograph embraces a minimalist approach, focusing on a few key elements to convey its message. The composition is well-balanced, with the prominent radio tower slightly off-center, drawing the eye upwards through the layers of fog. The use of framing with the branches adds depth and a natural border, directing focus toward the central elements of the composition. The color palette is subdued, with soft grays and blues blending seamlessly, enhancing the mysterious mood. While the atmospheric quality of the fog is beautifully captured, the image could benefit from a bit more contrast to highlight the hidden details within the mist. Overall, the photograph successfully evokes a sense of calm and intrigue, inviting viewers to linger and explore its depths.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Fog over Twin Peaks #photo #timelapse #video Timelapse of fog sweeping over Twin Peaks in San Francisco, California. )

Tree

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Tree

Some kind of epiphyte hanging out on a tree in the Presidio of San Francisco.

In this photograph titled "Tree," the viewer is immediately drawn to an intriguing display of reddish tendrils that cascade from the center of the frame, catching the light in a vivid dance of color and form. The tendrils, reminiscent of organic threads, stand in stark contrast to their backdrop — a deep blue sky interspersed with the shadows and forms of a towering tree. The branches of the tree reach skyward, their dark silhouettes framing the luminous strands in the foreground. The sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows that enhance the textural richness of the scene. This composition captures a moment of natural elegance, where the dynamic interplay of light and shadow creates a tapestry of visual interest.

The style of this photograph merges elements of abstraction with nature photography, creating a compelling composition through the use of strong contrasts and unconventional framing. The photographer employs a low-angle perspective, allowing the tendrils to dominate the image, thus directing the viewer's gaze upward towards the tree and open sky. The interplay of colors is particularly striking, as the vivid reds of the tendrils offer a vibrant counterpoint to the deeper, subdued hues of the tree and sky. What I appreciate most is the photograph’s ability to transform a common subject into a fascinating, almost surreal study of color and form. However, the image might have benefitted from slightly more clarity in the background elements to enhance depth and context. Overall, the photograph succeeds in capturing the viewer's imagination through its bold use of perspective and color.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Tree #photo #trees Photo of an epiphyte in a tree in the Presidio of San Francisco, California. )

Watercress Line

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Watercress Line

Photo of steam from the Watercress Line over the British countryside.

The photograph titled "Watercress Line" captures a serene moment in a tranquil landscape. A vast, open field of lush green grass stretches across the foreground, while a row of leafless trees hugs the distant horizon. The sky is painted with soft hues of blue, punctuated by a gentle cascade of clouds that drift lazily overhead. Shadows, likely from a train out of frame, ripple across the field, adding depth and movement to the scene. The overall mood is peaceful, as if time stands still in this quiet corner of the countryside, allowing nature to breathe freely.

In terms of style and composition, the photograph employs a minimalist approach, focusing on the interplay between sky, land, and shadow. The long shadows create a dynamic diagonal element that guides the viewer's eye across the image, providing a sense of motion and intrigue. The horizon line is placed near the top third of the frame, adhering to the rule of thirds, which balances the composition and gives prominence to the expansive field. What is particularly captivating is the mystery of the source of the shadows, inviting curiosity and narrative imagination. However, the image may lack a focal point, which could make it feel slightly empty or ambiguous. The lighting casts a warm, golden hue, enhancing the serene atmosphere but could be sharper for increased clarity. Overall, the photograph's strength lies in its simplicity and atmospheric quality, inviting viewers to pause and ponder the quiet beauty of the countryside.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Watercress Line #photo #steam Photo of steam from the Watercress Line in the UK. )