58 Birds

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

Picture of 58 birds on some power lines recently.

Google Pixel 6 Pro 19mm f3.5 1/230s ISO33

Photo of 58 birds gathered on some power lines.

The photograph titled "58 Birds" captures a strikingly simple yet captivating scene of a utility pole against a vivid, cloudless blue sky. Perched upon the intersecting power lines are clusters of small birds, meticulously lined up in a harmonious arrangement. The birds resemble musical notes written on an invisible staff, evoking a sense of rhythm and quiet contemplation. The lines bisect the frame diagonally, leading the eye into the depth of the composition. A solitary streetlamp attached to the pole adds a touch of human presence, juxtaposing the natural elements of the scene.

The composition of the photograph is both deliberate and dynamic, utilizing leading lines to draw the viewer’s attention across the scene. The decision to place the utility pole off-center creates an asymmetrical balance, adding visual interest and tension. The photographer employs a minimalist style, allowing the clear blue sky to serve as an expansive backdrop that emphasizes the linear patterns of the wires and the structured formation of the birds. The image’s simplicity is its strength, though some might find the repetitive elements to lack variety. Overall, the photograph evokes a peaceful ambiance, celebrating the beauty found in everyday visuals while maintaining an intriguing, organized complexity.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: 58 Birds #photo #birds 58 Birds )

After the Storm

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

After the Storm

SONY ILCE-7C 20mm f1.8 1/320s ISO100

Photo of the twisted wreckage of a tree on Strawberry Hill in the middle of Stow Lake (Golden Gate Park, San Francisco).

The photograph, aptly titled "After the Storm," captures the raw aftermath of nature’s fury with striking detail. The central focus is on a tree that has been violently torn asunder, its jagged fibers exposed in a testament to the storm's ferocity. The splintered wood juts out fiercely into the foreground, its raw edges contrasted against the soft blur of greenery that recedes into the background. The texture of the split tree is palpable, almost tactile, as if you could reach out and feel the ruggedness and the hidden stories within its rings. This is a narrative of resilience and vulnerability, framed within the quiet aftermath of chaos, where the world pauses to breathe and begin again.

In terms of style and composition, the photograph employs a shallow depth of field to great effect, isolating the broken tree from its surroundings and emphasizing the details of the splintered wood. The use of a close-up perspective invites the viewer into an intimate encounter with the subject, focusing on the delicate interplay of light and shadow among the splinters. What stands out is the photographer's ability to draw attention to the intricate patterns within the destruction, an artful choice that speaks volumes. However, the composition could be improved by offering a hint more context, perhaps by including slightly more of the background to juxtapose the chaos of the foreground with the tranquility beyond. Overall, the image succeeds in evoking a visceral response, a testament to the blend of technical skill and artistic vision.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: After the Storm #photo #tree #strawberryhill #stowlake #sanfrancisco #ggp A photo of a downed tree on Strawberry Hill in Stow Lake, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. )

Rocky Outcrop Park

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

Rocky Outcrop Park

SONY ILCE-7C 20mm f3.5 1/160s ISO100

Photo of Rocky Outcrop Park in San Francisco. 14th Avenue next to this urban cliff is usually a wind tunnel.

The photograph titled "Rocky Outcrop Park" is a raw and striking depiction of nature's rugged beauty. The scene captures a towering wall of rock, its surface craggy and uneven, adorned with splashes of red and gray that seem to whisper ancient geological tales. The rocks rise majestically into the frame, embodying a sense of monumental strength and timelessness. Subtle patches of green moss and small plants cling to the crevices, adding a touch of life to the otherwise austere landscape. The sky, visible at the top edge of the image, is a soft tapestry of blues and whites, providing a gentle contrast to the rugged terrain below and inviting the viewer to ponder the vastness and resilience of nature.

In terms of style and composition, this photograph employs a stark and realistic approach, with its vivid textures and colors enhancing the tactile quality of the rocks. The photographer has chosen a straight-on angle, which emphasizes the imposing stature of the outcrop, creating a sense of immediacy and presence. The depth is well-captured, with the sharp focus on the rocks drawing the viewer into the scene. What I particularly appreciate is the way the earthy tones of the rock contrast with the softer hues of the sky, creating a balanced visual interplay. However, the composition might benefit from a bit more context or variation in perspective to add dynamism and perhaps integrate the park's broader environment, offering a more immersive sense of place.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Rocky Outcrop Park #photo #rockyoutcrop #sanfrancisco Dramatic colors in this photo of Rocky Outcrop Park in San Francisco, California. )

Leaves

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

Leaves

SONY ILCE-7C 40mm f16.0 1/40s ISO1000

Some leaves catch the afternoon sun at China Camp State Park in Marin County.

The photograph titled "Leaves" captures a serene woodland scene with a focus on a cluster of golden leaves, bathed in the warm glow of autumn sunlight. These leaves, transitioning from verdant greens to vibrant yellows and ochres, hang delicately from branches that traverse the frame, offering a natural tapestry against a backdrop of shadowy trunks and foliage. The sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor and illuminating the leaves to create a dancing interplay of light and color. The richness of the hues and the intricate details of the leaves evoke the ephemeral beauty of a forest in the midst of seasonal change.

The composition of the photograph demonstrates a strong understanding of balance and harmony. The use of natural light highlights the leaves, creating a focal point that draws the eye naturally. The diagonal lines of the branches add dynamism and lead the viewer's gaze across the image. The contrast between the illuminated leaves and the shadowy background provides depth, enhancing the three-dimensional feel of the scene. However, the density of the foliage in the corners could potentially make the composition feel slightly cluttered, detracting from the central focus. Overall, the image succeeds in capturing the tranquil essence of nature while showcasing the photographer’s adeptness at using light to enhance the natural beauty of the subject.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Leaves #photo #leaves #chinacamp Photo of leaves catching the sun at China Camp State Park in Marin County, California. )

Crow, Sutro Tower

By Robert Ellison. Updated on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

Crow, Sutro Tower

Google Pixel 6 Pro 19mm f3.5 1/280s ISO33

Photo of a crow in front of Sutro Tower at Twin Peaks in San Francisco.

The photograph captivates with an enigmatic crow poised amidst rugged, sunlit rocks. The crow, captured in profile, exudes a sense of mystery and watchful wisdom, its dark plumage contrasting sharply with the warm rust tones of the terrain. In the background, the iconic Sutro Tower looms, ethereal and almost spectral against a flawless azure sky, seamlessly blending engineering marvel with nature's inherent mystery. This juxtaposition of the organic and the man-made invites contemplation and elevates the crow from a simple bird to a symbol perched at the crossroads of nature and urbanity.

The composition of the photograph exhibits a masterful use of balance and contrast. The crow is placed off-center in the foreground, adhering to the rule of thirds and drawing the viewer's eye to its textured feathers and stately posture. This balance is mirrored by the presence of the Sutro Tower in the background, contributing depth and providing context that roots the image in a specific place. The use of natural light enhances the rich hues of the landscape while casting subtle shadows that add dimensionality to the scene. While the sharpness and clarity are commendable, a potential area for improvement could be a tighter focus on the crow itself, to intensify the intimacy and detail of its presence. Overall, this photograph is a beautifully executed exploration of contrast and coalescence, where nature and human achievement find an intriguing equilibrium.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Crow, Sutro Tower #photo #crow #sutrotower #twinpeaks #sanfrancisco A crow in front of Sutro Tower at Twin Peaks in San Francisco, California (Photo). )

Meteor

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

Meteor

SONY ILCE-7C 20mm f1.8 10.0s ISO1600

Meteor photographed looking South-West from Llanbedr in Wales. 10 second exposure.

The photograph, aptly titled "Meteor," captures a serene and expansive night sky, speckled with countless stars that sparkle like scattered diamonds across a canvas of deep navy blue. In the lower right quadrant, a brilliant meteor streaks diagonally across, leaving a trail of vibrant green and white light. This meteoric trail, cutting across the serene static of the stars, creates a sense of dynamic energy and movement within the stillness of the celestial backdrop. The meteor's glow adds a touch of magic and wonder, inviting the viewer to gaze upwards and imagine the mysteries beyond our world.

The composition of this photograph beautifully exemplifies the rule of thirds, with the meteor strategically placed on the lower right, guiding the eye naturally through the scene. The vastness of the starry sky is emphasized by the meteor's comparatively small but striking presence, creating a sense of depth and immensity. Technically, the photographer has expertly captured the meteor's fleeting brilliance against a backdrop of sharp, clear stars, balancing exposure to preserve detail across the image. However, while the meteor’s vivid colors add intrigue, some might find the wide expanse of space around it slightly too empty, potentially detracting from the focal impact. Nonetheless, this photograph elegantly depicts a celestial dance, blending tranquility with a fleeting burst of cosmic action.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Meteor #photo #meteor #stars Photo of a meteor from Llandedr, Wales, United Kingdom (10 second exposure) )

ISS over Wales

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

ISS over Wales

The International Space Station over Llanbedr in Wales. Three stacked ten second exposures.

Updated 2022-07-11 09:05:

ISS over Wales

Same garden in Llanbedr, same space station, different night.

The photograph titled "ISS over Wales" captures a mesmerizing nocturnal landscape where nature and technology elegantly intersect. The skyline is dominated by a glowing haze, likely created by the urban lights reflected on a tapestry of low-lying clouds, painting the sky in warm shades of amber and gold. Above this, the heavens unfold in a celestial spectacle, with stars twinkling softly against a deeper blue expanse. Tracing across the sky is a thin, luminous line, the International Space Station leaving its ephemeral trail, a testament to human ingenuity streaking through the vastness. The foreground is a silent silhouette of trees and shrubs, their dark forms adding depth and grounding the otherworldly upper canvas in earthly reality.

The composition employs a dynamic use of light and shadow, with the brightness of the sky subtly transitioning into the inky blackness of the silhouetted landscape. The photographer’s choice to include the arching trail of the ISS adds a unique focal point that guides the viewer’s eye upwards, creating a sense of movement and wonder. The use of a long exposure effectively captures the path of the ISS, blending motion within a static frame. This photo harmonizes natural and artificial elements, creating an intriguing juxtaposition. However, the intensity of the urban glow might distract slightly from the stars, competing for attention and somewhat diminishing their presence. Despite this, the image conveys a profound narrative of coexistence between human achievement and the timeless theatre of the night sky.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: ISS over Wales #photo #iss Photo of the International Space Station (IIS) flying over Llanbedr, Wales, UK. )

Changing of the Password

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

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Changing of the Twitter password at Buckingham Palace today. Overheard: "Present... two numbers and one special character".

The photograph titled "Changing of the Password" captures a vibrant and ceremonious scene in front of a grand palace gate. A horse-mounted officer sits at the center on a sleek brown steed, seemingly orchestrating the renowned tradition. Surrounding the officer, a band of guards in striking red uniforms and iconic bearskin hats perform with instruments in hand. The ensemble is lively, their alignment precise under the blazing sun, with the majestic palace facade and intricate wrought iron gates forming an opulent backdrop. Observers, held behind metal barricades, watch intently, adding to the air of anticipation and tradition.

The image thrives on its structured composition, with a clear emphasis placed on symmetry and order. The central placement of the mounted officer creates a focal point from which the vibrant energy of the scene radiates outward. The lines of the gate and the surrounding architecture provide a regal frame that emphasizes the formal this ceremonial moment. What I appreciate about this photograph is its successful capture of a dynamic moment steeped in historical elegance, effectively employing color contrast between the vivid red uniforms and the muted architectural tones. However, while the image captures a rich tapestry of action and tradition, the presence of foreground barriers could detract from the overall aesthetic, creating a slight disconnect between the viewer and the enthralling spectacle.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Changing of the Password #photo #london British Army ceremonial changing of the Twitter password at Buckingham Palace earlier today. )

Rapids

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

Rapids

SONY ILCE-7C 40mm f22.0 20.0s ISO100

Long exposure of rapids on the South Fork American River in Coloma, CA.

The photograph titled "Rapids" captures a serene yet dynamic scene of a river cascading over rocks, enveloped by lush greenery. The foreground features silky smooth water, a result of long exposure, which creates a gentle, mist-like effect as it moves over the rocks. The riverbanks are lined with verdant trees and bushes, their rich greens contrasting with the soft whites and grays of the water. In the background, a range of forested hills rises, adding depth and a sense of tranquility to the composition. The sky above is overcast, casting a soft, diffused light over the scene, contributing to the subdued color palette and peaceful ambiance.

The style of the photograph leans heavily on the use of long exposure to evoke a dreamlike quality in the moving water, a technique that effectively captures the relentless yet gentle movement of the rapids. The composition is well-balanced, with a nice lead-in line of the river guiding the viewer’s eye from the foreground to the distant hills. The natural framing of trees on either side provides a sense of enclosure and intimacy. What is particularly striking is the balance between movement and stillness; the water contrasts beautifully with the solid, immovable rocks and steadfast trees. However, the overcast sky, while softening the overall lighting, lacks the drama that a more varied sky might contribute. This might detract slightly from the dynamic energy typical of rapid scenes. Overall, the photo excels in conveying a moment of serene fluidity amidst nature's constant motion.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Rapids #photo #rapids Photo (long exposure) of rapids on the South Fork American River, Coloma, El Dorado County, California. )

Sutro Tower, Moon, and Plane

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

A Plane, the Moon and Sutro Tower

Google Pixel 6 Pro 19mm f3.5 1/250s ISO33

Brief moment of calm before a 737 knocks the Moon into Sutro Tower. Almost.

Photo Critique

In this ethereal composition titled "Sutro Tower, Moon, and Plane," we observe a juxtaposition of human engineering and celestial wonders against an expansive sky. The Sutro Tower stands prominently in the left portion of the frame, its intricate lattice structure a testament to human craftsmanship. To its right, a waning moon hangs quietly, casting a soft, luminous glow that speaks of tranquility in contrast to the rigid lines of the tower. A small plane appears almost playful, captured mid-flight as it slices through these two primary subjects, adding a dynamic element to the scene. The sky's vibrant blue serves as a serene backdrop, unifying these disparate elements into a harmonious whole.

The photograph employs a balanced composition, with the Sutro Tower anchoring the left side, providing a structural counterpoint to the more ephemeral moon. The rule of thirds is subtly at play here, with the tower and moon occupying strong compositional positions, drawing the viewer’s eye naturally across the image. The plane, although smaller, punctuates the scene, adding a sense of movement and scale. The use of color is particularly striking - the bright blue sky provides high contrast with the dark, textured tower, and highlights the crisp white of the plane. However, the image could benefit from slight adjustments in contrast to further distinguish the moon from the rich azure of the sky. Overall, the photograph succeeds in creating a compelling narrative about the intersection of the terrestrial and the celestial, though it might press further into this intersection through more dramatic lighting or angles.

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(Published to the Fediverse as: Sutro Tower, Moon, and Plane #photo #sutrotower #moon Photo of a plane that looks like it's about to knock the moon into Sutro Tower in San Francisco, California. )