Rudolf Loc: Marietta, Georgia

Never gave two thoughts about going to the Badlands National Park. What a big mistake I made until this September, this place is a photographer's dream. Three photographs panorama.

Chuck_893 Loc: Lincoln, Nebraska, USA

I'm a big believer that "You takes yer pitcher with the light you gots," and the scene is WHOA a stunner! But recognizing that, certainly in my case, you can't always hang around, this looks as if it was made about high noon judging by where the shadows are, and thus I think it lacks a little more WOW quality that it would have about, oh, six hours later (or earlier, depending). I'm always on the run, have to get to the next camp or thing or whatever, but I personally would be disappointed if I couldn't have longer shadows on this otherwise spectacular scene. :thumbup:

Nightski

Rudolf, I am planning on going there this Summer. I have been there a few times, but long before I did photography.

When you took this shot, did you have to hike a way to get to a spot like this? Did you do much hiking? Did you worry about rattle snakes if you were hiking? I am thinking of staying in one of those KOA Kabins. There's a KOA right in the badlands. I like to tent, but it would probably make my family feel better if I was in a Kamping Kabin when I'm so far away from home. Any tips on going there for photography?

Bmac Loc: Long Island, NY

How was the weather in September? Did you see much wildlife there? 8-)

Rudolf Loc: Marietta, Georgia

My party was anxious to go on and it was 11:54 in the morning. Thanks for the compliment.

Rudolf Loc: Marietta, Georgia

Did not see any snakes, but there is warning signs posted near the board walks. Trails are few, about 20 miles worth. http://www.badlands.national-park.com/blmap.htm

Rudolf Loc: Marietta, Georgia

Middle of September would be Ideal. I understand that there is plenty of wild life in the park, I was there at high noon and I'm sure they were all under some shade.

Bmac Loc: Long Island, NY

Thanks for the info Rudolf, although I have traveled throughout the West this is still one of the places on my bucket list. 8-)

minniev Loc: MIssissippi

I like the image a lot-composition with the hills/formations layered/lined up on the right drifting leftwards and into the distance gives so much depth. I understand the limitations of noon shooting there and believe you did a masterful job of capturing something this good in that light. And I agree it's a photographer's paradise.

I don't want to hijack your critique but I am going to add some info for those who asked - I'd encourage anyone considering a trip there to GO. It's a great place. It's a bit hot in summer (I was there in late June) but not unbearable. Stayed in the little cottages operated by the park service, which are very basic but comfortable with plenty to shoot right outside your door. Wildlife I met included buffalo, bighorn sheep, deer, antelope, prairie dogs, ferrets and an abundance of rabbits who pose very calmly for closeups. The sunrises and sunsets were awesome, and the formations are fun for traditional landscapes, closer shots and macros. Some have very gaudy colors. In the summer there's a lot of wildflowers. Most locations are accessible by short hikes. The remote southern part that intersects with the Pine Ridge reservation is very special, with the Wounded Knee site. It's close enough to Wind Cave and Custer State Park for day trips. 5-7 days is a good timeframe.

Bmac Loc: Long Island, NY

Thanks for all that information MinnieV.....sounds like a great trip to make. :thumbup:

BrentHarder Loc: Southern California

Lookin' good Rudolf..............just curious...did you rework the sky and put in a gradient?

Rudolf Loc: Marietta, Georgia

Hi Brent, This is a method I use, but with the gradient tool and not with dodge /burn tool. >>>> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EL5k0Xiuxdc&feature=related

MtnMan Loc: ID

Very nice. It might be better if you could tone down the halo along the skyline. I'm not sure how to do that. It sometimes comes from too much sharpening or clarity.