Pothole Pool

This is neat Doug, especially because the small version gives a great sense of looking up through a hole in the rocks.  If you wanted to push that feeling, you could dodge the water and the surrounding rocks a bit.  The extra details in larger view reduce that looking up sense somewhat but still have a nice touch of optical illusion with terrific shapes and colors in the rocks.

Real nice, Doug.  Love the look of the moisture saturated sandstone.  I agree with Mark that this image has that optical illusionary quality.

One of the most unique images I've ever seen, Doug. As noted by Mark and Gary, this image image is a real optical illusion. The viewer goes back and forth as to whether they are looking up or looking down. So cool! 

Like looking into a keyhole.

Great combination of elements Doug.

Very interesting view.  Must be much steeper into the water hole than the wide angle makes it appear.  Amazing that anything can grow here.  A return hit with a little snow on things might be interesting too.  Is the view from the bush in the direction you were standing  worth trying? so there would be only stone, water, and reflection?

Great shot Doug, I really like the composition you chose, how the foreground rock layers mirror the circular pool of water. The only thing I could suggest if you do return is a bit more sky with morning or evening light, but I don't think you could do much better on the comp. 

Wow!! This is a marvelous image, in how it combines almost kaleidoscopic symmetry and color!

This is simply marvelous, Doug, a classical example of using lead-in lines.  I love the centered comp and how the contours draw my eye right through the frame.

This has so many great elements Doug. Love the sandstone circle with the water smack dab in the center like a target. Also love the one lone tree at the back of the pond. Nice work on this.

Thanks for your comments.  A tall ridge to the west blocks the evening light, making this spot better for sunrise.  Of course, we're still waiting for the great color in the morning sky on a future trip.  I think the slope downward to this water hole may be about 30*; I never got the illusion in the image of looking up, but then I struggle with the old lady or candlestick image too ;-)  Harry, the view the other way has two more smaller pools, it may be a consideration.

Super rad.  Surreal with that pool.  Very 3d trippy.

aF

This is excellent. Fantastic perspective that really pulls you into the image. Minor stuff but i might burn down the highlights in the water so that it is not brighter than the sky.

Love the prism like composition.