Stately Oak

Thank you for your thoughts and insights on my last post.  Truly appreciate it when folks take the time.

This is the same Black Oak tree that's in Harley's image "Winter Bare" he posted a couple weeks ago.  different season, different time, angle, view and conditions, same tree, different image.

This might be an image that most folks wouldn't shoot. Not because of the subject, but more because of the conditions. This was mid-day, bluebird sky, hot light.  Most people (including me) are looking for better light, later/earlier in the day, stormy, dappled light, etc. etc.  Me too.  However, I also believe images can be made any time of day under any condition.  I'm one that can shoot non-stop... my photo buddies can attest!

Not unlike Tunnel View, I always seem to stop here at this long, often crowded pullout and viewpoint. Terrific view of Yosemite Falls.  I know Preston appreciated this spot because the sun was out and he could warm up a bit. ;-)  I don't recall anyone getting out their cameras, but I was attracted to the back/side lighting on this grand oak.  Interesting, I wouldn't have pulled out the large format with film, but now I've come to learn there are wider options with the digital.  Even though the light was harsh I still thought there was potential.  I also chose to tightly compose this to avoid sky, hot granite cliffs, etc.

I left the bg a little on the blue side since that's how I remember the scene.

Would love your feedback. Does this work?  There are a couple of small rogue branches that I might clone out, but I don't think this one will go anywhere other than the web.  Thanks for looking!

Lon