rain columns

by Daniel Poxson
(CoralSprings FL. USA)

rain

just thought it was interesting camera is a Casio 4 meg compact just got my new Sony a300 can't wait to test it out.

(For convenience, all links below open in new windows)

This is a really dramatic shot that sums up what could easily be the first rule of photography.

Always carry a camera!

You never know when you are going to be in the right place at the right time and a photo opportunity presents itself.

The effect here is, I believe, called a 'virga'. That's the shafts of rainfall that we can see. And without them, the photo would certainly lose some impact.

So aside from the virga, what else makes this a good photo?

There's the very straight horizon. Well done there! I've said it before, and I'll say it again – when there's water involved, always have a straight horizon!

Daniel has also adhered to the rule of thirds. This is a sure fire way to get a great shot.

To be honest, I generally prefer the rule to be pushed a little (quarters seem to work well), but as a photographer's rule of thumb it's to be recommended!

The cloud is good too – full of feature. Cloud can really make a photo. Good cloud that is.

It is rare for the featureless blankets of cloud to add much to a photo – apart from making a neutral background for something a little more interesting!

So is there anything I would change on Daniel's photo?

Well, yes, just one thing. Use software to boost the contrast a little.

Because of the light and shade of this photo a boost of the contrast command will really bring out all those features.

Other than that, lovely photo. Thanks Daniel for the submission.

Ed.

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