Return to Mono
Surrounding Hills
If you are tired of visiting Mono Lake through my blog, I understand. Yes, this is the third post (in a row)…you may have guessed it–I am hooked on this amazing wonder. Think only additional visits might cure me–happy to try again!
Life lessons can be easy or hard to learn. My personal belief is that the harder ones to learn are those we remember. I sure as heck hope so. Because since my last post, I realized I shot every single photo from December 16-31 in jpeg–ONLY on my D300s. Son of a gun. How did I not figure it out sooner? Didn’t try to view a different white balance on a photo I already shot and was making very few changes in Lightroom 3.
I am now taking a Photoshop course through BetterPhoto.com which gave me enough confidence to finally try to process my images in Photoshop…only to realize ALL my pics were jpeg, which is why I couldn’t get them to open in Adobe Camera Raw. Originally, I figured I must have changed my setting by accident when I shot sunrise. Figured one day was only in jpeg. Nope–now recall the last day of work before vacation, I went to take a photo and didn’t want to waste space with RAW that I wouldn’t use. That one moment has cost me much in opportunities with editing my trip. BUT, I better remember to check my settings every time I put it away and pull it out of my camera bag. #lessonlearned Must say, this on-line course is really well-organized. Lewis Kemper is the instructor, it is a privilege to have a local accomplished photographer such as he!
So, I was viewing my photos with a new lens today and happened to find a few more worth sharing. Think the threatening weather added much to the clouds and saturation to the colors. Really so much more than I managed to capture. Next time, I sure as hell will have my camera setting in Raw and not jpeg!
A few views before sunset at South Tufa, Mono Lake…
Water's Edge
Further Back
Across the Way
Lighting the Way
Mountain Glory
Tufa Window
As sunset begins the color change–many folks will leave and miss the real light show that begins when the golden hour starts. 30 minutes after sunset, in my limited experience is well worth staying for.
First changes
Another view from sunrise the next morning…
Early Sunrise
Of course I now realize I should have used my (c) from 2011 instead of 2012–another lesson for future learning:)
Drmarm's Blog 
Gorgeous….I cant tire of any photos from this amazing place.
January 16, 2012 at 1:41 am
I love this. You captured so many beautiful sites, I’m in awe!
January 16, 2012 at 1:57 am
Trudy, thanks much. Still more to explore. Amazed at the 360 degree views–think that is one of the powerful draws with this location at Mono.
January 16, 2012 at 2:01 am
Dawn, so glad you can enjoy it. Believe that if I spent every day there–there would still be different colors and scenery. Think because this portion is such a small part, I still have much more to explore! When did you say you are coming west? Very few birds this time of year.
January 16, 2012 at 1:59 am
Just gorgeous shots! What a magical place!
January 16, 2012 at 2:37 am
Do think magical is the right word! Thanks much, Shaina! Let m know when you are able to visit:)
January 16, 2012 at 3:09 am
It is really magical! Thanks much Shaina, for your kind words.
Laura
January 17, 2012 at 2:40 am
These are just terrific images. The sunrise shots are the ones I most enjoy. Sorry about the jpg mishap. But at least you’ve learned your lesson:)
January 16, 2012 at 3:55 pm
Thanks much–yes, I better have!
January 17, 2012 at 2:40 am
All I can say is WOW! What a spectacular place Lake Mono is. I can see why it is a popular spot for photographers. Gorgeous lighting in all of your shots. I don’t think I will ever tire at viewing images from this scenic area. Magnificent series, Laura!
Too bad some lessons have to be learned the hard way 😦
January 16, 2012 at 9:48 pm
Julie, it is a spectacular place and some of my colors don’t even do justice to what my eyes saw! Agree–some lessons are worth learning the first time around! Thanks much for your kind comments and view.
Laura
January 17, 2012 at 2:39 am
Beautiful Laura
January 17, 2012 at 3:08 am
Thank you, Kerry–it really is! 360 degree view, for sure!
Laura
January 17, 2012 at 3:30 am
Absolutely stunningly beautiful scenery and photos. Your Mono Lake photos are a mini-vacation!
January 18, 2012 at 2:49 am