When it all comes together

I have visions of scenes and locations that I want but have to wait till it all comes together.  On the very last day of the Smoky Mountain Workshop we had planned to go to the Foothills Parkway for sunrise.  When I woke up I saw signs of some fog which would make for some very nice images along the parkway but feelings were tugging at me and I wanted to go to Cades Cove in the hope of getting my one image of Sparks Lane.   The group agreed to the change in planes and we headed out to Cades Cove.  Half way there all the fog was gone, it was too late to turn around so I decided to to continue and take my chances.  Arriving at the gates before they opened, I saw that the fog was there - a big thumbs-up.The rest of the story is in the image.  The light in the trees, the dogwood in the foreground, the fog along the tree line and the sunrise colors on the mountains - my dreams had come true it was all there as I had hoped to capture one day.  Please do click on the image for an enlarged version.

Smoky Mountains - Seeing the Light, Literally

I had taken a few participants from my workshop to the Primitive Baptist Church off the Cades Cove loop road.  We photographed the interior and exterior, great shots looking out at the dogwood blossoms through the church windows.  All in all the morning was great.  The light was getting harsh and the scenes contrasty so we decided to head back.  As i was leaving the church I noticed a streak of sunshine coming through between the main door and its frame.  The streak was hitting the floor and the back of the second last bench at the junction of the bench and the wall.  It looked like someone had lit a lamp in the perfect spot.  The angles, the light and the triangulation of lines augmented with the tones of old wood had to be captured.  As this is but a fleeting moment, I was so lucky to be there.Click on the image for a larger view. Your thoughts and comments would be appreciated. 

Smoky Mountains - 2

On the last day, the fog was awesome so I captured a panorama - 10 images.  Combined and cropped the image is 14430 pixels.  Please click on the image for a better look. The lush greenery in the Smoky Mountains is glorious.   

Smoky Mountain - Wild Flowers and Landscape Workshop

7 Days in the Smoky Mountains and Cades Cove - pure thrill.  The incredible light, superb lush green of fresh spring leaves, beautiful wild flowers and dogwood trees that were exceptional.  Rivers and streams flowing pristine water, moss covered rocks and the occasional mist made for some great photography.  The participants were fantastic and we all had a lot of fun.  Yes, days were long 4:30 AM wake-up and late evening bedtimes were worth it - every bit of it.Here are a few comments (Audio) from some of the wonderful participants.  Click on the links to listen:ArmandLoisNanMany images were captured - this is one of my favorites.  Captured on the last day - Sparks Lane - all to ourselves and just two other photographers.  Most photographers are under the impression that Cades Cove is closed on Friday - not true, not in the spring. This image is from the night before.