Refreshing with the Clark Lake Sunset 3.8.12

In anticipation of the last nice day for a while, I decided to rearrange my work load a bit in order to be able to squeeze in some time in the sun with my camera in between the end of my work day and an evening activity at my school. Last month was a very difficult month for me and I just couldn't seem to break free of the constant expectations and obligations. This month I am determined to get a better balance of work, home and photography. So far, so good :o)! It is something I have to work at and I am by no means a master, but I do feel proud of my self for trying. This excursion was a successful attempt at refreshing my soul with one of my favorite things in the world...photographing the sunset.

I went back to Clark Lake Park which is very close to my work and fit perfectly with my tight timeline. It was a glorious hour spent reflecting, photographing and enjoying the sun. The lake looked like glass most the time we were there and it made for the most amazing reflections of the sun and the exquisite colors of the sunset. During my shoot, I took some time to think about the things I learned from my experience with Critique Me. I tried to focus on being conscious of the rule of thirds and of my intention. Below are a few of my favorite SOOC shots. More to come this week. I would love to know how you think I did. Thank you for taking a look!

Settings: ISO 200, 18mm, ss1/160, f/22 (full manual, sunlight wb, SOOC)

Intention: The sunbursts in the sky and the water

Settings: ISO 200, 18mm, ss1/100, f/22 (full manual, sunlight wb, SOOC)

Intention: The stunning reflections

Settings: ISO 200, 18mm, ss1/200, f/11 (full manual, sunlight wb, SOOC)

Intention: The lines of the dock pointing to the sunset

"Rest when you're weary. Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit. Then get back to work." - Ralph Marston