Colorado Plateau Summer 2020: Episode 2

In this week's episode, I further explore this wonderful canyon, and spend time searching for interesting subjects.
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[@KurtLawson]

That mud image is really something. I like the full frame best.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks! That was a really cool subject to find.

[@NigelDanson]

I love the cracked mud shot. The colour is gorgeous and actually think both compositions work well. If it was me I would go for the un-cropped one.

[@m00dawg]

Yep i agree with Nigel. I like the flow of the uncropped, but they are both beautiful!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Nigel! Since making the video, I'm back onboard with the original aspect ratio, though I do think it's interesting how the middle portion would make for a killer panoramic if I ever needed to present it that way. It's not too often that a photo can be presented both ways and still hold up. In any case, it was a really fun subject to find, and it goes to show the importance of light.

[@kenkelchtermans6476]

I always start the video with a thumbs up because I know by now that I enjoy every single video.

[@BenHorne]

Much appreciated Ken!

[@LarryManiccia]

The only thing I can add Ben is that no matter how bad you think your outing went I would never consider it a failure. Like the old adage says a bad day of vacation is better than a good day at work. Trips like these are always a refreshing break from "real life". Sure when we don't get any photos or ones we really like we maybe disappointed, but we can always be thankful for the hunt. At least that's what I'm trying to convince myself :)

[@BenHorne]

Hi Larry! I think some of the disappointment comes from the fact that I am juggling quite a bit on these trips. Shooting large format, and especially 8x10 requires a lot of focus, and so does filming the process with videos. Since I had been home for so long, I had a lot of pressure on me to make the most of this quick trip. It all worked out in the end, but at the expense of the experience itself, which is a shame. That's something I hope to do better with on my next trip. I won't have the same sort of pressure on me, and I hope I'll just be able to enjoy the experience like the good ol' days. Following my trip in a couple weeks will be my trip to Zion in October. By then I won't have much pressure on me, and I'll be able to enjoy spending time in one of my favorite places during one of my favorite seasons. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@hanklevesque426]

While watching Ben hike from scene to scene, three years ago I would have probably taken some 300+ photographs, none of which would have been memorable. I find myself slowing down (not just because my 71 year old body insists), but because of artists like Ben who have convinced me to attempt to observe with a more critical eye. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks so much Hank! One of the things I've learned is that we're constantly surrounded by wonderful subjects, but whether we notice them or not is entirely up to us. It would be quite interesting to go on one of these trips and shoot digital to see how that transforms my process. There were certainly many more great subjects in that canyon, and I could have taken quite a few photos while I was there. I do wonder how they would compare to the 3 scenes I ended up photographing. There aren't wrong or right ways of doing things, but each method has it's own pros and cons. Thanks so much for watching and commenting Hank!

[@ScottWalton]

Ben, I’m in the ‘no crop cracked mud shot’ camp. I like the full frame which allows the warm to cool transition time and space to fully develop so you can appreciate the full effect of it. More impactful that way. Beautiful image!

[@dakmandotcom6682]

This is the right assessment

[@alexandreblanchet8856]

I fully agree.

[@FabrizioZago]

Totally agree!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Scott! Since making this video, that is what I have gravitated toward as well. I made some test prints of that photo, and seeing that color transition on paper really helped to solidify my thought on that.

[@ScottWalton]

Ben Horne I mean, who doesn’t love a good cracked mud? And this one is really, really fine. I’ll bet the prints are stunning. This year’s box set is looking really strong so far!

[@robertgrenader858]

I really love your environmental detail shots. And that panorama crop just works. Good job.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Robert! It was a really cool scene to stumble across.

[@andrewbeasley]

That first shot of yours lighting the stove is the first time I've seen you looking cold and almost downhearted / fed up! Glad to see it only lasted as long as the boil! Thank you for the environmental message - it's too easy to concentrate on the picture and not the impact. Stay safe

[@BenHorne]

Hi Andrew! I was definitely a bit tired and out of it that morning, though I was also concentrating on trying not to burn my jacket sleeve while lighting the stove. Coffee makes anything better though!

[@kevins8575]

I would never film myself before coffee

[@andrewherbert9938]

Ben , that cracked mud shot is amazing, the colour and details are superb, think I would leave the crop original

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Andrew! It sure was cool to find that subject. I'm also glad I exposed that second sheet of film, otherwise the original would have been tough to work with. Gotta love reflected light!

[@savagefrieze4675]

Really like both images, but the mud is awesome. I like abstract sorts of things.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks so much! That small stretch of mud sure was a nice find, especially since it was the only area like that in the entire canyon, and it just so happened to be in an area with some really nice light. It often pays to keep an open mind when out for a hike. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Uncle-Duncan-Shack]

Hi Ben, I like both of those a lot, the uncropped view of the mud is pleasing, as I enjoy viewing the transition of light. The shot of the juniper under the arch works just as is for me, the tight framing works and emphasizes the arch. That was well seen, that scene, it packs a lot of punch. Thanks for sharing the outing, that's a special place. Best regards, Duncan South Africa

[@BenHorne]

Thanks so much Duncan! It was a really cool scene to find, and one that I hope to fine tune when I make a return trip in the spring. Now that I have a better feeling for the light in that location, I'll be able to take my time and really ponder all the options. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!

[@hakanozgur2052]

Mate that's a beautiful shot of the mud. Love the colours and i prefer the uncropped version.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Hakan! It sure was cool to find that small section of mud. That was the only one like it in the entire canyon, and it just happened to be in an area with beautiful light.

[@SR-hf9kv]

Yes Pano looks good on that dried mud.... Gives it a bit more focus .... cheers

[@BenHorne]

Thanks! I can see how that crop would look really nice printed and framed on the wall. It would be fun to explore all the details and nuance of the scene.

[@scotty4418]

For me Ben, the uncropped version is my favourite as you can gain a better appreciation of the colour transitions within the scene.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Scotty! My thinking has shifted in that direction as well.

[@MrPaulzer]

Luv that Pano crop, Thanks for inspiring

[@BenHorne]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@philipoliversarmiento5065]

Beautiful abstract! Love it!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Philip!

[@BryanDorr]

For the cracked mud image, I think pano is better if you intend to create a photo to span your wall. I dig the juniper and embossed arch, however, could be pulled back to give a little more space around the arch. That debris wrap on the tree at 7:20 serves a good reminder about past flash floods in the area. Fantastic work as always, Ben. Love your adventures and thanks for sharing.

[@BenHorne]

Very well said about printing a large version of the mud photo Bryan. I think a panoramic crop would do very well if the photo was printed large. It would place more emphasis on the play of light on the individual bits of curled mud. For a smaller presentation, the original crop would do well because it shows the color graduation and the diagonal emphasis. Also, very good eye about noticing the debris wrapped around the tree at 7:20. I intentionally framed the shot with that to show how this quiet and calm canyon can be a raging torrent of water at times. Seeing stuff like that serves as a reminder to treat these locations with tremendous respect. There are also many areas where large logs are pinned between the canyon walls high overhead. Thanks as always for watching and commenting Bryan!

[@BryanDorr]

@@BenHorne Absolutely and happy photographing, Ben!

[@zfisher]

Really like the color transition in the mud photo

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Zach! That's one of the reasons I love reflected light. It makes just about anything look amazing.

[@paultrunfull3324]

Awesome mud shot Ben, and yes to the pano.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Paul!

[@levisimpson516]

I have to say I just enjoy watching you go through your process, it's really interesting. But also, there is something I find kind of fun, or charming about you having that massive camera but down low taking a photo of mud cracks. I guess I always imagine large format cameras like that taking these huge Ansel Adams landscape type scenes. And while I know he did more than that himself, it's just kind of fun seeing someone else shooting large format and getting up close and personal with smaller subjects. :)

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Levi! Shooting intimate landscapes with large format is honestly one of the best parts about the process. Examining the film with a loupe on a light box is a magical experience since you can see all sorts of details that you never even noticed in person. The image is so lifelike that it tricks the brain into thinking you're looking at reality. It's pretty wicked stuff. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@robseymour7433]

Ben, I love the cropped 'cracked mud' option, a lovely image any which way.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Rob! What's interesting is that this photo could do well with either presentation. I see how a panoramic crop might look nice on a large print to help simplify the scene, but the full version offers even more of the color transition. That's one of the cool things about shooting small scenes like this. There is so much possibility for different presentations. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@phillipkingsford3253]

I really love the clay photo it is very fine art.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Phillip! It sure was a cool subject to find, especially since that was the only small section of dried and curled mud like that that in the canyon, and it happened to be in an area with great light.

[@DDD_48]

Wonderful..!

[@raykalisek9845]

Definitely like the non-cropped version more. A 2:1 crop might be good on that though, it would showcase that warm to cool transition more than the narrower crop you had shown. I really liked that photograph though; that mud was a great find!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Ray! Since making the video, I've also drifted back toward using the full composition. I did a test print, and the color graduation looked really beautiful and dimensional on paper. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@EdgarJFeliz]

Hi Ben, no crop on the mud shot. Awesome video as always.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Edgar! That is the direction I have drifted as well since making this video. At first I wasn't satisfied with the lack of color depth up in the upper right corner, but I've since fine tuned the edit a bit more and it has really helped. Also, I produced a test print of the photo, and seeing it on paper gave it a whole new level of dimension. Thanks as always for watching and commenting.

[@dannynash5713]

These images turned out beautifully Ben! Reality enjoyed the video! 👏✊🙌

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Danny! I look forward to returning to that canyon again this spring!

[@fubband]

Lovely stuff as ever, Ben. Watching your videos is like a dose of meditation therapy for me :0)

[@BenHorne]

Thanks as always Martin!

[@danielpedersen6895]

hi I can really relate to your way to photograph the landscape and that you are visiting the same areas year after year. Then you get a deeper conection to the landscape and it is much more rewarding. I have been visting 3 forest reserves here in Norway the last 4 years and I will continue to do that. Hope you will visit the redwoods soon again. I love old growth forest photography =)

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Daniel! It sure is rewarding returning to the same locations isn't it? I find that it takes me several years to start producing the level of work that I'm really satisfied with. When visiting a new location, the first photos I find are often only surface deep, but once you really start working a location, far stronger photos begin to emerge. I know what you mean about those old growth forests! They sure are beautiful, and I really look forward to heading back to the Redwoods next spring! I'll keep my fingers crossed that trip will be possible. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@PereaPhotography]

Absolutely fantastic video Ben. A perfect example of not hiking from Point A to Point B, and having a photo destination predetermined. The space between the points are a much better place to show more personal artistic expression. You showed that perfectly here. Thanks for the inspiration man! Also, I prefer the original crop of the mud curls personally. It gives more weight to that cool-to-warm transition, which I find just as appealing as the texture. -Mike

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Mike! One of the things I've learned through the years is that it can be nice to leave certain photos on the table to give me an excuse to return to a location. That being said, the photos that lure me back aren't necessarily the ones I'm happiest with in the long run. I'm much happier with the smaller scenes I stumble across where I happen to be in the right place at the right time, and those photos wouldn't have been possible if not for the subject that lured me back to begin with. It makes for a really interesting cycle, and that's why I love returning to familiar locations.

[@billp8944]

Great video Ben, and for what it's worth, I like the pano version of that mud shot .. nice work

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Bill! What's interesting about that photo is that it presents well both ways. It's not all that often that I find a photo that can be cropped so much and work, but also the original aspect ratio works well too.

[@jasonschnorr8893]

Recently discovered your page and have been working my way through some of your vlogs, enjoying every minute. I really liked the panorama crop of the mud crinkles, and agree that more space above the arch in the other shot would help. I know nothing about film, and I'm just starting to learn about photography really, but I'm learning something new with every video I watch. Thanks for producing such quality content!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks so much Jason, and welcome to the channel! The thing about film is that it's not all that much different than digital. When it comes down to it, it's all about subject, light and composition. I recently added a digital camera to my kit as well, so it will be fun to experiment with that.

[@alexstojanovic6960]

G’day Ben, nice video. Don’t worry about underexposing your RVP. You can tell the lab to push it 1 stop in processing. You’ll get some increase in contrast, grain and film base fog but being 10 x 8 sheet film, I’m sure it can handle it.

[@BenHorne]

Hi Alex! I've had the film pushed in the past and it did turn out okay, but the increased contrast did bug me a bit since velvia is already pretty heavy on the contrast. Perhaps if it was Provia, I wouldn't have sweated it as much. In those situations, I'm usually quite willing to burn an extra sheet of film just to make sure my bases are covered. That all being said, I REALLY wish there was a light changing bag/tent that could handle 8x10, and wasn't 2lbs like everything else on the market. I wish there was something that was backpacking friendly so I wouldn't have to worry about burning an extra sheet of film.

[@alexstojanovic6960]

Ben Horne G’day Ben, no worries. Thought I’d mention it. A lightweight change bag would come in handy! Just some feedback on your 2 images. I quite like the cracked mud as a full frame image. I like how the light changes from cool to warm diagonally across the image. The canyon arch shot, I agree with you regarding too much at the base, it’s only marginal, but I think it works. Just wondering if it would it work as a vertical image? Not sure how high the canyon wall is, but that could also be an option. Keep up the great work. All the best. Cheers Alex.

[@MakerOfMead]

I like the full frame crop of the mud shot as well. I'm struggling to put words on why I prefer that. I think I like the diagonal line created by the transition from cool to warm tones, which really doesn't come across in the panoramic crop. I also have more difficulty parsing the scene as cracked mud in the panorama.

[@MakerOfMead]

As always, though, I have enjoyed the video and the photos you have created. I did especially like the 8x10 crop of the mud.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Mark! Since making the video, I've gravitated toward the full version of the mud photo. I made a test print, and seeing the photo on paper really made a big difference. It looked nice and natural, and the color graduation looked great on paper. I do see how it could also work as a panoramic, but it would likely need to be printed very large for the full effect.

[@TheGuitarsadist]

As always thank you posting and excellent story telling, beautiful photos and good information. I love the mud shot and personally think a pano would be the way to go. The Juniper with the arch is very unique and I can see why you would want a little more above the arch once you mentioned it. Also can understand the overall feeling of not really feeling it all that much as far as the trip went. Having same the same issues, myself. I did manage to give the RTT a tryout last night locally. Once I got to sleep (late since it was near San Antonio Lake CA and did not get below 90 until shortly before sunset), I slept very good, probably one of the best night sleep I have had in a tent in years. Only issue I had was trying to figure out how to get my poor Bluetick Hound in it, will figure that later since she just slept in the back of the Tundra with no issues. Hopefully I will be roaring and ready for some good camping in a couple of weeks when the wife comes and visit, I know we are going to go to Lassen Volcano NP for at least a couple or days and either there or some others place for additional one after, possibly to the Redwoods NP, we will see. Best to you and yours and hopefully we can all get out of the Covid-19 blahs and start enjoying the time out and about more. Also looking forward to the book in the near future, will make some nice relaxing time looking at your photos after a long day of work.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks as always Tim! That's really cool to hear about the roof top tent! That sure makes it easy to set up camp wherever, and I'm sure you'll figure out some way to get your dog in there at some point. Lassen is definitely a place I would love to visit some day, and I look forward to heading up to the Redwoods perhaps next spring. That place sure is gorgeous, and I hope you make it there. I'm hoping to head out again on another trip next week, so we'll see how that goes. I have some loose ends to take care of this week, but I'm looking forward to perhaps exposing some more film. Thanks again for watching and commenting!

[@TheGuitarsadist]

@@BenHorne You enjoy your upcoming trip once you get the loose ends tied up. Be safe and look forward to any report you make for it. Redwoods is very nice and I was there on the 4th of July weekend, look forward to going back again soon. Best to you and family.

[@TheKetchupPacket]

In a world full of Instagram "influencers " doing anything (trampling flora and fauna) to get that precious epic shot , Ben Horne reminds us that nature is fragile and takes years to heal from our presence no matter how short of a time we are there. Great video .

[@BenHorne]

Very well said! Thanks for watching!

[@simeonmarkfernandes1423]

Beautiful set of images from this trip! I prefer the un-cropped version of the mud shot only because of the better transition. But the detail is quite good to even present it as a panorama though. The arch shot does have a unique natural frame which I really love, especially complemented with the vertical pattern of lines, almost like a backdrop curtain. Agree with you on the the top space needed for the arch.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Simeon! I have gravitated toward the uncropped version of the mud photo as well. I make a test print of it, and something about seeing it on paper helped to solidify my view on that one. That location with the Arch will give me a fantastic excuse to return to the canyon. Thankfully it's a scene that has a relatively long shooting window.

[@simeonmarkfernandes1423]

@@BenHorne printing always helps. Took your advice from your video on printing, and it has already opened my mind to both post processing and composition in general. Well I guess the arch shot is one of anticipation, and I'm sure you will get it perfect someday. Satisfying a plan and vision is one of the best feelings in landscape photography for me. That moment when it all comes together as planned.

[@gui4j]

I think the mud shot is really cool as is , I personally don't thing the crop is necessary ...

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Gaius! I have drifted back toward the direction of the full version in the days since making this video. At first I wasn't happy with the color rendition up in the upper right corner, but I've worked on the file a bit more to make it even more true to life. It sure was cool to find a scene with such a nice natural color transition like that.

[@jeffpotter7958]

I like the curled mud photo with the out of camera crop vs the pano crop. I don't think you have a strong enough horizontal element in the composition to anchor a pano crop. That said, I LOVE the photo. The detail in the mud is amazing and the shift from warm to cool light within the composition is excellent. Great shot.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Jeff! That is my thinking now as well. I did a test print of the photo, and it was really nice seeing that full color gradient on paper. It really secured my thinking to go with the full version. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@MagnusLindbom]

Really enjoyable as usual Ben! 👍

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Magnus! It was a very short series, but I'm lookin forward to getting back out there again.

[@mathiaslibor287]

damn that first shot is incredible man - congrats to that! I like the original aspect ratio a bit better because to my eyes it's giving more room to the distribution of light and lets the traditions from warm to cold breathe a bit more.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Mathias! It sure was fun to find that dried mud, especially in an area with really nice light. It just goes to show that there is opportunity all around us, and whether we choose to see it or not is entirely up to us.

[@georgefrench1907]

Go for the pano crop on the texture study.👍

[@BenHorne]

Thanks George! That's one of the fun things about large format. It's nice being able to do crops like that after the fact.

[@MrDebone75]

Great work as always. As far as impact on the environment, depending in which camp you believe, your three year recovery period is a blink of an eye in Earth's time. Whether it be 10,000 years or 10,000,000,000. Not to worry.

[@BenHorne]

Very true, though I suspect the damage would be far more significant if this was an area where lot of other people visit. They would see some foot steps, assume the person before them knew something they didn't, then follow the path. As that cycle repeats time and again, plants won't be able to grow in that area, and the soil will erode. It really was eye opening to see the impact of only one person. That's why it's extra important to stick to the trail in areas with high foot traffic.

[@bradfordsmith6055]

Ben, I appreciate your caring for the environment in both this video and your videos from the past. I preferred the cropped version of the mud curls, but might have considered including in the crop a bit more from the top? I think the arch was not too tight at the top and ok as is.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Bradford! The interesting thing about the photo of the mud is that it displays well both as the full version or as a panoramic crop. I can see the reasoning for either crop depending on the final presentation. With the arch photo, I can always stretch the top a bit to add a bit more breathing room up there, but I look forward to returning to that location to give that composition another shot. Who knows though, perhaps the solution I came up with on my first visit was actually the best I can do for that scene. We'll see though! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@nicolasbertin8552]

In the deserts of SW USA, and in most arid places around the world, a layer of bacteria sometimes forms over the sand, called biological sand crust. It looks like hardened sand, a shade darker than regular sand, but it's actually full of life. And it indeed takes years to recover, in parks like Colorado National Monument, it's forbidden to walk on these, and mandatory to stay on the trail. It also helps plants to grow, thanks to all the nutrients that dead or live bacteria can bring. It's an important lesson indeed for photographers : what may seem lifeless sometimes isn't.

[@BenHorne]

Very well said Nicolas! Just beyond that Juniper, up on the flat area above the rocky slope, lies some of the most beautifully developed cryptobiotic soil I've seen. It was very dark in color, and the thickness was very impressive. I avoid walking on that soil at all costs, and only pass through those areas if I can walk on large rocks. If there isn't a way through, then I admire the area from afar. The slope in the foreground didn't have that same sort of soil. It was more of a sandy slope. The changes that I witnessed through the years were quite interesting. I was careful not to step on any plants on my first visit, but when I returned one year later, I noticed that no wildflowers were growing where I had disturbed the sandy soil. I'm guessing some of the seeds were pushed further down into the sand, and others were exposed to the wind where they were blown away. The year after that, I could still see some indents where my path had been. Finally this year most of the evidence was gone, though I could still see a faint depression where I had walked.

[@grmrtnz]

Ben the first image I would,leave it in it’s original format. It looks better composed and balanced. As always, thank you for sharing the stories behind each image. Also, could you do a quick video showing how you pack you backpack. I’m planning to get back into hacking and camping and I would love to see how you balance the space between camera gear and the other essentials. Thanks in advance!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Glidden! Since making this video, I've also swung back toward using the full composition of the photo. What made a difference to me was seeing the photo on paper. It helped give a different perspective, and I really liked seeing that color transition. On the note of the backpacking video, I have one planned for the very near future, perhaps even this week. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@jamesjohnston6765]

An excellent reference for @NatureFirst in the beginning of your video. I love both images and appreciate your thoughts on how to make the second even better (next time?).

[@BenHorne]

Thanks James! I definitely hope to return to that arch and see if I can come up with a better composition. The really nice thing about that location is that the window for good light is quite lengthy, and wind vibration isn't a big issue since it's a morning photo.

[@kevins8575]

Funny that you mention not leaving enough room over the arch. I was surprised in the video that you were not in portrait; that's just how that scene looked to me

[@BenHorne]

Hi Kevin! With that scene I never really thought about vertical, though I see how it would work. There isn't a lot of room for a ton of space up top because eventually the sky will start poking in, but it's definitely something to consider next time I find myself at this location. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@JohnHuebbe]

I actually like the current crop of the sandstone arch shot. Feels more like it’s framing the juniper tree as your subject. Love the varnish streaks. I like the full frame of the mud shot. I get a better perspective of the cool/warm light. It’s a very neat photo.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks John! That's a good point about the arch framing the tree. I can see how if it was lower in the frame, it might compete more with the tree rather than compliment it. In any case, I'm glad I have that photo, and it will be interesting to see what I can come up with when I return to that canyon. I might find that the first photo I shot was the best overall balance for that scene. We'll see! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Prashant.Khapane]

That first image of kid is cool. The colour combination works really well in 4x5 for me

[@BenHorne]

I was definitely quite happy to find that scene with the cracked mud. What's interesting is that was the only section of cracked and curled mud I found in the canyon, and it just happened to be in an area with the best light. Since making this video, I've also gravitated toward the full version. I made a test print of it, and seeing the photo on paper really helped make the decision easier. The color gradient looked really beautiful in the print.

[@AWoodworkersLife]

You continue to impress me. The mud shot is superb! I agree with you about the arch shot not leaving enough room for the eye to fully explore above the arch.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks! It sure was fun to find that scene with mud. This was the only area with mud like that in the entire canyon, and it just happened to be in a spot with great light. I hope to give that scene with the arch another try on my next trip there, though at least I have the first version to fall back on if I can't come up with a better composition. There were so many variables with that scene. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@joshuafagans7534]

Thanks again for reminding everybody about the fragile environment it is good to get the word out. I prefer the full mud photo.I like seeing the full gradient from warm to cool and I feel like that is missing in the pano.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks as always Joshua. I've come around to preferring the full image on the mud photo as well. At first upper right corner bugged me a bit, but I tweaked the editing a bit to bring out some more nuance to that area, and now it looks more natural. I made some test prints of this photo, and it really looks great on paper. There's something about the warm/cool tones that gives it a lot of depth.

[@richardstollar4291]

I find mistakes costly at 4x5 levels but hope to avoid as many mistakes as possible when my 8x10 arrives in a few weeks.

[@BenHorne]

You'll find that with 8x10, there is a whole new level of mistakes to be made, but in the end, but that's all part of the fun. I hope you enjoy the 8x10!

[@brandt_bennett]

The mud photos were great! Although the cropped image to show where the light met was great, I enjoyed the whole picture more. It was cool being able to the see the light change from warm to cool and back. Thank you for sharing!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Brandt! Since making this video, I have gravitated toward the full version as well. I made a test print of this photo, and seeing it on paper really helped to solidify my view of it. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@FabrizioZago]

The mud shot is really great. I like more the "no crop" version, I like to see the full transition. Beautiful photo!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Fabrizio! Since making this video, I have also gravitated toward the full shot of the mud. I made a test print, and somehow seeing the image on paper really solidified my decision. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@courtneykirk478]

It surely is loooooooovely where you were walking. Gosh!!

[@BenHorne]

It really is a beautiful place. It can be quite harsh there as well. The summer months are very hot, and the winter months are very cold, so I have a lot of respect for the land and all the plants and creatures that call it home.

[@courtneykirk478]

Mr. Horne, in my humble opinion, your initial photographs are beautiful. They are pure. They do not need polishing, cropping or photoshopping. I especially like the crackled clay scene. Should you crop the scene, the individual may miss the contrasts of the light and dark that make the entire photograph noteworthy. But, what do I know, for I am no aesthete.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Courtney! I've gravitated back toward the full version of that mud photo since making the video. Seeing it in print on paper really helped me decide. All those tones and subtle colors look really beautiful in print. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@jeni719]

Wow, I'm impressed hauling view around that camera while backpacking. I whine about day hiking with a full frame camera!

[@BenHorne]

It has taken me quite a few trips to learn how to manage carrying the 8x10 with me on these trips, but the overall weight is actually quite reasonable. I weighed my fully loaded pack before going on the trip, and it came in at 49 lbs before adding water. That included 5 film holders, my complete 8x10 kit, 4 days worth of food, my video kit, and everything else. Even though the pack looks heavy and bulky, it was actually incredibly comfortable. The one thing I wish I had was an ultra-light film changing bag. Pretty much all the options on the market these days weight more than 2lbs, which is quite a bit.

[@robertstonephoto]

Love the full size cracked mud image!

[@Andreas_Reuter]

Same over here! Great video - I enjoyed it a lot

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Robert! Since making this video, I've gravitated back toward the full version of that photo. I made some test prints, and it was great to see that color transition on paper. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@courtneykirk478]

Hello, Mr. Horne. I was wondering when your next episode would come. May God and Christ Bless you and your family to continuing Blessing us. Excellent work. Thank you very much.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Courtney! Unfortunately this was only a super short series, but I hope to get out there again soon. What I'm really looking forward to is my trip to Zion in the fall though. That place is so incredibly calm and peaceful.

[@fafnorcal]

The second composition (arch, juniper tree) feels about right to me. I'd fear losing the center of interest on the juniper and the arch if you opened up wider to the area above the arch.

[@BenHorne]

That's a very valid point Frank. If there is too much space at the top, then the arch will compete even more with the bush. It could very well be that when I return to that canyon, I will find that the solution I came up with was perhaps the best. I also tried something in photoshop where I stretched the area above the arch just a hair to give some more space, and that seemed to work well. In any case, it gives me an excuse to return to that canyon, hopefully as soon as this fall. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@fafnorcal]

@@BenHorne That's a perfectly legitimate way to gain just a tad of breathing space for the top of the arch. Thanks for your reply, Ben.

[@ashvarma2486]

Great video Ben and I think you managed to get a couple of great images. Love the cracked mud image and I personally prefer the un-cropped version or perhaps may be worth trying a square crop in case that offers something. Thanks for sharing. Guessing your next trip will be Zion in fall?

[@BenHorne]

Hi Ash! I'm definitely glad that some of the shots turned out, especially since I shot so few on this trip. Since making this video, I've drifted back toward appreciating the full frame version of the mud shot, though I see how a framed panoramic crop would also work. I hope to get one trip in before heading to Zion, but the Zion trip will definitely be the next big one. I'm really looking forward to it! Thanks as always for watching and commenting.

[@stephenlloydco]

Another good episode, Ben. Looked like cracking weather.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Stephen! Yup, the weather was pretty much perfect on this day. It got really hot in the days after filming this though, so I was glad to get out of there when I did. I look forward to heading back perhaps in the fall. By then the overnight temps will be quite chilly... to say the least. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@robertwhitemoto]

Just a beautiful location.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Robert! It'll be interesting to see this location during the fall. Those cottonwoods with a bit of fall color must be a beautiful sight.

[@nickswisher6759]

That tree at the beginning was my favorite photo from your 2017 box. Cool to see you there again. Also I like the full frame of the mud. The second shot you did reminds me of stuff I’d see way off in the distance when driving around Utah. So much stuff high up in the canyons like that and you were able to capture it pretty well. Makes me excited to return this fall!

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Nick! That's really awesome to hear that you'll be heading back there in the fall. Perhaps I'll see you around again if you end up in Zion while I'm there.

[@nickswisher6759]

Ben Horne that would be cool, I’m planning to be there for over a week this time! Also still got that print from finding the dollar hanging up in my new photography space haha

[@SeedubsMedia]

Yep that mud image is awesome. But when I was watching the video I was thinking "man he's on crack" lol. As always good content and amazing artwork. Thanks 👍

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Seedubya! The cool thing about that area with the curled mud is that it's about 10 feet from a much different photo I shot 2 years prior. That's one of the reasons why I love revisiting locations.

[@sandvenexplorer]

Whow, fragile environment, very interesting. Would love to "explore" that area once...quite different than where I normally hike, northern Norway

[@BenHorne]

It sure is a much different place than northern Norway, that's for sure! I bet it would feel like an alien world hiking through those canyons.

[@juanarroyo5324]

Ben nice seeing you again like always stunning shots ,,makes me remember my 4x5 days ..i still have my 4x5 calumet stashed in the closet once in a while ill take it out of the closet and reminisce !!! GOD bless n stay safe !

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Juan! You should put some film through that 4x5. Nothing quite like looking at a sheet of LF film on a light box.

[@juanarroyo5324]

@@BenHorne i still have velvia 50 in the fridge maybe i will ..thanks Ben n GOD bless !!!!

[@brianorakpohit]

Engaging as always. I agree with you on the arch image. Just one tenth of the height of the frame (the 'y' axis if you will) with the composition moved up, would've still allowed enough for the lower rock section to establish itself as a secondary feature, but crucially, would've lent some space to the area above the zenith of the arch. I mean, it's still a beautiful photograph!

[@BenHorne]

Those are my thoughts exactly. I think bumping the composition up that much would work well, and it's definitely something I want to give another try on a future visit. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@alexnail]

Another great video Ben - I really love the mud shot and I think the crop ideal is good, partly because it creates more mystery in the image. As for the second shot, I agree that maybe the tiniest bit more space at the top would be ideal, but I think a slight crop off the bottom would help to create a greater sense of space at the top. Either way its a sunning image, the way the arch frames the trees (and the desert varnish) is really perfect.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Alex! That's a good point about cropping a bit off the bottom of the second photo. I also found that I can stretch the top just a little bit and not compromise the photo, so perhaps there is a way of making this photo work in the event I can't come up with a better composition when I return to this canyon at some point. These canyons sure are fun to shoot, and even though it takes some work getting there, it's nice to be able to shoot at midday. You'd find these canyons to be a piece of cake to shoot compared to some of the places you go. I was just looking through your book Northwest again the other day, and every time I look at those photos, I'm blown away. Killer work man! Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@mk0x55]

Beautiful location. I really liked the mud shot and think it doesn't need cropping - the proportions seem pretty well-balanced. :)

[@BenHorne]

Thanks! Since making the video, that is the same conclusion I have come to as well. I made a test print of that photo, and seeing it on paper also really helped to solidify my decision on that one. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Powerwashincrocs]

I’m a fan of the full frame of the curled mud than a panoramic. I love the color transition too! About how many extra steps would you say you make on a trip going back to get your video camera?

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Dan! After producing this video, I've since embraced the full version of the photo. I made a test print of it and seeing that color gradient and all the subtle details on paper really sealed the deal for me. When it comes to filming the videos, it doesn't take too much extra work to film those hiking shots. Both the camera and the tripod I use are easily accessible without taking my pack off, so I can get the camera up and running in no time. I choose especially scenic sections of those trails, so taking a moment to enjoy the scenery while setting up the video shots makes those extra steps all worthwhile. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@davidabbs4459]

I thought the cracked mud shot was beautiful, for me the non pano shot has a really interesting gradient from warm to cool, I think the pano crop although stunning took a bit of that gradient which for me is the magic in that shot, really beautiful work though either way beautifully executed.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks David! Since making the video, those are my thoughts as well. The color gradient looked really special when I made a test print of the photo. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@kannibaal]

Like the cracked mud shot! Prefer the full frame over the pano crop, just my 2c

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Elbert! Since creating this video, my preference has shifted back to the original crop. I did some test prints, and somehow seeing the photo on paper solidified my view of it. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@ianhull5275]

Superb video again mate. I preferred the original instead of the panoramic edit. Ian.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Ian! That is what I have decided as well. It definitely shows the color transition better than a panoramic crop. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@duringthemeanwhilst]

I prefer the full version of the mud - looks a little like a boneyard! also, at the start there I thought you'd killed an alligator!!

[@BenHorne]

It sure was fun to work with that mud. In that entire canyon, that was the only section of mud I found, and it just happened to be in an area with great light. Since making the video, I've also swung back toward the full frame version of that photo. I did a test print, and seeing it on paper really solidified the decision. The color gradient looks really nice on paper. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@terrywbreedlove]

No crop but if I did I would look at a fatter 16x9 maybe.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Terry! Since creating this video, my preference has shifted back to the uncropped version as well. It really is quite interesting how our perception changes with time. In any case, I did some test prints of this photo, and it looked really nice on paper. That really solidified the notion of going with the original crop.

[@tarheelgarden]

I think less crop on the mud shot and crop some of the top on the arch so the arch is more dominant. I like them both.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Joe! I keep bouncing around the idea of cropping the mud shot, but the original aspect ratio is speaking to me a bit more now. It's really interesting that you mention cropping the arch shot. I hadn't thought of that, and will see how it looks. That's definitely a scene I want to give another try though. The lens I was using for that has a max aperture of f/12.5 so it's quite dim which made it tough to see the entire composition. I was quite happy with how Velvia handled the color differentiation of that scene though. Thanks as always for watching and commenting!

[@runninblue9415]

Can Velvia not take being pushed a stop? Rather than exposing a second sheet? Just curious as I've never used it. Not a fan of the mud panorama, (,feels weak on the left) but whole frame is just beautiful, well seem 👍 thank you

[@BenHorne]

It can be pushed a stop, but velvia is already a very contrasty film, and pushing it one stop will further increase the contrast. Also, I would need to stay much more organized in terms of knowing which sheet needs to be pushed, and I'd probably mess that up. Even though I only had 6 sheets of Velvia on this trip, I figured exposing a second sheet would give me the best chance at not messing it up. I really do wish there was a super lightweight film changing bag. There's gotta be some sort of super lightweight lightproof material that also isn't prone to static charge.

[@thiagoperilo7913]

Are you going to sell prints of the dried mud? I loved it!

[@thiagoperilo7913]

And I think i like the panoramic crop a little more, but both are beautiful!

[@BenHorne]

Hi Thiago! Thanks! Yes, this one will definitely be on my site at some point. I'll need to have it drum scanned first. It will also be included in my 2020 portfolio box set. I just made a big batch of prints for the box set the other day. It looks really awesome on paper.

[@vishwasnagaraju8260]

I would go with the no crop shot. It lead me to the center without much distraction. The light and the patterns make me focus on the center which also cool. As @Joe Choi suggested concentrating just on the lower arc, that would have looked much better ? Which would also avoided some of the bottom parts of the image. Just for info, ain't there a higher tele lens than the one you used on this shot ? Anyways loved both the shot, did not feel it to be a failed trip :)

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Vishwas! Since creating that video, I've gravitated toward using the full version of the mud photo. I made a test print of it, and seeing it on paper really helped me decide. The color graduation looks beautiful in print. When it comes to the photo with the arch, that was taken with my 450mm lens which isn't my longest lens, but it's the longest lens that will work on my super lightweight 8x10. I also have a 600mm, but the Intrepid doesn't have enough bellows draw for that lens. Overall I'm happy with the results from the trip, but the experience itself was quite strange. That's something I hope will be better next time I get out there again-hopefully in the near future. Thanks as always Vishwas!

[@CamBlakePhotography]

Amazing landscape mate. I think I like the full frame version of the dried mud. Looks like a jigsaw puzzle or something like that incomplete. The second shot is lovely. The wall textures and colours are wonderful. Good to see a video and good to see you out and about. 👍👍

[@BenHorne]

Thanks as always Cam! That section of dried mud sure was fun to find, especially since it was the only area like that in the entire canyon, and it just happened to be in an area with really nice light.

[@stuartbaines2843]

An enjoyable return to a familiar canyon 👍 I can see your thinking on both images, but my initial impression is they are both fine as is. The Panoramic is too tight to my eye. The arch provides a frame for your image any lower and it would not. Watch out for the forecast heatwave!

[@BenHorne]

That's a good point about the arch framing the image Stuart. I also didn't want the arch to be too far away from the tree at the bottom part. I like it when the overlapping elements interact a bit more. I'll have to see what I can come up with when I return to that canyon, but at least it's good to know that I have a decently workable photo of that scene already.

[@larryrudnick1519]

The mud cracks shot was fascinating, especially with the 2 tones - cool to warm. The tree with the arch was a very cool scene and I think some more room at the top would have been a little better but the ledge the trees was sitting on was also pretty interesting. Seeing you put the camera pack on made me feel tired just just watching it. I'm curious about that interesting observation you made about the disturbance still evident in the ground surrounding the tree you photographed 3 years ago - what did you see as that evidence (plants a little trampled, etc.)? In the eastern forests, there would have been no sign of human presence even from a few months before (unless someone had ripped up plants or cut a tree). Thanks.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Larry! The scene with the tree and the arch was a tricky one to work with. I's a simple scene at first glance, but there are so many different variables. I hope to do a bit better with it next time, but we'll see. Perhaps the version I ended up with on this trip is about the best I can do. We'll see. With regard to the impact of my footsteps in that area, the remaining evidence after 3 years was a very mild depression in the sandy slope. I was careful not to step on any plants, but you could see the path that I had walked up. It was definitely quite enlightening to see.

[@unityoc]

Hi Ben, has your video colour science changed recently by any chance? i.e. have you switched to a different camera manufacturer? I may be imagining things but - having watched your videos for years - this video strikes me as much more cool and realistic than usual. For me it always made sense that the video would be closer to your Velvia and shots in look so that the difference between the video and the shots isn't as jarring. Anyway, just a small thing to point out - great video as always and stay safe over there!

[@BenHorne]

I did indeed use a new camera for the backpacking portion of this trip, but it shouldn't be that much different from what I've used in the past. My previous backpacking video kit was a Sony RX100V. I loved the video qualty, but audio was tough since it didn't have a mic jack. Instead, I plugged an external mic into a tiny audio recorder and synced the audio after the fact. On this trip, I used the new Sony ZV-1, which has a mic jack and built in hotshoe. The menus and options look very similar between them, and I was very happy with the RX100V, so I transferred those same exact settings over to the ZV-1. That all being said, this isn't to say that the same settings on the ZV-1 will give the exact same results as the RX100V. There may be some changes that have happened behind the scenes. I didn't really notice any big changes on my end though. In practice, both of those cameras have a very impressive range of tones in the shadows just so long as you don't clip your highlights. Overall, I'm quite impressed with the ZV-1, especially when paired with the little selfie tripod remote accessory. My primary kit when close to my truck will remain the Sony A7sII, but it sure is nice to have a compact kit with decent audio now as well.

[@andrewbeasley]

Forgot to ask. With the under exposed mud- why not try to sort during development rather than take another short on the limited stock you had? One stop is not that much to fix on that film is it? I've done it on 100 and 200 ASA 120 with no real impact. And yes - the pano works very well as it gives you an area to look at the colour change without drifting all over trying to make sense of the mud patterns.

[@BenHorne]

I have push processed slide film in the past and even though it turned out quite good, the overall contrast was higher, which bugged me a bit since Velvia already has some pretty strong contrast. If I was working with Provia, I likely would have been more satisfied with doing that. The other tricky thing is keeping things organized well enough so I can tell the lab which shot needs to be pushed. In the end, I find it's easier just to expose a second sheet of film. I do wish I had a super lightweight film changing bag for these backpacking trips though. All the options out there tend to be very heavy.

[@andrewbeasley]

Ben Horne never thought about the contrast - with my 120 being scanned its a side effect I got used to I suppose! Know what you mean about the weight of bags - mine feels about the same as my coat but I only need it every 12 pictures at roll end or if I decide to change stock mid-roll unlike yourself 😁 Never sure if I take it while out or manage with just the one roll - I could not cope with the call you have to make each time!

[@arca-swissusa1101]

@@BenHorne If you metered that scene with a 1 degree spot meter using a zone system indicator, I bet the contrast only covered 2 zones. If that was the case, push processing 1 stop might have produced an enhanced contrast effect. You can easliy mark your film holders with white artist's tape, ready for note taking when there is a need. Or on Toyo holder's. use a pencil and indicate the location and the +1 development in the white area at the top of the holder. It can be erased later. I prefer the full image rather than the crop. A small amount of darkening at the bottom in post would bring the eye towards the center of the image first. As always, great video Ben!

[@billywalker89005]

Hey Ben, great work as always. I think a long rectangular version of the mud would make a great wall image. As far as the sandstone is concerned, the composition is a good one in my opinion. If you include more top, the area above the arch, I think you would end up with an image of "sameness" due to the same coloration above the arch. It could become a scenario of "where do I look". In the existing composition, where the arch, and somewhat the tree as well, the arch becomes the focal point, and I think helps to make the composition stronger. My 2 cents worth. I do think the mud image is the stronger of the two.

[@BenHorne]

Thanks Billy! Since making this video, I have gravitated back toward embracing the full version of the mud photo, though just like how you mentioned, I think it would do well printed large on a wall in the panoramic format. Large prints benefit from being quite simple in nature, and perhaps the full version might be a bit too much at times when printed large. I also appreciate your thoughts about the photo of the arch. It's a subject I hope to return to on a future trip, and it will be nice to revisit this scene to see if I can do any better with it. On the plus side, it's great that I have the first version of it because that could very well be the best solution. Only time will tell. Thanks for watching and commenting Billy!

[@onefoxstudio]

Meh

[@BenHorne]

Sounds like my cat. 😂👍