Let’s go to the Beach!
But wait…it’s December
Glencoe Beach
So, what do you find when you go to the beach on a chilly Sunday in December? Not much! Hard to believe it’s the same “Lake Michigan” that is crowded in the warmer months. But, it’s still gorgeous and inviting…though in a different way. Aha…that makes for some interesting photo opportunities!
And when I added my new “toy” to my photography arsenal (a 15 stop neutral density filter which allows for looong time exposures) and tried it out for the first time there, I was almost giddy with the possibilities!
That white mark on the sky is actually a block of clouds that streaked across the image during a 64 second exposure. I thought it was kinda cool.
Glencoe Beach
Later on, as I was taking even longer exposures, I looked out and saw a kayaker on the tranquil lake. But he was going by while I was in the middle of a multi-minute exposure which made my camera unavailable. Drat! But, lucky me….I “switched modes” and caught him with a normal exposure as he returned, going the other direction. I remember thinking that I was a little crazy to be out there shooting time exposures….but what was HE doin’ out there??
Glencoe Beach
Here’s another time exposure. This one was 281 seconds! Notice how that totally smoothed out the water and the moving clouds seem. And, it’s amazing to see the colors that appear late in the day! I thought there was a nice contrast between the warm tones of the stones and the cool tones of the water and sky.
Glencoe Beach
Look at the colors and softness in this 327 second exposure! Difficult to distinguish between the water and the sky! I love those shades and tones.
Now that I’ve had a chance to experiment with this new filter, I’m gonna keep goin’ back to this area as the weather changes to see what I can find. Fun!!
And I’ve got some other ideas of where and how I can use this new tool. More fun.
-Stephen M. Levin
“My Mind’s Eye”
www.stephenmlevinphotos.com
What a great investment! Just love the pics and how serene that nasty lake can be. The time exposure really picked up the colors of the stones and to me, made that one of your finer shots Stephen.
Yes…it can be nasty. But it was actually relatively calm when I took these photos. I’ll have to go back….
Glad you like it. Thanks!
Go walking with group on Saturday mornings throughout the year, at the Glencoe Beach. We love seeing how the lake and surrounding area change.
Enjoyed your photos.
Let’s keep our eyes open for each other there!
(I’ll bet it gets pretty cold…)
Thanks, Ronna.
“… it’s still gorgeous and inviting…though in a different way.” YES! The only thing that can cure a dance addiction is a beach addiction. I love how you got the color out of those pebbles.
I love the idea of your presenting the beach in its so-called off season.
Of course, I will send you my recent song “Worship the Sun on a Cold Rainy Day”.
Hmmm….I’m getting an inspiration for another photo at the beach! Or maybe another beach?! Why not take advantage of one of the greatest assets of our area?
Yep….semd it along, please.
Thanks, Dave.
I like the atmosphere – serene yet ominous. Get your hat, gloves and boots ready for the next excursion – getting colder!
Maybe you’ll go back with me! Brrr….
Great thoughts and really great images. Love the long exposures. Especially drawn to 3 and 4!