Size: 7.5” x 7.5” on 8.5” x 11” JonCone Studio Type 5 Paper

Signed & stamped in verso

A an artistic study is a poetic discourse meant to analyze a subject. Like a scientific study, its aim is understanding, but unlike a scientific study this insight is not to show data but to show metaphor or an expression or a relationship.

The waterfalls of Yosemite Valley make a perfect study for they have a seasonal life that is tied to the annual snowpack in the higher elevations. Some, like Yosemite Falls, will dry up completely by midsummer. Vernal Falls, at the eastern end of the Valley, does not dry completely but its flow rate dramatically alters throughout the year. The Mist Trail that winds its way up its southern flank provides vantage points that are typically difficult to get to with other waterfalls. I’ve hiked this section more times than I can count and every time I’m there it’s different.

With no direct light on the waterfall I had complete control of the tonality and wanted to emphasize the rich, almost velvety feel of the water. I placed the highlights in the water on Zone VII and let the shadows fall wherever they would. In printing, I further enhanced the contrast and dodged the water to bring it out even more. This is my favorite Vernal Falls image I’ve taken.

Location: Yosemite Valley

Technical Info: Hasselblad, Kodak T-Max 100, Zeiss 80mm, Polarizer, 3-Stop ND, developed in Kodak X-tol 1:1.