Na Pali Sunset Photo

Photographer’s Note

The Na Pali Coast is a surprisingly isolated place, accessible only by helicopter, boat when the surf is not too rough, and the 11 miles long and moderately difficult Kalalau trail. Although the island of Kauai is a major tourist destination, one can hike for hours along the coast without seeing other people, especially after passing Hanakapi. The coast is equally beautiful during all seasons, however during the winter the surf is rough and swimming out of question. It also needs to be remembered that the rainiest point on earth is only a few miles away... Breathtaking views of the coast and the steep cliffs reward every step of the trail.
Following the coastline quite closely, the trail climbs up and down, crossing five valleys separated by steep, narrow ridges and passing by two backcountry campgrounds before reaching Kalalau Beach. A backcountry permit is required for those who want to follow the trail for more than the first two miles or spend the night out, and can be obtained by phone from the central office in Lihue. These permits are barely ever checked, and the occasional helicopter visits by the park authority are mainly meant to keep under control the population of hippies and self proclaimed gurus who attempt to live there permanently.
Jack London’s novel "Koolau de Leper" was based on a real drama that took place in this area. Parts for a few movies, including Jurassic Park, have been filmed here.

Cormac, weswang, kurtyang04, Paolo, A310 has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

Cormac (26455) 2006-03-05 22:42

Great shot! I really like the effect of the atmosphere on the hills, making each one look a little lighter and farther away. The sun peaking through those clouds is very special too, and elevates this to a great photo. Well done!

weswang (18223) 2006-03-06 0:38

Hi Roland, A nice shot of the beautiful sunset scene. Good timing and excellent mood. The right hand side mountain ranges are nice addition to the picture. However, it is a little too dark. I did a WS. Hope you don't mind.

[workshop] [compare]

danyy (69417) 2006-03-06 2:31

Bonjour Roland,
j'aime ces 'montagnes' qui se suivent et chacune dans une teinte légèrement différente. Une belle prise de coucher de soleil prise au meilleur moment, cela donne ces si belles couleurs et lumières.
Bien cadré, jolie 'postcard'.
Best regards
Daniel.

Ann75 (0) 2006-03-06 15:27

Hi Roland,

Amazing shot. The hue and colours in this photo are stunning. The haze in this photo gives it an extra special atmosphere. The silhouetted mountains and shrubs add a lot of depth and perspective to this photo. The sun that's still visible is a great addition to this photo. Great composition and beautifully captured. Well done, Roland!

Greetings,
Ann

LLaura (318) 2006-03-07 3:57

Beautiful sunset, Roland..
I like the contrast between the lower dark corner and the purple center. The mountains are beautiful shaped and the calm sea gives tranquillity to the image. Very romantic and wild place to go.
Thanks for sharing,
Laura

danielswalsh (13330) 2006-03-07 21:21

Well after watching all Series 1 of "Lost" last week- I've seen enough of Hawaii to last me a lifetime! Seeing this image- I start to hear the theme music... lol

Great shot Roly!
You must have been quite close to the edge of the cliff? A large cliff I'm guessing?
You were obviously camping out here considering the time of day, I could not imagine you hiked back in the dark...
I prefer your version to the workshop- as the workshoip brings out alot of the prevalent noise in the cliffs.

Cheers Roly,
- Dan

kurtyang04 (478) 2006-04-13 14:15

I agree about the detail in the dark area. I love the composition with nice layers there. Great mood in such a nice place. Once again enjoy your detailed information.

capthaddock (28640) 2006-06-02 13:26

Hi Roland - fabuluous place for a sunset, what a coincidence, I was there barely a month ago, but during the day, I wish I had time to walk the whole trail, I only made it as far as this spot, I was flying out that same afternoon, I will post my version to WS.

[workshop] [compare] +

Paolo (40753) 2006-10-19 11:29

Hi Roland, wonderufl sunset view; the quality is really high and also the compiosition with a large space dedicated to mountains and cliffs with different tones is really brilliant.
excellent also the exposure and the light.
and also the note.
thanks, ciao

dcawker (5691) 2006-11-01 13:39

Beautiful gradation of colors and and really nice composition as well! Regards, Doug

A310 (418) 2006-12-02 20:37 [Comment]

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