Photographing Yosemite: Digital Field Guide

16.2. Where Can I Get the Best Shot?

There are two main locations where you can photograph these peaks. The first location is along the Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River as it parallels the Tioga Pass Road; look for marker T36 (see A on the map). The second location is in a reflecting pond about 1 mile east of T36 (see B on the map).

The best locations from which to photograph Mount Dana and Mount Gibbs: (A) Dana Fork at marker T36, (B) reflecting pond.

16.2.1. Dana Fork at marker T36

From this marker, you can see both peaks and use the Dana Fork as a foreground element in your image (see figure 16.1). The Dana Fork offers a strong leading line that draws your eye back to the grand peaks. This location gives you a strong overall image that captures many of the qualities of the High Country showing meandering rivers and looming peaks.

Figure 16.1. Mount Dana and Mount Gibbs with the Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River in the foreground (see A on the map) in the early afternoon on a summer day. Taken at ISO 100, f/13, 1/80 second with a 17mm lens.

16.2.2. Reflecting pond

Just about 1 mile east of marker T36, a small reflecting pond is on the south side of the road (see B on the map). From here you get a great view of Mount Gibbs and if you walk around the pond, you can see Mount Dana ...