Iconic Locations Assignment Winner Darlene Gillespie

“I had spent several days in Yosemite; despite the fact I live a few hours away and have for many years, it was my first time there,” explains Gillespie. “I had been shooting in and around the valley and could see a storm rolling in. I immediately headed up to Tunnel View to catch the incoming storm in a variety of lighting opportunities. When I arrived at Tunnel View, I had plenty of company. While I'm confident that it storms often in Yosemite, the objective of any photographer is to be fortunate enough to capture the dramatic skies as they come in through the valley. I’ve heard many say, ‘I've been there several times and have never had storm clouds,’ so I was fortunate enough on this day and for my first time. I spent a good hour shooting often and varied shots. After returning to my hotel, assessing what I had captured and was thrilled with the results, I knew it was going to be black and white. My true passion is black and white, and for this image, it was an obvious choice for truly conveying the nature of the dramatic skies.”

Nikon D850, 14-24mm lens. Exposure: 1/1250 sec., f7.1, ISO 64.