The Winter Freeze Continues…..
As December draws to an end, the frigid temps continue to create beautiful ice sculptures along the roadcuts in the Hudson Highlands.
Nikon Zfc with Nikkor Z26mm lens. 1/125 sec, f/9, ISO 500. Hoya Circular Polarizer Filter employed to cut the glare and help bring out details.
Roadside icicles form as a result of temperature fluctuations, where melting snow and ice percolates through cracks and fissures in the bedrock only to freeze again as temperatures drop. These striking formations dangle precariously from faces of roadcuts all along major highways. Their sharp, crystalline structures contrast with the soft white of the snow, drawing the eye and offering a reminder of the harshness of winter. While they can be beautiful, icicles can also pose safety hazards if they break off unexpectedly, making their presence both captivating and concerning along the roadsides during the colder months.
The image captured above reminds me of the pipes of an organ situated side by side in the loft of a cathedral.
Tech Tip - Photographing icicles offers a unique opportunity to capture the intricate beauty of winter. The delicate formations, often hanging precariously from ledges, cracks and fissures can create stunning visual compositions. Their crystalline structure refracts light in fascinating ways, resulting in a play of shadows and highlights that can transform a simple scene into a work of art. To successfully photograph icicles, it's essential to pay attention to the angle of the light, as well as the background, which can enhance the contrast and clarity of the ice. Setting your White Balance to a cooler temperature insures that you will capture the bluish hue of the thick ice.
