Week 47 - November Light

November Light

Every season, every month, has its inspiration for our photography. Autumn color, the silent winter snow, and the bounty of spring are all apparent. Within each season, however, there are more subtle factors for us to consider. For example, in late November, the sun sits low in the sky, creating long shadows and dramatic light.

The castle in Elvas, Portugal, was built in 1229 and has witnessed thousands of sunsets. But only on several days a year does the light quietly enter through the castle gate. One of those days occurs in late November. But within the day, the briefest of moments.

As touched on in other images in this project, it becomes a case of a stage found, now waiting for a player. I quickly took this image as, right on cue, someone entered the scene. I later noticed a composition that I found more appealing. But, unfortunately, the light had changed by that time. When finally, someone entered, the shadows were soft, and the moment was gone.

The challenge of a photo of this nature is the dynamic range, managing the extremes of black and white. There is drama in the shadows, yet there should be a hint of some detail. Here, a tree finds some reflected light from the castle walls.

f6.4 1/125 sec ISO 200 November 25, 2022