View allAll Photos Tagged its_dramatic
Capping over the slight hump (and watershed divide) at Red Rock, MPDOG crosses the site of the natural earthen dam which held Lake Bonneville from draining into the Snake River until its dramatic failure many, many years ago. The evidence can be seen thousands of feet up the Wasatch Front, and hundreds of miles West into the Snake River Plain. Today it's a calm place with an occasional train to make the scene.
- The last light of day paints the limestone ranges of Phong Nha – Ke Bang in shades of gold and shadow.
- Hidden in central Vietnam, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dramatic limestone mountains, mysterious caves, and pristine underground rivers. Home to the world’s largest cave, Son Doong, and the stunning Phong Nha and Paradise Caves, this destination invites travelers to explore untouched jungles, crystal-clear streams, and ancient karst landscapes. Whether you’re into adventure travel, cave exploration, or nature photography, Phong Nha is a true paradise waiting to be discovered.
The single-track Quiraing Road through the mountain pass of the Trotternish Peninsula, with its dramatic hairpin bends and steep gradients, linking the villages of Staffin and Uig, is even more challenging in the summer season because of increased tourist traffic heading to its highest point to enjoy the panoramic views!
Picture in the “Coastline” section of the “Leica Fotografie International” (LFI) magazine’s online gallery.
In 2023 Reynisfjara has been ranked by TripAdvisor as the 'Best of the Best' beaches in Europe.
This stunning black sand beach along the South Coast of Iceland is located beside the small village of Vik i Myrdal. It's known for its dramatic natural landscapes: hexagonal basalt columns, the Halsanefshellir Sea Cave, and large rock formations that rise out of the sea. But be careful when visiting though—the spot is prone to sneaker waves that can crash ashore unexpectedly. Try to keep a safe distance of at least 100 feet from the shoreline, and avoid turning your back towards the waves. This spot is often included as a stop on a full-day tour of the South Coast. – ( source:Tripadvisor)
In the background, one can see the impressive sea cliffs named Reynisdrangar.
As with almost all bizarre features in this country, there is an Icelandic folk tale that explains the origin of the Reynisdrangar pillars and their eerie appearance.
According to legend, a couple of trolls saw a ship out to sea by night, and waded out to reach it. They got hold of it, and began to drag it to shore, but as so often happens in troll stories, they got their timing wrong.
Before they were even close to getting to the shade, dawn broke. The trolls and ship were instantly frozen into stone, and they have remained immortalised since, as a warning to their kin.
"Heliconia rostrata 'Parrot's Beak,' also known as Hanging Lobster Claw, is one of the most recognizable and striking tropical plants, renowned for its dramatic, pendulous bracts. The vibrant red and yellow bracts are complemented by green accents, giving it a vivid, parrot-like appearance. This bold and exotic plant is often a focal point in tropical gardens and makes a stunning addition to both landscapes and large containers."
www.gardencentresunshinecoast.com.au/products/heliconia-r...
Última Esperanza Sound (the ‘Last Hope Sound’ or the 'Inlet of Last Hope') is an inlet stretching from the mouth of Eberhard Fjord to the outskirts of Mount Balmaceda, within the Magallanes Basin.
Juan Ladrillero, the 16th-century Spanish navigator and explorer, named it so in 1557, because he felt it was this direction was his last chance to reach the Strait of Magellan. The inlet ends at a glacier, and not at the strait.
Within just a few decades of exploration of the area by the Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan, Juan Ladrillero, who from 1557 to 1559 explored the coast of Chile from Valdivia to the Barbara Channel between Clarence Island and Santa Ines Island. He was the first to navigate the Strait of Magellan from its western entrance to its eastern and back again.
navigator
This area is known for its dramatic landscapes, fjords, and proximity to Torres del Paine National Park.
The water is a fjord, which is a long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, created by a glacier.
In the background are the Andes Mountains, a vast mountain range extending along the western coast of South America.
Taken in Patagonia. Chile.
This is one of my own favorite; I think I am so lucky to find such a view and surroundings specially the twin tree standing so bluntly striking a shadow on the river. I had two shots of this scene, the one which I accidentally deleted in my camera was perfectly framed and it had more detailed shadows and texture. 2nd one is this one, which I had to heavily edit in photoshop to put everything in right order. In this process the boat got longer and few ghosting effect of the foliage can be seen if you make it large.
I have experimented with light and shadow here. Below or over this point the picture loses its dramatic appeal.
This picture depicts a mood of the constant struggle of life through it’s various paths in darkness, light and obstacles.
Feel free to tell me your feelings.
Lens: EF-S17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
Camera: Canon EOS 40D
Location: Marishya, Khagrachori, Chittagong, Bangladesh
All contents herein are copyrighted © by Shabbir Ferdous Photography
Except where otherwise noted. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.
Of all the rainbow colors the Wheeling’s east end has to offer, these white ex-CITX units are certainly my least favorites. They blow out your photos in daylight, and dull your colors in winter shots much like here. If I could put any engine up for immediate repaint it would be the two sporting this lousy scheme.
Despite that, I feel like this is a good enough shot that it’s post worthy. 218 making its dramatic exit from State Line Tunnel as they head east with a max tonnage train.
Not long after I took this photo, the 6992 would be involved in a low speed head-on collision while working the SWP interchange at Everson. The 6992 sustained enough front frame damage that it received a nose rebuild at Brewster shops, in the process the striped nose now turned blank primer, making this unit truly an eye sore.
Talisker Bay is a beautiful, secluded bay on the west coast of the Isle of Skye, Scotland. Known for its dramatic scenery, it’s a popular spot for visitors and families willing to make the 20-30 minute, easy walk from a small car park. The beach is a mix of sand and shingle, with black and white sand often blending together to create a marbled effect, particularly at low tide. Being west facing it offers spectacular sunsets for photographers, unfortunately on my visit recently the tide was out but I got amazing views out to the mysterious Isle of Rum which seemed to be suspended on a vale of mist.
The Enys Dodnan Arch is a natural rock formation located in Cornwall, England, specifically on the coastline near the popular tourist destination of Land's End. It's one of the many stunning geological features that adorn the rugged coastline of Cornwall, known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque landscapes.
Behind Enys is the Armed Knight that gets its name from its distinctive shape, which resembles a knight in armour holding a sword. This natural rock formation has been sculpted over millions of years by the erosive forces of wind and sea, creating a unique and striking landmark along the coastline.
In the distance you can see the Longships Lighthouse. Built in 1875, it stands as a sentinel against treacherous waters, guiding ships safely through the Western Approaches. Its distinctive white tower rises from a rocky islet, offering a beacon of hope amidst turbulent seas.
Some light painting at Mono Lake in the Eastern Sierra. the background light is the town of Lee Vining.
Mono Lake is a shallow salt water lake located in the high desert on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, in California in the United States. The lake has no outlet to the ocean causing high levels of salts to accumulate in the waters. As a consequence of its high salinity, no fish live in Mono Lake, but there are plenty of brine shrimp that thrive in its waters. Over two million annual migratory birds use Mono Lake as a stop over and resting place as they fly to South America or the tropical oceans. They feed on the shrimps, lay eggs and hatch their young ones here.
The most unusual feature of Mono Lake are its dramatic tufa towers emerging from the surface. These rock towers form when underwater springs rich in calcium mix with the waters of the lake, which are rich in carbonates. The resulting reaction forms limestone. Over time the buildup of limestone formed towers, and when the water level of the lake dropped the towers became exposed.
LILIX – Dragon's Ascension Crown
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Just to complete the set here is another shot from our east coast tour on Thursday.
This was at the Bullars of Buchan with its dramatic cliffs and rock formations.
This image is available printed, framed or on canvas here.
The Oriental Garden in the Park & Tilford Gardens is best known for its dramatic Moon Gate, distinctive arched bridge, and brilliant blue terracotta tiles.
This image captures a quiet moment along the historic via Umberto I in Taormina, Sicily, Italy. The backdrop is defined by a building characterized by its terracotta-hued facade, framing a central arched doorway with an ornate wrought-iron gate and flanking rectangular windows set with limestone surrounds. Architectural motifs, including small stone Star of David reliefs embedded above the doorframe, offer a visual nod to the complex historical layers of the region, where various cultural and religious influences intersected over centuries of Mediterranean trade and governance.
Geographically situated on a cliff terrace 206 meters above the Ionian Sea, Taormina has long served as a strategic and vibrant cultural hub in eastern Sicily. The city’s economy thrives on international tourism, drawn by its remarkable heritage, including the ancient Greco-Roman theater, and its dramatic views of Mount Etna. Visitors to Taormina frequently indulge in eastern Sicily’s rich culinary traditions, which feature iconic dishes such as pasta alla Norma—a pasta dish elevated by fried eggplant, salted ricotta, and fresh basil—along with fresh seafood specialties, crisp local Etna DOC wines, and classic Sicilian desserts like cannoli and almond granita.
The photograph documents everyday life amid this historic setting, depicting two pedestrians navigating the wet, dark-paved street under an umbrella on an overcast day. The contrast between the damp stone paving and the warm, weathered plaster of the building emphasizes the tactile quality of the urban environment, blending historical architecture seamlessly with contemporary life.
RX_02503_20240509_Taormina
This photo was taken in Banff National Park near the Plain of Six Glaciers, close to the Lake Louise area.
The image shows a rocky stream running through a subalpine forest of Engelmann spruce and fir, with sunlight highlighting the jagged peaks of the Victoria Glacier.
Key features include Mount Victoria, known for its glacier that gives Lake Louise its turquoise colour; Mount Lefroy, notable for its steep shape and historical significance; Abbot Pass, a saddle between Victoria and Lefroy, home to the Abbot Pass Refuge Cabin; and Mount Aberdeen, contributing to the area's hanging glaciers.
The region is famous for its dramatic landscape and mountaineering history.
I love taking pictures of Bleeding Heart with its dramatic arcs of heart-shaped pink (or white) flowers.
Throwback Thursday
Pastel View
North Window
Arches National Park
Moab, Utah
Arches National Park is a stunningly beautiful and unique natural wonder located in eastern Utah. It is home to over 2,000 naturally formed sandstone arches, as well as a variety of other geological formations such as spires, fins, and balanced rocks. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning views, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the red rock formations are bathed in warm, golden light. With its otherworldly landscapes and unique geological features, Arches National Park is truly a must-see destination!
Sailing towards Trollfjorden 20250617
Raftsundet is a narrow sea channel in northern Norway, located between the islands of Austvågsøya in the Lofoten archipelago and Hinnøya in the Vesterålen islands. It stretches for about 25 kilometers and connects the Vestfjorden in the south to the Hadselfjorden in the north.
The channel is renowned for its dramatic scenery: steep mountains rise directly from the water, creating a striking backdrop for passing boats. Along its course, several small side fjords branch off - the most famous of which is Trollfjorden, a tiny yet spectacular fjord with sheer cliffs and a width so narrow that ships seem barely able to enter.
Raftsundet is also known for its rich wildlife, including sea eagles and seabirds, and is a popular route for cruise ships, Hurtigruten coastal express vessels, and kayaking adventures.
Not a sunny day in the Eastern Sierras today!
Mono Lake is a shallow salt water lake located in the high desert on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, in California in the United States. The lake has no outlet to the ocean causing high levels of salts to accumulate in the waters. As a consequence of its high salinity, no fish live in Mono Lake, but there are plenty of brine shrimp that thrive in its waters. Over two million annual migratory birds use Mono Lake as a stop over and resting place as they fly to South America or the tropical oceans. They feed on the shrimps, lay eggs and hatch their young ones here.
The most unusual feature of Mono Lake are its dramatic tufa towers emerging from the surface. These rock towers form when underwater springs rich in calcium mix with the waters of the lake, which are rich in carbonates. The resulting reaction forms limestone. Over time the buildup of limestone formed towers, and when the water level of the lake dropped the towers became exposed.
"Miami Tower is a 47-story office skyscraper, renowned for its dramatic exterior glass tiers and elaborate color-changing light installations that make it one of the most photographed buildings in the Miami skyline.
The prestigious office tower is in the heart of downtown Miami and home to many of Miami's established and most influential firms. Miami Tower was designed by I.M. Pei, who is often called a Master of Modern Architecture, and is known for cutting edge designs such as the Louvre Pyramid in Paris."
The view through this sea arch leads to an isolated beach, nestled below the cliffs towering above. I took well over a hundred photos while sailing up the Nā Pali Coast. It’s the perfect landscape photographer’s playground with its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches.
CALADIUMS in a public garden in Stockholm
Caladiums are tropical perennials with colorful, heart-shaped leaves native to tropical forests in South and Central America.
This is an “old-fashioned” plant, having been in cultivation in Europe since the late 1700’s, used for its dramatic foliage. The leaves generally have prominently colored midribs, contrasting margins, and patterns including mottled, veined and striped, in various combinations and shades of green, white, pink, rose and/or red.
Peaking at 463 meters (1519 feet), Kirkjufell or 'Church Mountain' is a striking landmark on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and is often called ‘the most photographed mountain in Iceland’ due to its dramatic formation and perfect coastal location.
It was late afternoon on a cloudy day by the time we reached this spot and the light was fading quickly so it was a race against time to catch a few decent photos. That said, I'm pretty happy with what I got :-)
The Wuyi Mountains or Wuyishan[1] (Chinese: 武夷山; pinyin: Wǔyí Shān; Pe̍h-ōe-jī: Bú-î-soaⁿ; formerly known as Bohea Hills in early Western documents) are a mountain range located in the prefecture of Nanping, in northern Fujian province near the border with Jiangxi province, China. The highest peak in the area is Mount Huanggang at 2,158 metres (7,080 ft) on the border of Fujian and Jiangxi, making it the highest point of both provinces; the lowest altitudes are around 200 metres (660 ft). Many oolong and black teas are produced in the Wuyi Mountains, including Da Hong Pao ('big red robe') and lapsang souchong, and are sold as Wuyi tea. The mountain range is known worldwide for its status as a refugium for several rare and endemic plant species, its dramatic river valleys, and the abundance of important temples and archeological sites in the region, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.[2] —- WikiPedia
The rugged coastline of Cala Encendida (Roche) comes alive as the sun makes its dramatic descent. Golden light bathes the ancient rock formations, while the Atlantic waves crash with captivating energy, painting the wet sand with a shimmering glow. This long-exposure captures the dynamic interplay of water, earth, and sky in a truly unforgettable Andalusian evening.
The Great Torii on Itsukushima (Miyajima) Island near Hiroshima. Part of the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From Wikipedia: Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.
The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.
2-door or 4? Take your pick.
The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is one of the most recognizable and highly prized classic cars in American automotive history. As the pinnacle of the mid-century "Tri-Five" generation, it is celebrated for its dramatic tailfins, chrome accents, and jet-age styling
Offered with multiple V-8 options, most notably the legendary 283 cu in (4.6L) V-8. High-performance models featured dual four-barrel carburetors or cutting-edge mechanical Rochester Fuel Injection.
The design features bullet sights on the hood, gold anodized grille inserts, and aluminum side trim specific to the Bel Air trim level. Available in multiple configurations including 2-door and 4-door hardtops, convertibles, and the highly coveted 2-door Nomad station wagon.
The base Price: Ranged from roughly \(\$2,400\) to \(\$2,700\) when new, depending on the body style.
Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of the U.S. state of California, between Carmel Highlands and San Simeon, where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. It is frequently praised for its dramatic scenery. Big Sur has been called the "longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States", a sublime "national treasure that demands extraordinary procedures to protect it from development", and "one of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world, an isolated stretch of road, mythic in reputation". The views, redwood forests, hiking, beaches, and other recreational opportunities have made Big Sur a popular destination for visitors from across the world. With 4.5 to 7 million visitors annually, it is among the top tourist destinations in the United States, comparable to Yosemite National Park, but with considerably fewer services, and less parking, roads, and related infrastructure.
Big Sur Village is a collection of small roadside businesses and homes. The larger region known as Big Sur does not have specific boundaries but is generally considered to include the 71-mile (114 km) segment of California State Route 1 between Malpaso Creek near Carmel Highlands in the north and San Carpóforo Creek near San Simeon in the south, as well as the entire Santa Lucia range between these creeks. The interior region is mostly uninhabited, while the coast remains relatively isolated and sparsely populated, with between 1,800 and 2,000 year-round residents and relatively few visitor accommodations scattered among four small settlements. The region remained one of the most inaccessible areas of California and the entire United States until, after 18 years of construction, the Carmel–San Simeon Highway (now signed as part of State Route 1) was completed in 1937. Along with the ocean views, this winding, narrow road, often cut into the face of towering seaside cliffs, dominates the visitor's experience of Big Sur. The highway has been closed more than 55 times by landslides, and in May 2017, a 2,000,000-cubic-foot slide blocked the highway at Mud Creek, north of Salmon Creek near the San Luis Obispo County line, to just south of Gorda. The road was reopened on July 18, 2018.
The region is protected by the Big Sur Local Coastal Plan, which preserves it as "open space, a small residential community, and agricultural ranching." Approved in 1986, the plan is one of the most restrictive local-use programs in the state, and is widely regarded as one of the most restrictive documents of its kind anywhere. The program protects viewsheds from the highway and many vantage points, and severely restricts the density of development. About 60% of the coastal region is owned by governmental or private agencies which do not allow any development. The majority of the interior region is part of the Los Padres National Forest, Ventana Wilderness, Silver Peak Wilderness or Fort Hunter Liggett.
“The Second Greatest Show on Earth!”
That’s what showman P.T. Barnum proclaimed in 1869 as he stepped down off the train and marveled at the view from Mount Washington’s rocky summit. High praise indeed from the man whose grand circus occupied the primary spot.
Today, more than 150 years later, the Mount Washington Cog Railway continues to thrill passengers from all over the world with its dramatic ascent to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast.
The Cog is the first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world. With an average grade of 25% (some sections approach nearly 38%), it’s also the second steepest! Motive power is primarily provided by a fleet of seven powerful biodiesel locomotives, each custom designed, built and maintained on site. And with a nod to its steam heritage, the railway also continues to operate a pair of coal-fired steam engines in the warmer months, both well over a century old.
Commemorazione dei Defunti
Tomba Ribaudo – Onorato Toso (1852–ca.1920)
Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno, Genova.
La Tomba Ribaudo, nel Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno a Genova, è una delle opere più emozionanti dell’arte funeraria italiana.
Realizzata dallo scultore genovese Onorato Toso verso il 1885, raffigura un angelo femminile abbandonato sul sepolcro, con le ali spiegate, il volto nascosto tra le mani e un gesto di profonda disperazione.
L’intensità drammatica e la perfezione anatomica ne fanno un capolavoro del realismo simbolico ottocentesco.
L’opera è spesso confusa con l’“Angelo del Dolore” di Giulio Monteverde (Roma, 1894), ma è anteriore e ne costituì un evidente modello ispiratore.
Onorato Toso (1852 – ca. 1920) – scultore genovese attivo tra la fine dell’Ottocento e i primi del Novecento.
Allievo di Giovanni Scanzi, partecipò a varie esposizioni nazionali e realizzò numerosi monumenti per il Cimitero di Staglieno.
Le sue opere si distinguono per il forte pathos emotivo, la raffinata resa dei dettagli e la capacità di fondere dramma e poesia in forme plastiche di grande eleganza.
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The Ribaudo Tomb, in the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno (Genoa, Italy), is one of the most powerful masterpieces of Italian funerary art.
Created by Genoese sculptor Onorato Toso around 1885, it depicts a female angel collapsed over the tomb, wings spread, face hidden in her hands in a gesture of deep grief.
Its dramatic realism and emotional power make it a quintessential example of symbolic realism in 19th-century sculpture.
Often mistaken for Giulio Monteverde’s later Angel of Grief (Rome, 1894), Toso’s angel actually predates and inspired Monteverde’s composition.
Onorato Toso (1852–c.1920) was a Genoese sculptor, pupil of Giovanni Scanzi, active between the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
His works at Staglieno combine emotional realism and delicate craftsmanship, achieving a rare balance of drama and grace.
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8618 2009 rev 2025
A site looking over the valley of Kilmartin Glen in Argyll on the west coast of Scotland and opposite another site of rock art above Cairnbaan (aside the Crinan Canal - a shortcut at the top of Kintyre built from around 1794). Petroglyphs are everywhere around the Glen which is also known for its linear cemetry of large cairns and its dramatic compositions of stone rows - some decorated with cups. Cairns, crannogs and standing stones watch over.
The Archnabreac site was discovered in 2008 and is thought to be from around 5,000 ybp. This is just a portion, and the photo is from an angle that maybe best shows how the surface rock undulated down to the Glen. For the photograph, modern houses and fences were removed to simplify the reading (there were very few, and the whole valley area seems to be well managed). The image itself is a montage, with a layer set to expose structure and a second remembering colour - so, in effect a black and white tint. There is almost a sense of rain water ripples in the monolithic surface. Natural cracks are integrated into some of the designs.
For its sheer scale, this is probably one of the most important sites of cups and rings in the whole of the British Isles. With the variety of forms in adjacent sites, it is another factor that gives Kilmartin Glen a place of special importance to persons with an interest in prehistory, archaic land art, spiritual places and stone.
The site is managed by Forestry Commission Scotland so is under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
AJ
Passionate about wildlife photography? Find out more about our small-group photography tours at wildlightphotographytours.com
This was the bird that started it all. I heard the yellow-crowned gonolek call and I was immedeatly fascinated with this bird, wondering what bird that was I eventually discovered after chasing it around the neighbourhood then decided it looked so beautiful I needed the equipment to take a decent photo. That was how I got into wildlife photography!
The yellow-crowned gonolek (Laniarius barbarus) is a striking West African bushshrike known for its bold, contrasting colors and secretive behavior. Easily recognized by its vivid yellow crown, black upperparts, and bright red underparts, this species often remains hidden within dense vegetation despite its brilliant plumage. Rather than long flights, it moves quietly through thickets and forest edges, searching for insects and small prey. More often heard than seen, the yellow-crowned gonolek is famous for its rich, duetting calls between pairs, adding a musical presence to the African woodland soundscape. Its dramatic coloration and elusive nature make it a rewarding subject for wildlife photographers.
Calls:
This striking photograph features the famous Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse standing on a massive sand dune. Located in Northern Jutland, Denmark, the lighthouse is an iconic landmark known for its dramatic history of being nearly swallowed by shifting sands and coastal erosion.
The Great Torii on Itsukushima (Miyajima) Island near Hiroshima. Part of the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From Wikipedia: Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.
The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.
Badlands National Park is in South Dakota. Its dramatic landscapes span layered rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires. Bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs inhabit its sprawling grasslands. The Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) winds past scenic lookouts. Several trails begin near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. The Fossil Exhibit Trail is a boardwalk with displays on fossils uncovered in the park.
I photographed "The Count," Double-Crested Cormorant at La Jolla Cove, California, USA. Black velvet wings was its dramatic cape, bright orange gular with hooked bill and those striking teal eyes cast a spell on me!
Nannopterum auritum
All photographs are taken by me.
ALL my Fine Art Photographs are COPYRIGHTED.
The Wuyi Mountains or Wuyishan[1] (Chinese: 武夷山; pinyin: Wǔyí Shān; Pe̍h-ōe-jī: Bú-î-soaⁿ; formerly known as Bohea Hills in early Western documents) are a mountain range located in the prefecture of Nanping, in northern Fujian province near the border with Jiangxi province, China. The highest peak in the area is Mount Huanggang at 2,158 metres (7,080 ft) on the border of Fujian and Jiangxi, making it the highest point of both provinces; the lowest altitudes are around 200 metres (660 ft). Many oolong and black teas are produced in the Wuyi Mountains, including Da Hong Pao ('big red robe') and lapsang souchong, and are sold as Wuyi tea. The mountain range is known worldwide for its status as a refugium for several rare and endemic plant species, its dramatic river valleys, and the abundance of important temples and archeological sites in the region, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.[2] —- WikiPedia
English
This area is located in Hanko (Swedish: Hangö), Finland’s southernmost coastal town, shaped by a rich and turbulent geopolitical history. Strategically positioned on the Baltic Sea, Hanko has been an important seafaring berth since the 13th century, but it is most famous for its dramatic 20th-century wartime past. Following the Winter War in 1940, the Moscow Peace Treaty forced Finland to lease the entire Hanko Peninsula to the Soviet Union for 30 years to be used as a massive naval base. The entire local civilian population was evacuated overnight. In 1941, during the Continuation War, the Hanko Front saw intense trench warfare and artillery battles before the Soviet forces finally evacuated, leaving behind a heavily mined and devastated territory. Parallel to its military history, Hanko flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a prestigious spa town celebrated for its ornate wooden villa architecture. The legacy of these forced evacuations, shifts in borders, and the unforgiving Nordic climate left behind unique historic wooden remnants across the region, slowly succumbing to decay.
A Gateway Without Customs
Hanko is home to Finland's official free port (Ulkosatama), strategically located on the Tulliniemi cape. A free port operates as a unique economic enclave: it is a designated zone where cargo from all over the world can be shipped without being subject to immediate import duties, customs taxes, or direct customs inspections. Within this secured area, goods can be stored, repacked, or processed completely tax-free, as the territory is fiscally treated as "foreign soil." Customs enforcement and taxation only occur when the goods leave this designated zone to enter the Finnish domestic market. Thanks to this special status, combined with the fact that Hanko was Finland's only ice-free port during the harsh winter months, the city built a thriving and vital economy here during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Nederlands
Dit gebied bevindt zich in Hanko, een Finse kuststad met een diepe en turbulente geschiedenis. Sinds de middeleeuwen was dit schiereiland een cruciale maritieme stop, maar Hanko is internationaal vooral bekend vanwege zijn zware militaire verleden. Na de Winteroorlog werd Finland in 1940 door het Verdrag van Moskou gedwongen om Hanko voor 30 jaar te verhuren aan de Sovjet-Unie, die er een zwaarbewaakte marinebasis vestigde. De volledige burgerbevolking moest destijds halsoverkop worden geëvacueerd. Tijdens de daaropvolgende Vervolgoorlog in 1941 werd er aan het Hanko-front hevig gevochten, waarna de Sovjets zich bloederig terugtrokken en een zwaar verwoeste en gemijnde stad achterlieten. Naast dit oorlogsverleden staat Hanko sinds het eind van de 19e eeuw bekend om zijn iconische, rijk versierde houten architectuur en kuuroorden. De sporen van evacuaties, grenswijzigingen en het harde Noordse klimaat zorgen ervoor dat verspreid over de regio nog altijd oude, houten overblijfselen te vinden zijn die langzaam door de natuur worden teruggenomen.
De Vrijhaven van Hanko
Hanko bezit de officiële vrijhaven van Finland (Ulkosatama), strategisch gelegen op de kaap van Tulliniemi. Een vrijhaven fungeert als een unieke economische enclave: het is een speciale zone waar goederen vanuit de hele wereld per schip naartoe gebracht mogen worden zonder dat er direct invoerrechten, douanebelastingen of douanecontroles plaatsvinden. Binnen dit afgesloten terrein kunnen goederen volledig belastingvrij worden opgeslagen, omgepakt of bewerkt; fiscaal gezien wordt het terrein beschouwd als "buitenland". De Finse douane voert pas controles en heffingen uit op het moment dat de goederen vanuit deze zone daadwerkelijk het Finse binnenland in worden getransporteerd. Dankzij deze unieke status én het feit dat de haven van Hanko in de winter als enige in Finland ijsvrij bleef, bouwde de stad hier in de 19e en 20e eeuw een bloeiende en cruciale economie mee op.
Mateus Palace — one of Portugal’s most iconic Baroque estates — is a richly ornamented 18th‑century manor in Vila Real, famed for its dramatic façade, mirrored lake, and connection to the Mateus Rosé wine label.
A Baroque manor house designed by the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, built between 1739 and 1744 for António José Botelho Mourão, the 3rd Morgado de Mateus.
Part of a historic estate that includes a chapel, winery buildings dating back to the 16th century, and extensive gardens
Built in the 1930s as part of a beautification project, it was designed by António Enes Baganha. The structure features a balustrade and provides a picturesque setting overlooking Praia do Molhe. It has become a beloved landmark, frequently featured in photos and postcards, attracting both tourists and locals year-round. During summer, it’s a popular stop for seaside walks, while in winter, its dramatic backdrop of Atlantic storms adds to its charm.
NGC 1365 is a spectacular barred spiral galaxy about 60 million light-years away in the constellation Fornax. It’s famous for its dramatic central bar, which funnels gas toward the core and fuels intense star formation. At its heart lies an active supermassive black hole, making NGC 1365 not just beautiful but dynamic.
-=Tech Data=-
Telescope: Planewave CDK24 f/6.5
Camera: QHY 600M
Exposure time
- Luminance: 2 hours 45 min
- Red: 3 hours 20 min
- Green: 3 hours 25 min
- Blue: 2 hours 30 min
- Total :12 hours
Shot from Rio Hurtado valley, Chile via Telescope Live
The ruins of Urquhart Castle, is a historic fortress situated on the shore of Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. Once one of Scotland's largest castles, its ruins remain an iconic landmark and a popular tourist destination known for its dramatic setting and association with the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.
The castle is located on a rocky promontory on the north-western shore of Loch Ness, near the village of Drumnadrochit, Scotland. The present ruins largely date from the 13th to 16th centuries, though the site itself has evidence of fortifications from the early medieval period, with St. Columba said to have visited in the 6th century. Control of the castle frequently passed between Scottish and English forces during the Wars of Scottish Independence, and it was also raided by the MacDonald Lords of the Isles.
The castle was placed in state care in the early 20th century and is now one of the most-visited castles in Scotland, featuring a modern visitor centre where guests can learn about its history and explore the ruins.
The beautiful and now tranquil setting of Augustinian Lanercost Priory belies an often troubled history. Standing close to Hadrian's Wall, it suffered frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish wars, once by Robert Bruce in person. The mortally sick King Edward I rested here for five months in 1306-7, shortly before his death on his final campaign.
The east end of the 13th-century church survives to its full height, housing within its dramatic triple tier of arches some fine monuments.
More photos of Lanercost Priory here: www.flickr.com/photos/davidambridge/albums/72157624989399623
Tourists wading in Hiroshima Bay to get close to Miyajima's Great Torii.
The Great Torii on Itsukushima (Miyajima) Island near Hiroshima. Part of the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From Wikipedia: Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.
The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.
The beautiful and now tranquil setting of Augustinian Lanercost Priory belies an often troubled history. Standing close to Hadrian's Wall, it suffered frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish wars, once by Robert Bruce in person. The mortally sick King Edward I rested here for five months in 1306-7, shortly before his death on his final campaign.
The east end of the 13th-century church survives to its full height, housing within its dramatic triple tier of arches some fine monuments.
More photos of Lanercost Priory here: www.flickr.com/photos/davidambridge/albums/72157624989399623
Amalfi
The Amalfi Coast has a Mediterranean climate, featuring warm summers and mild winters. It is located on the relatively steep southern shore of the Sorrentine Peninsula, leaving little room for rural and agricultural development. The only land route to the Amalfi Coast is the 40 kilometres (25 mi) long Amalfi Drive (Strada Statale 163) which runs along the coastline from the town of Vieira sul Mare in the east to Positano in the west. Thirteen municipalities are located on the Amalfi Coast, many of them centred on tourism. The coast dazzles with its dramatic grottos, craggy cliffs, and shimmering bays.
Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch along the coast of southern Italy from Sorrento to Salerno. It's considered one of the most scenic coastlines in Italy and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. My first visit to Italy was inspired by photographs of the Amalfi Coast.
© Knud Hald
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We had a beautiful sunset in my hometown Schuders, a small village with just 30 people. The village is located higher up in the mountains of Graubünden, a canton in eastern Switzerland. From Wikipedia: Graubünden is known for its dramatic Alpine scenery and winter sports. St. Moritz, an upscale resort town and Winter Olympics host in 1928 and 1948, offers ski runs, an outdoor ice rink and ski jumping. Davos, home to the annual World Economic Forum, is also popular for skiing and hiking. The Engadin Valley has traditional whitewashed houses decorated with sgraffito plasterwork.
I processed a balanced and two paintery HDR photos from three RAW exposures, merged them selectively, and carefully adjusted the curves.
-- © Peter Thoeny, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0, HDR, 3 RAW exposures, NEX-6, _DSC0729_0_1_hdr3bal1pai1pai5e