Tom’s Thumb, Monochrome Reprise

It seems like sunrises and sunsets often demand color. But, once the sun is up and color is no longer a key element in the composition, monochrome may be the answer.

Of course, it all depends on the subject matter, the tonal range of the scene, and so on.

Granite Sunrise, #1. McDowell Mountains, Arizona, 2014

The flag was as we found it:

Patriotic Granite. McDowell Mountains, Arizona, 2014

The Mazatzal Mountains in the distance (pronounced MAT-uh-zell by locals):

Mazatzal Mist, #2. McDowell Mountains, Arizona, 2014

Tom’s Thumb is the big plug in the foreground, second formation from the right. Weaver’s Needle can be seen on the far, misty, horizon:

Tom’s Thumb Vista. McDowell Mountains, Arizona, 2014

Some of the odd formations you’ll find:

Granite Formation, #1. McDowell Mountains, Arizona, 2014

Granite Formation, #2. McDowell Mountains, Arizona, 2014

A friendly “Adios”:

Granite Shadows. McDowell Mountains, Arizona, 2014