Sky bound

February 25th, 2010

This is probably one of my favourite photographs in the last couple of months and I’m not sure if it’s because of the impressive location or the nice blue sky. Either way, I’m happy with the way it came out and I’m not gonna try and find too many explanations why. It was taken from the top of The Address Hotel in Dubai, which gives a brilliant view of the Burj Khalifa (or Burj Dubai as it was known for 5 years) and its surroundings. It’s just one long exposure shot with fairly small amounts of colour retouching and lots of cloning to remove some reflections. Just a couple of curves to bump the contrast in the sky. I’ve also used the Topaz Adjust plug-in to increase the details in the buildings.

UPDATE: Following David’s tip, I have now straightened the Burj using the Perspective tool.

Shot with NIKON D300S | 12mm | ƒ/5

This post belongs to:
Dubai, Middle East, United Arab Emirates

Roll-over the photo
to see the original Photography workshop - Night photography
  • http://exposure.laszlo.se Laszlo

    Beautiful shot. Very well done!

  • http://www.escapism-online.com Jason

    Fantastic shot! I’m sure the first from this vantage point. I think this is my favorite Dubai city shot ever. The colour of the sky is stunning… :)

  • Prateek

    Hey! Amazing shot! I don’t have enough words to compliment your talent.

    Just a question: Is this a HDR? How do u know when u wana make a subject in HDR?

    I love your work. Wud luv to see more of this world thru your eyes.
    -Prateek

  • http://www.momentaryawe.com Catalin

    Prateek, thanks! This particular shot is not an HDR shot. The photograph is taken through glass so there were quite a few reflections which would not have worked with HDR. It’s simple a long exposure shot (about 3 seconds).

    As for how do you know when to use HDR, it’s really a matter of personal preference, but I use when there is too big of a difference between the light and dark areas in the shot. That way I can even out the light.

  • http://infinite-cafe.com/ woody

    Wow… this shot is very beautiful. Hope I will visit Dubai one day. Seems like a very attractive city.

  • http://www.momentaryawe.com Catalin

    Woody, thanks! You should make your way to Dubai as it’s a very interesting place!