After dinner, and the rain, I headed out to the park to grab some sunset images. I managed to come home with a few keepers. As I was finishing up the dishes I noticed the clouds and some really funky light. I went out into the yard to see what I could do with some long exposures. I’ve always liked the way clouds streak in the sky when you leave the shutter open.

My first few attempts turned out OK for the clouds but the foreground was a little too dark. What the heck, might as well play around, digital images cost me nothing but my time. I popped the flash up (yes, I really need to buy a proper flash unit) and tried a few settings. I didn’t want to overpower the clouds so I dialed back on the flash power. A -2EV setting gave me what I wanted.

Not a bad attempt although there was just enough movement in the blossoms to cause a little ghosting. I think it works OK considering the movement in the clouds. I would have stayed out longer but the darn mosquitoes were eating me up!

Closing for the Night
Nikon D5100, Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4, 30s, 17mm, -2EV flash, ISO 100