Sometimes flying west, we’re lucky enough to get a clear day, when it’s possible to see the ground between Chicago and Seattle. This day (April 7) was beautiful, with puffy clouds casting their shadows on the still-brown plains.
Later, other-worldly whorls of mountains and clouds came into view. I feel strange looking at something at once so dynamic and so still.
Usually we make this trip later in the day. Often it’s overcast, or night is falling. This time, however, the sun was shining throughout the flight, and it was just 3 p.m. when we reached Seattle. The views on our descent were dazzling.
Photographing through an airplane window affects the tonality unpredictably. The sun striking the window creates a bluish haze, which can be made more prominent during post-processing. Not every view must be realistic to be true. I like these flamboyant colors and their subtlety. Plus, let’s face it, the window was dirty. The picture looks decades old already.
Looking at a mountain can be very calming.
Clear-cutting was visible during our approach, bringing the mudslide at Oso to mind. Rescue teams are still looking for bodies.
At the end of the flight, we glided down above the peaceful waters of the Sea and the Sound.
harley says
Say, those are some mighty fine photographs ! You did a splendid job especially since the pictures were taken from an airplane. Your captions are very descriptive and concise. Though sad to see the clear cutting, indeed how totally lumbered those areas were.
Celia says
The scale of it must be quite large to be seen so clearly from so high up. Thanks, Harley–glad you enjoyed the photos. CHC