On the way to work the other week, I was driving down the F3 freeway when a beautiful sunrise started forming with these stunning streaky clouds coming straight from the direction of sunrise.
I was fortunate enough to have my camera and tripod with me on this day (I normally don’t!) so pulled over at the Hawkesbury River bridge to capture these shots. It was still dark and the stars of Scorpius can be seen too.
3 minutes later, back in the car and on the way to work again.
Hawkesbury River Sunrise. Purchase this print.
I captured a horizontal composite and a vertical composite – which is your favourite?
Hawkesbury River Sunrise. Purchase this Print.
Captured with a 5D Mk 2, 17-40mm lens, ISO800, 8s exposure, f/7.1. Thanks for looking!
Hawkesbury River Sunrise (Vertical) 
Hawkesbury River Sunrise 
Layers 
Mitchell Falls Vertical A 
Mitchell Falls Vertical B
I like the vertical shot better. It includes some foreground making it a more complete depiction of the environment of the image, helping me feel more immediately included in the scene. The foreground also introduces an appealing and contrasting texture which I think makes the whole image more interesting.
Another thing the vertical shot has going on: the pink clouds converging into the sunrise make it more dramatic and I guess that appeals to me. In contrast, the horizontal shot is “quieter”.
I think you’re right, Bill. I prefer the vertical version too.
Thanks for commenting!