Stronghold in Flames

The immediate impact of this image is stunning contrasts. Bright red light amidst the black peaks and darkened sky. The result gives justice to the title. The impression of a great mountainous fortress beset by fire is very easy to visualize. There is little of the red light reflecting off the clouds, which is a bonus as this would otherwise detract from the impact of the red mountains themselves.

The outlines of the mountain peaks are clear and sharp, even in the distance, and despite the darkness. Too many backgrounds lose clarity in the lines and shapes. This does not happen here. The image is further enhanced by the steam boiling up in the foreground, further giving weight to the impression of a fiery fortress, without the steam rising too high to detract from the overall clarity of the image.

All aspects of this image are first class. The eye is drawn to the red glow, the sharp contrasts between some rock faces deep red and others pitch black, while the background details can be taken in at the same time.

A vivid and dramatic result, excellently presented.