The Dolomites which were recently included in the UNESCO World Heritage site, are renowned for their unique limestone formations and vibrant natural beauty. The Three Peaks of Lavaredo commonly known as Tri Cime di Lavaredo, stand as the crown jewels of this mountainous region, embodying the grandeur and ruggedness that the Dolomites are famous for. Andrea Sagui's photograph, "The mountains of fire," masterfully captures the awe-inspiring beauty and dramatic essence of the Three Peaks of Lavaredo.
The three peaks Cima Grande, Cima Piccola, and Cima Ovest are not just some mountain or peaks of the famed Dolomites, they're celebrated as some of the most recognizable and photographed mountains in the world. The peaks' striking obelisk shapes dominate the landscape, rising sharply from the ground creating a natural fortress that has given thrill to adventurers, climbers, and photographers across the world.
The peaks have been the subject of countless works of art along with being the locations for films such as The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles and Solo: A Star Wars Story, both films based on George Lucas' characters. His photograph is made possible due to his keen eye for natural phenomena. The image shows the skills required for him to successfully take the image during a moment when a fast-moving cloud enveloped the peaks, creating a surreal scene where the rocks appeared to be engulfed in flames. Sagui's decision to use a filter and extend the exposure time adds a unique quality to the image, where the clouds are altered into fiery trails that seem to be licking the edges of the peaks.
This masterpiece that has experienced a long natural life has shown us the extent of what nature can bring to the landscape if left alone naturally without the need to destroy or alter. The warm, glowing hues against the stark, cold stone create a mesmerizing contrast, making the photograph a stunning tribute to the timeless and untamed beauty of the Dolomites. Sagui's work captures not just a moment in time, but the very nature of these majestic mountains.
Entry Title: The mountains of fire
Photographer: Andrea Sagui
Winning Category: New York Photography - Landscape
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