Visceral Response

This is an image of Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River.  The first characteristic I noticed within this image is the horizon line. The horizon line separates the red rock from the cloudy blue sky. The cloudy sky is somewhat of a negative space because the eye immediately moves to the river and the island.  The spectrum of color in the sky is what creates the benefit of using a stormy sky versus a clear blue sky. The time of day this photo was taken adds shadow which influences the perceived depth of the canyon.  The blue water correlates with the blue sky and the rust color of the iron in the rock creates beautiful contrast which signifies the beauty of  Utah itself. The island creates a centerpiece for the image that allows for the circle shape of the river even though the river continues on.  If someone had never seen this image they might assume this is a lake or a pond because the on first appearance the viewer does not see where the river enters and exits. Also, the smooth texture of the river may lead a first time viewer that this is a lake. Also, the cloudy sky complements the ruggedness of the canyon landscape by having a similarly rough texture. Overall, this is a great image that was captured at a precise moment in time that creates these specific characteristics never to be seen again.