Stephanie Phillips
July 2026 - SUNRISE IN MONGOLIA
About the Image(s)
I captured this image at sunrise last September while in Mongolia. We were at the Khongor Sand Dunes in the Gobi Desert. I used my Sony A7r iv, and a Tamron 27-200 lens. I cropped out the sky and removed a few plants that I considered to be a distraction. Some of my best images are from the Mongolia trip, so you will see more in the future.
3 comments posted
This is a stunning image with beautiful light. I love the flow between dark and light the accentuates the dunes. My eyes are most often directed on the S curves along the perceived paths of the camels. I also see a ray of light across the the camels. Looks like a great place to take photos and I wish I had been standing next to you! Posted: 07/01/2026 12:53:22
(Groups 21 & 42 & 71)
The photograph succeeds because it tells a simple story while emphasizing the immense scale of the desert. The caravan provides just enough human presence to give the landscape context without overwhelming it.
The sweeping S-curves of the dunes are the dominant compositional element. They naturally guide the eye through the frame.
Placing the camel caravan on the upper third works well, giving the subjects room to "travel" into the frame.
Possibly leaving more space ahead of the caravan (to the right) could reinforce the feeling of a long journey. Hope you don't mind but I tried it.
The low-angle golden light beautifully defines the dune contours
Posted: 07/02/2026 12:21:00
The sweeping S-curves of the dunes are the dominant compositional element. They naturally guide the eye through the frame.
Placing the camel caravan on the upper third works well, giving the subjects room to "travel" into the frame.
Possibly leaving more space ahead of the caravan (to the right) could reinforce the feeling of a long journey. Hope you don't mind but I tried it.
The low-angle golden light beautifully defines the dune contours
Posted: 07/02/2026 12:21:00
What a fantastic photo! I agree with what Tom did to elongate the space in front of the caravan. Love the shadows and the smoothness of the image. A prize winning photo for sure! Posted: 07/02/2026 15:11:39