February Sunset

If someone told me this morning that I would photograph one of the most breathtaking sunsets today, I would probably have laughed at them!   It was one of those hectic days, and  the lack of caffiene in my system made it even worse. 

Upon returning home, I decided to play with Stretch in the backyard. Soon we were both so tired that we fell down onto the grass.  That's when I noticed a large cloud being illumenated by the setting sun. I rushed indoors to get my camera and within seconds I forgot all about the hectic day I had.  Soon mist and smaller clouds started rolling in, and before my eyes the trees 'caught fire'.

I only sharpened and cropped the following photo - just to give an idea of what the sunset looked like (also have to mention that I used a polarized filter): 

The majority of the photos to follow were edited in Corel Painshop Photo Pro X3.  Editing photos is my least favourite part of photography, although I have to admit it makes a big difference....

The following result was achieved by changing the contrast and brightness settings.  It's one my favourite photographs to date.

Using the kaleidoscope effect:

Now this is what I call a perfect end to a VERY LONG DAY!!!

"The rising sun
blesses my mind
with joy.

The setting sun
blesses my heart
with peace."  

Sri Chinmoy