The Valley of the Gods is often called mini Monument Valley. But I find it to be a much friendlier photography destination.
First of all, there are no tribal restrictions in the Valley of the Gods and you are free to explore it any way you want. Second, it is located on a public land, and it means you can choose the most scenic location and camp there, without any permits or fees. And finally, there is no crowds and no tourist buses. It is always empty.
Shooting
It was difficult to take a wide shot of the valley from the side of the road. I had to climb to a small hill and set up my tripod on top. The views in every direction were absolutely breathtaking.
- Camera: Sony s6000
- Lens: Sony 16-70mm
- Focal Length: 70mm
- Shooting Mode: Aperture Priority (A)
- ISO: 100
- Aperture: F/10
- Shutter Speed: 1/80s
- Tripod: FEISOL Tournament CT-3442
Editing & Processing
It was a simple and uncomplicated a single RAW processing workflow.
Lightroom (90%)
First, I used the Crop Overlay tool to improve the composition, making it a bit tighter but without changing the aspect ratio.
Next, I used the Natural preset from my Landscape Preset Collection as the base for Lightroom Rapid Editing. Then I used TOOLKIT to boost the Contrast and the Clarity.
The Lightroom Preset Editing Formula: Natural (9, 13, 16, 32)
Photoshop (10%)
First, I used the Stamp Tool to “erase” the camper van on the right side. Next, I boosted the details and reduced noise.
Plugins: DeNoise (noise reduction), Topaz Detail (local contrast boost).
Total Time: 10min
