Denali, New Mexico and long lenses

I like the almost abstract nature of landscapes with long lenses. Here are two.

The first is from the rim of the Capulin volcano in NE New Mexico. It was made on a Canon 30D with a 300mm

The second is from Denali Park (the Polychrome Pass area). It was shot with a 135mm on a Canon D60.

Enjoy. Comments welcome.

I'm not too intrigued by the first shot, seems a bit boring to me...maybe try black and white? However, the second photo is great! You chose a great composition, and the river running though the scene makes for a great leading line. The low clouds here look great, and make for a nice mood!

I think that the first one is to washed out maybe a little more contrast would help. I really like the second one.

i really like the 2nd shot

The 1st is a very long lens (35mm equivalent about 465mm) on a hazy day. So lots of compression and little contrast. It's been called a "Martian landscape" by some other viewers who really liked it (to my surprise).

I'm an old 4x5 zone system type guy and have printed lots of b&w. But I don't care for digital b&w even thought I have seen some very good digital work. Since the image is basically monochromatic, I looked at it in b&w but didn't like it. I just prefer to start with a b&w neg and print in my darkroom. I guess I'm just stuck on the acetic acid smell and the faint orange glow.

Nice to see some telephoto shots. I think we too often look at the entire scene, but don't take the time to look for examples of good composition in the 'pieces'.

Oh I love that second shot.