Sunset from Vermont

Hi, first submission, but don't hold back. My first real post processed RAW as well.
I was setup with a wide angle as the sun was setting, clouds looked like it might just get nice. But as the sun got to within a degree or two from the mountains the color drained from the sky and was limited to this small area around the sun, which was being nicely filtered. So I slapped on the 70-200mm f/2.8 L with a 2x extender and maxed out the zoom.

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Amazingly, exquisitely beautiful... very "zen-like"

I am reminded of the patch on Karate Kid's uniform. Very nice shot.

I like this one better than the other - wonderful colors! Getting the sun in there beautifully.

The only thing that troubles me (and it might just be me) is the OOF tree(s) on the right hand side of the frame. Perhaps try a healing brush to get rid of it, or crop the photo and see how that looks to you. Bump the contrast up just a tiny bit.

Never thought about this particular situation as a candidate for HDR, but I can't wait until you put it on a tripod and do a 3 shot bracket and do a Merge to HDR. That ought to give you an even more stunning picture.

Great shot - congratulations!

Still not seeing anything here!

Seems I am having trouble, but one more try. If there is a picture attached is it same better or worse?

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Success - I see a picture. I didn't see anything that wrong with the first one - so I will decline comment.

Well I liked it with and without the trees...maybe the one without a heartbeat more than the with. Great shot whatever you do to it....send more pics!

I'd say you nailed it! Awesome.

I like the first one more, the tree seems to give it more character as in the second one, im almost bored. your first shot is amazing, looks like a old school japanese sun set, but your in VT! great work!

Welcome to the forum. Beautiful image and I like the first one best.

That's an absolutely terrific shot (the first one). And your first go at RAW processing too! I'm still coming to grips with RAW after several months. (You remind me of those kids back in school, who never studied and still got an A..just kidding!)