In the Mexican state of Morelos, there is an ancient temple complex that may date as far back as 200bc. This archeological site is known as Xochicalco or “the place of flowers,” and during 700-900ad it was populated by up to 20,000 inhabitants. The actual identity of the people who lived there is unknown, but they are believed to have been Mayan influenced. Although in its heyday, it was a bustling trade city, this place is now a tranquil park, more suited for meditation, and contemplation.
The day we went to Xochicalco was hot and humid, two things that this polar bear does not suffer well. As soon as we reached the temple complex, I was off and running, trying to make as many different images as possible before my sightseeing companions got bored and wanted to head home. Within ten minuets of working I was drenched in sweat. I really wish I had had more time to explore, as Xochicalco is truly magnificent. Although, it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, you basically have the run of the place and can climb the temples and explore the ancient ruins at will. I don’t know if in the hour I had to shoot, I was able to capture much, but I do know in the future I would love to return to another temple complex. In the end, I got scurried away by a grounds keeper that wouldn’t let me use my tripod, but was fascinated by what I was doing. He kept trying to to use my camera to take my photo for me. If my phone hadn’t started to ring, telling me to come back to the car, I’m sure I could have gotten a final shot with more than one of me standing on the top of the temple.
I used my Neutral Density filter for these images, and although I do love it, I am still learning how to make the best images. I have not yet decided such things as how I look in sun versus shadow, etc. After doing so much work at night, I can generally visualize exactly what will happen in any given circumstance, but in daylight I am often surprised. One of the things I don’t love about this filter is the color shift; it generally muddies and grays out colors. Thus, I decided to push them off the gamut. I like the results, but they are not set in stone.
