Big Sur
Big Sur on the central California coast south of Carmel has been a Mecca for photographers for the past hundred years including Edward Weston. The Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific to form one to the most rugged coast lines along the California shore. There is something magical about the area.
This sunset highlights a complexity of cloud formations to from a backdrop to the massive silhouetted rock formations. The sun is on the cusp of leaving us to the night. I am particularly attracted to the satin like qualities of the wet sand and its undulating patterns. The silhouetted rocks give depth to the scene and frame the departing light of life.
Another possibility for this image would be to crop to a square format thus placing the sun on the center line and changing the large rock formations to what could be a land mass; funneling our attention through the channel made by the silhouettes. I am not saying this format is better just another concept.
Click on Image 
Cropped 
March 30th, 2008 at 7:17 am
Very nice effect. I prefer the original photograph (wide view). Can you share with me your exposure when taking
the flash, and did you utilize a tripod?
December 22nd, 2008 at 10:23 am
Hi Stuart
I just saw this. Sorry it is late in answering. I used a high ISO hand held, since I did not have a tri pod with me.
Canon EOS-1D MARK II
70-200 f/2.8
1000s at f/2.8 (not to grainy for 1000s.}
Best wishes for a wonderful Holiday!