Congratulations to Ira Estin, Yosemite Close Up Tours’ Chief Guide, for winning 2nd Place in the “Landscape” category of World Wildlife Fund’s 2013 photography contest! The photo, “Foggy Valley View,” was taken at Valley View near lower end of Yosemite Valley, one of the most photographic locations in the park and a place where photographers come all the time.

Ira describes the conditions under which the photograph was taken: “This photo was a very magical event with just the right conditions and the right timing. I saw clouds in the sky as sunset approached and set up my tripod in anticipation of something good. As it was a warmish fall day, the air had lots of moisture in it, but when the sun left the valley floor and the air cooled, the dew began to form as a heavy fog as the full moon rose above the valley cliffs. These conditions, combined with the sun shining on the top of
El Cap, made for a very mysterious and wonderful photo.”

Visit our gallery pages on this web site for a look at more of our fine photos. They are all available or purchase. The “Foggy Valley View” shot is available in 8” x 10”, 11” x14”, and 13” x 18” sizes for $45, $75, and $95, unmatted.

With the beginning of the winter season and the fewer number of park visitors and the road closures due to snow, our normal summer season tours are difficult to continue. However, Custom Tours, perhaps with photographic emphasis, can make sense if visitors are willing to drive their own vehicles with our guidance, so that you gain maximum enjoyment and information about Yosemite’s human and natural history as well as the best photographic opportunities during the low-light days of late autumn and winter. Please call (800-789-1854) or email (info@yosemitecloseup.com) us if you are interested in a Custom Tour.