Guardians of the Atlantic

by Frank Schröter Photography

Dark rock spires rise out of the sea against a rocky Atlantic coastline. Their jagged surfaces are illuminated from the side, standing out clearly against the clear blue sky. The water appears soft and flowing, whilst round black stones in the foreground form sharply defined shapes. The composition combines solid rock formations with the calm movement of the sea.

The largest rock peak stands to the left of centre and rises high above the flat horizon line. Smaller rocks follow to the right, drawing the eye back towards the coast. In the lower part of the image, round, dark stones lie close together. Their clear contours meet the soft water that surrounds the gaps between them and the base of the rocks.

The finished photograph was individually developed and retouched. The different surfaces are crucial to the visual impact: rough rock, smooth stones and water that appears to flow. The bright sky creates a sense of space above the steep forms and provides a cool contrast to the illuminated rock edges. As a wall hanging, the landscape appears calm and open from a distance; on closer inspection, the small crevices and irregular structures become visible. The wide format gives the sea space whilst keeping the stony foreground within the frame. The original signature has been retained.