Vernal Pool, Rogue Valley, Oregon

Canon 30D, 17-40 f/4L, tripod: yes

Vernal pools are a unique habitat type that support rare plants and macro invertebrates.  In Oregon, these seasonally charged shallow wetland pools are found only in the Rogue Valley near Medford.  During summer months the pools are dry and not very impressive.  But, once charged by winter rains, the pools come to life with a variety of unique plants and the rare vernal pool fairy shrimp.  Several species found here are protected by the Endangered Species Act, including the fairy shrimp, so are carefully managed in hopes of preserving these rare plants and animals.

This photo of a vernal pool was converted to black and white using Lightroom.  The targeted adjustment tool (TAT) was used to adjust the B&W mixing sliders and tonal curve (a very cool tool that is available in several panels in the develop module).  I also applied a graduated ND filter to the sky, vignetted the corners slightly and locally sharpened with the masking tool.