This photograph is reflective in several ways, and it also calls to mind memories of a beautiful evening in Yosemite Valley. It was captured during a fall sunset from the "Swinging Bridge" over the Merced River. Instead of photographing the spectacular Yosemite Falls, which are just above this frame, I decided to feature the small tree on the left of the centre and all the surrounding reflections. The low and warm light was brilliant, creating specular highlights that made the photograph difficult to capture. The key to getting the correct exposure was using matrix metering, aperture priority, and adjustments, along with a close evaluation of the histogram.

When there, the first thing you may notice about the "Swinging Bridge" is that it does not swing. Multiple years of high flood waters took its toll on the previous swinging suspension bridge until it was finally replaced with a permanently fixed bridge after being damaged in the huge 1964 flood. When people are walking on the bridge, instead of swinging, it vibrates, which will require patience and a wait to eliminate motion in your photograph.

You can experience a view like none other while standing on the Swinging Bridge. You can see Yosemite Falls and its reflection in the Merced River during the day or by the full moon at night.

Picnic tables and grills are conveniently located at this scenic spot along the Merced River.