Where did Python Pool go?

Python Pool was running! Where did it go?

Groan. That's a dad joke.

We visited Python pool after rain to finally, after 4 years see the waterfall. It did not fail to impress. In my opinion it should be running more often!

Python pool is an interesting beast. It's a great swimming hole, but only for a few weeks after rain. After than it gets green and scungy. But I saw a different side to Python pool today. The brown side! But at least the water was fresh.

Last time I went to take photos here, I was attacked by horse flies and was taking anit-histamines for a week.

This time, while trying to compose a different shot, I was attacked by meat ants. But I had to take the shot from right on top of their nests - all I had was thongs. So, I would run up, take a few shots, then run back into the water to kill the suckers that had latched on. This happened several times.

The other cool thing about this visit is that we ran into an old friend we hadn't seen since about a month after we arrived in town who had moved to Port Hedland. Ahh, the Pilbara, the people you meet and then meet again!

The one above is six vertical shots stitched together into a panorama using a nifty fifty. I've got to tell you, the more I use that nifty fifty, the more I love it! It's taken a while, you definately have to get used to it, but it's so much fun.

Below is just a good close up of the waterfall.

Pilbara Gems: Python Pool Extended into Infiinity

A few weekends ago we ventured beyond the cliff face of Python Pool to the pools above. We were aided by the fact a bushfire went through recently, taking with it the spinafex, allowing us to walk relatively smoothly over red rocks. We climbed down, and the pools coupled with the view was spectacular!

Given that it was nearly midday - why is it always nearly midday!! - the photo opportunities were low. I attempted a HDR to expose the reflection in the pool as well as the view. It did not work out well - I didn't have enough exposures to make it worthwhile - so I had to content myself with editing one exposure in RAW by lightening the shadows and darkening the lights. The result is not great quality, it appears a little washed out, but hopefully it gives you a sense of being there.

The still water created a reflection that was pretty spectacular.

Infinity pool above Python Pool. Canon EOS 50D, f/4.5, 1/125, ISO 250, 22mm.

Pilbara Gems: Python Pool

The landscape of the Pilbara is vast and arid. There are continuous subtle changes for those driving for more than an hour that may go unnoticed to the unappreciative eye. For those willing, there are a number of small but precious gems scattered across the region.

Python Pool is one – situated in Millstream-Chichester National Park, it is a local haunt when it has had a flow. Sure, it’s not the grand canyon, it’s not even Karijini, but for a relatively short drive, it’s refreshing.

Not to mention the drive out there is spectacular. I am planning a trip out there soon – we have had a lot of rain and I can just imagine the wildflowers that will be gracing the roadside!
My last visit to Python Pool was in April this year. I am only showing you the photos now because I was about to format my card when I realised  I hadn’t backed these ones up yet. Always, always double check!

Python Pool. Canon EOS 50D (Betsy) f/3/5 1/400 ISO 200 +2 step exposure bias 18mm, shutter priority

Dragonfly Python Pool. Canon EOS 50D (Betsy) f/5.6 1/400 ISO 200 +2 step exposure bias 200mm, shutter priority

Dragonfly Python Pool. Sitting on my camera bag. Canon EOS 50D (Betsy) f/5.6 1/400 ISO 200 +2 step exposure bias 200mm, shutter priority