Muddy Waters

Muddy Waters, originally uploaded by margotwood.

Geysers and mudpots are one of the main attractions in Yellowstone National Park. While driving, we randomly stumbled upon a series of steam vents and other geothermal creations like this mudpot. The place was so incredibly stinky that I almost threw up a few times and really didn't want to take any pictures. I wanted to go back to the car - back to fresh air.

Yet, my parents dragged me along with them and I eventually got used to the stench. Of all the things to look at, this mudpot and other steam vent called the "Dragon's Mouth" were the ones I will most remember. This one mostly because of the amazing cracked surface and the boiling mud. This mudpot was ripe for the photographic picking.

Post Process: Slight cross process, increased unsharpened mask, increased contrast, vignetting.