You certainly did capture that impossibly unreal light of the magic hour.. only in this case it was probably only for a minute or two. This is that time when we all yearn to be at the right place to capture that elusive magic. The center reflection reminds me of a fish.
A breathtaking image of a volcanic lake streaked in symbolic fire. We shot this amazing moment in light and time side by side, and we used spatial relationship each in a different way to express separate moods and feeling. Your framing uses the tree branch with "open jaws" to nearly embrace the flow of fiery reflection, creating an image rich in tension as well as striking color. In my own version, athttp://www.pbase.com/pnd1/image/103633074 , I also use the same tree as a framing device, but I chose to push it further to the right, opening up the flow of reflected fire, creating less tension, and adding a sense of serenity to the scene. It is amazing that a simple shift in frame and positioning can so completely change the meaning and mood of an image. The bottom line for us was the same, however. As you noted in your comment on my image, your "heart leaps with joy at the beauty were surrounded by." I agree wholeheartedly (pun intended, as usual.)
