This diner is part of a roadhouse I read about around two weeks ago, but didn't get a chance to shoot before I left on vacation. But for once, the Challenge Gods were in my favor: upon my return, the Diner challenge was announced, and I had the perfect subject. This roadhouse has been used in several movies, and is available for filming, although no longer open for business.
I drove 150 miles (round trip - gyaban, my renewed appreciation for your extreme dedication...). The 6 lane highway became a 4 lane highway, then a two lane road with small town businesses. Then the businesses went away. Then the houses went away. Then the pavement went away. But I kept driving. Then suddenly there was this roadhouse, in the middle of absolutely nowhere, at the intersection of two dirt roads. There is also a motel component and a tiny gas station, plus about 7 old cars in the back. I had originally entered a more panoramic shot which included the gas station part, and an old Chevy pick-up, but decided this was more about the diner. I was worried I'd left too late to get sunset lighting, so I was rushing a bit, even though I had to pee like crazy. But I got there at just the right time. I only wish there had also been some clouds.
merged 3 exposures in Efex HDR
brightness/contrast
darkened sign in lower right
darkened a couple of sun flare spots
layers for painting, d&b
save for web
Can't BELIEVE Allen (nightpixels) ribboned with a shot of this very same place!!! I almost entered a very similar shot to his, but the Cloud Gods were definitely favoring him :-)
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I didn't even realize this was the same place as the other entry! What a difference the perspective made. Well earned high placement! I can't believe how far you drove for it!
I like both shots of this place that have been entered into this challenge! I like how the sun burst frames the left of this image highlighting the contrast of the shadow filled right. I dig the slimy greens & the way the florescent bulbs highlight that tone. Feels very 'Natural Born Killers' (the snake juice scene to be specific) to me...
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