I used a something-or-other filter on my camera for this (think it's a neutral density filter). When I first put it on, I thought I had left the lens cap on. I could see nothing. Then I pointed my camera toward the sun and saw this dead branch and all these smokey colors.

1/50 sec, f/8, 140 mm, ISO 400
Canon EOS 5D Mark II

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• Amy, very interesting image. I think Scott Kelby should include the "something-or-other" filter in his holiday gift guide.
  Clinton Ferrara @ 2009-12-15 22:46:25
• A superb atmosphere you have created in this one!
  Claus Petersen @ 2009-12-15 22:57:05
• Good technical term, "something-or-other filter"- whatever it is, you made the picture look great! I like the smoky quality to the background.
  Cindy @ 2009-12-16 02:10:29
• Hmmmm. Not sure. Alien-like feeling. But very cool branch shape.
  Lee @ 2009-12-16 10:58:51
• Beautiful shot, nice tones!
  miksuli @ 2009-12-19 00:33:38
• Gorgeous image, Amy! I am rarely moved by images of nature, but this one just blew me away.
  
  I saw your comment on Scott Kelby's blog and would love to take you up on that offer. Let me know if I can be of assistance, too. :)
  Amy Dunn @ 2009-12-21 00:42:49
• wow! incredible tones...glad you 'happened upon' this image, really great effect.
  amy b. @ 2010-01-13 17:30:47