I was beginning to wonder if anyone would spot the paragliders! You're right that they are lost a little. The photo looks better at full screen or in print, but at "web-size" resolution a lot of the impact is lost. I took many photos that day so I have plenty others of Mt Blanc alone. As to the "white-wash," I see what you mean. I really struggle with RAW manipulation - getting the right contrast, white balance and exposure - but I seem to be getting better with practise. Thanks for your comment, Hugo. I really appreciate it.
Hi Paul, I had to look pretty closely to see what you were getting at with the title. It's a very sublte touch, those two tiny orange skins... Weird, though, as before I spotted the tow paragliders, it was the Mt. Blanc that absorbed all my attention. I was about to comment that I find the contrast a little low, and the image maybe a bit too bright (creating the feel of a whitish wash over the photo) but that all changed when the orange skins became apparent. I think it does change the photo to some affect, but placing so much importance on the paragliders might be a bit too much. they might be even considered to be distracting from the view, if you see what I mean.
The time of day is spot on, though, creating a beautiful tonal range and quite awesome details in the glacier and the snow covered mountain. Very good alpine photography showcase.