The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
I don’t like putting titles on abstract images because they can skew the viewer’s response, but you have to call them something.
Specific Feedback
This one prompts a reaction in me but I don’t know if it will grab anyone else. I’m mostly interested in overall reactions.
Technical Details
This is a three-shot multiple exposure with a single exposure of the same scene added in Photoshop. I could have done it all in the camera if I’d been in additive mode but I wasn’t. ISO 3200, 300mm, f/11, 1/320th.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Vision and Purpose:
Conceptual:
Emotional Impact and Mood:
Composition:
Balance and Visual Weight:
Depth and Dimension:
Color:
Lighting:
Processing:
Technical:
Hi Don,
I like the color palette of this one. I’m not quite sure what I’m looking at or why multiple exposures were necessary for this. Of course, I don’t know what the original scene/subject looked like. I’m hoping you’ll reveal at some point the rationale behind the method.
When I looked at the full size image, there were some blurred, melted looking places in the image, which I’m assuming were intended as part of the preserved concept? If not, I can show you where those stood out to me.
As a general impression, it’s got nice textures and colors, but not quite as intriguing as some of your other abstracts.
Marylynne, thanks for the thoughtful critique. I think that I was fond of this one for reasons peculiar to me and that it doesn’t make the cut.
As for the rationale behind the method, there wasn’t much of one. I’ve found that I like the way rocks combine in a multiple exposure. If I see an array of rocks with lines or shapes I like, and if I don’t think the details matter, I’ll try a multiple exposure.
I find this a very interesting take on a rocky surface – it feels like it is under water or maybe thin ice. That gives it a dimensionality that keeps me exploring. The colors and shapes are very pleasant, as are the rugged textures. The “overlay” also evokes clouds – maybe more than water. And there is a feeling of the subject receding toward the UL.
You’re making me want to try some multiple exposures…
Multiple exposures are a good technique to have in the toolkit, Diane. The results can be somewhat similar to ICM, particularly if you take a shot witht 6-9 exposures, but I find multiple exposures somewhat easier to control.
I learned a lot about MEs from videos on Find Your Voice (https://fyv.art/), the site operated by Valda Bailey and Doug Chinnery. I took advantage of the free trial. Subscribing required a bigger expenditure than I could justify at the moment but there’s a lot to be learned there about abstract techniques.
Looks interesting! Thanks for the info! I’ve gotten very bored with straight photography, but will continue to chase birds – but without working too hard at it!
