The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
I think this fits the theme for this week with the dark storm clouds above and the rocks below framing the Athabasca Valley in Jasper NP. We were at the top of the Jasper Sky Tram last June when it decided to snow on us. This was just before it started to snow. Fortunately it didn’t snow too much before we got back on the gondola to go down the mountain.
Specific Feedback
Not sure about the crop, and the heavy presence of the rocks on the bottom that are so different from the rest of the image. Thanks for taking a look and for leaving your thoughts and suggestions.
Technical Details
Canon %DMiii, f9, 1/250s, iso 100, 24-105 lens at 58mm, 2 sec timer on bean bag.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Ed: Brings back fond memories for me. Love this POV and the atmospherics. The Canadian Rockies are hard to beat and this is making me want to go back. >=))>
This is an intriguing use of framing, Ed. The foreground rocks and the river in the distance stand out well, while the clouds add some interesting atmospherics.
Thank you @Bill_Fach. My wife and I have fallen in love with the Canadian Rockies. I don’t think there is a prettier area for the same space anywhere in the world. Of course, I haven’t been to a lot of other places like Patagonia or the Himalayas, so I may be out of line on that too.
Ed, your photo captures a breathtaking view with excellent use of light and shadow to create mood. With minor adjustments to foreground brightness and sky detail, it could be even more striking. Great work!
Strengths:
Dramatic Lighting: The interplay between the dark clouds above and the patches of sunlight on the valley below creates a dramatic and moody atmosphere.
Depth and Perspective: The inclusion of the rocky foreground gives a sense of scale and depth, drawing the viewer’s eye into the landscape.
Composition: The winding river and vibrant blue lakes act as natural leading lines, guiding the viewer’s attention through the scene.
Color Contrast: The rich greens, blues, and earthy browns contrast beautifully with the darker mountains and foreboding sky.
Areas for Improvement:
Foreground Brightness: The rocks in the foreground are slightly overexposed, detracting from the overall balance. Reducing their brightness might bring more focus to the valley and mountains.
Cloud Definition: The dark clouds dominate a large portion of the image. Enhancing the details and textures in the clouds could add more visual interest and balance.
Sharpness in the Distance: While the valley is beautifully lit, it appears slightly soft. Increasing sharpness in the mid-ground could bring out the details in the trees, rivers, and lakes.
Suggestions for Enhancement:
Consider adjusting the contrast and highlights to better define the clouds and foreground.
Boost the vibrancy slightly to make the greens and blues more pronounced without overpowering the natural feel.
Cropping the image slightly from the top might reduce the overwhelming dominance of the sky and bring more focus to the illuminated valley.
@Pieter_Opperman I can’t thank you enough for your valuable critique. Great suggestions and thought process behind them. Thank you. I will see if I can make some of the changes you’ve suggested here and repost it.
