The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
I was drawn to this scene by the tree trunks veiled by these newly bare branches. I liked the chaos and the veil they created.
Specific Feedback
I’m curious to hear what others think about this image. I’d describe it as work in progress, this is an initial edit and I suspect I’ll want to do more to it. It’s difficult to know whether this works!
Technical Details
GFX 50S II
Adapted mamiya 150mm
ISO 100
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
The contrast of the photo as presented is low. A boost in mid tone contrast could help separate the trunks from the veiling branches. Also a possibility is to select the trunks based on the green color there and accentuate the difference by perhaps boosting the saturation and vibrancy of the trunks to create separation. Just some thoughts.
Dom, it works for me. It’s chaotic in a pleasant way.
As Youssef said, the contrast is low, which is to be expected with a shot containing so much fine detail. The light and dark tones tend to meld into gray. I think Youssef’s suggestion of a boost in midtone contrast is a good one.
On the left side you have a few branches that seem a little too bright and tend to take my eyes out of the frame. That’s particularly true in the upper left-hand corner. I suggest lowering those highlights some.
This works for me as well. I find the intricacy and patterns in the fine branches very appealing, especially as they cover the entire scene. Seems like it has great potential in several directions, depending on your aim. Would probably be excellent in black & white too.
Thanks @Youssef_Ismail , @Don_Peters and @John_Carroll for your feedback. I totally agree that it needed more contrast - I had been trying to remove some of the saturation from some colours and in hindsight see that I’d robbed it of any depth in the process. I’ve posted a revised edit below - I think some more work is needed to tune things a little further but I’d be interested to know whether you think this is an improvement? Thanks again for the feedback.
@DomMcKenzie In the original post you said you were drawn to the chaos of the scene. To me, the current version brings that out quite well. The intricate layers are fascinating. The nearest tangle of fine branches/twigs dominates the scene, but behind that there are deeper layers of other interwoven fine twigs and branches and the overall effect, at least to me, is beautiful. The longer I look at it, the more interesting patterns emerge.
I always like abstracts and this maze of the assorted branches make for a wonderful view of how nature can paint a very interesting canvas. The more subdued color in your edited version accentuates this as others have suggested. I actually like both versions but I think my favorite is your edit. Really interesting photograph.
Hi Dom,
I am late to the show , but I just have to say that you nailed it with the repost. The slight increase in contrast was just the ticket to elevate an already beautiful image another notch. This has lots for the eye to wander around and savor. Controlled chaos at it’s finest!
Thanks Ed! Yes, as ever posting it here helped it just needed a little more contrast. It’s very tricky image to edit, a little goes a long way and in trying to make it balance I’d removed too much of the saturation that helps draw you in. I’m looking forward to making a print of this. And I’m delighted with the Editors Pick.
