The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
This image was captured in April 2024 in Longwood Gardens, PA. Needless to say; with about two weeks to go; I am preparing a trip or two this year if the conditions are right. Last year the weather was perfect on our two visits; overcast skies with an off and on again light drizzle. I decided to go with a pano crop to get rid of some distracting elements lower in the scene. I particularly liked the fact that the two cherry trees were arching inward towards one another.
Specific Feedback
Does the pano format work for you? Is the partial tree in the ULC a distraction? I really could not crop any more from the left side as I felt I would be getting to close to the cherry tree. Anything else you notice please feel free to mention it.
Technical Details
Nikon Z 7, Nikon 24-200 @ 200 mm, f 11 @ 1/30 sec, ISO 400, Kase magnetic filter, cable release & tripod. Three image stack for depth of field.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Hi @Ed_Lowe, Quite a lovely “blizzard” you have shared with us. I think the general effect of the cherry blossoms is really superb. There are several openings in the blooms that show dark trunks and branches in the background that are a bit distracting to my eye, perhaps darkening them down would make them less obtrusive. But generally the image works well for me and provides a necessary lift as stick season winds down and we all crave a beauty hit.
I too enjoy the way you captured the arching trunks, they give just enough texture to really add to the “blizzard.” This is best viewed large; the whites open up more and the image looks more alive. No real nits from me; I’m enjoying this as posted.
Do I think the pano works? Yes, it works very well. It’s subtle, but I can see that both sets of trees are leaning in, which keeps the viewer in the frame, and engaged. I also see an alternative crop that includes just the left half of the frame. The tree structure on the left I think, is strong enough to hold that alternate crop. And still plenty of blossoms!
The ULC is not a distraction for me. In fact, I hadn’t given that a thought until you mentioned it.
Getting to see trees blooming like this in the spring is a treat. Quite a visual stimulant too. You’ve done a great job here creating order from chaos… Well done Ed!
I’m loving the composition you chosen for this one Ed. That is one mass of white flowers. Incredible. Reminds me of driving through the California central Valley in spring as all of the different nut trees blossom. Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans etc. You might consider dodging the tree trunks as they stand out almost too much. I do find that the ULC is a bit distracting and you may be able to help that by dodging those too. I do have to say that I also love this as posted and am looking for nits so take my suggestions with a grain of salt. I’m reaching here.
Cool shot and great title, Ed. There is a nice swirling motion in the image. The ULC doesn’t bother me. I do notice a vertical trunk in the BG though. I think the image could be a tad brighter. Don’t know if you could go any furtherwithout clipping.
Ed, it is a fine blizzard of blooms. In the larger view, the tree trunks with their mottled lichen play a better role in moving my eyes around the frame. The trunk in the ulc doesn’t both me. I do wonder if dodging the dark trunks in the lower right would further emphasize that long branch reaching across the frame from the left.
