The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
The Canyon Trail in Swallow Falls SP, MD is probably my favorite hike in the state. I believe it is 1.4 miles long and not a lot of elevation gain. It parallels Muddy Creek, the Youghiogheny River and winds it’s way through a canyon toward the last remaining stand of virgin hemlock and white pine trees in the state as well as affording views of three waterfalls. The trail can be busy at times, but there are pockets where you can get away from the crowds. This particular day was perfect as the light rain had stopped and the cloudy skies produced this nice soft diffused light. As I am typing here at the keyboard I am telling myself that I need to get back to this area in the next couple of weeks.
Specific Feedback
I was hoping to portray a sense of peace and solitude with this image. I hope that comes across. Does the bright area toward the ULC need any more toning down. Anything else you notice please feel free to mention it.
Technical Details
Nikon Z 7, Nikon 14-30 @ 28 mm, f 11 @ 1.6 sec, ISO 100, Kase magnetic CPL, cable release & tripod, four image stack for DOF.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
i can see why you would want to get back to hiking this area. The path looks so inviting with its lush green tones and meandering track. I love the shades of green in this image. and its lovely composition. Wish I was there right now!
Oooh how I love a trail shot - inviting and intriguing, it makes me want to step right into the frame. The lushness of the vegetation and the way the trail winds into the distance is so appealing. The big tree anchors well, but if you’re not opposed to erasing the leaner just to the left of it, that would harmonize things a tad. It was really there, I understand so it totally depends on your intention for the photo. With scenes like this, I often play with color hues/temperatures to get greater range and that might be worth checking out. No wonder this is a popular place.
Ed, a truly inviting look see at this wonderful trail. For us desert dwellers this is all too inviting on several levels. Coolness & greenery being the most inviting perspective from our normal treks…
I see no thoughts for changes in the processing whatsoever…
I like this very much. The tranquility is tangible. I like the bit of mystery where the trail seems to end at the stand of trees.
The yellows seem a tad bright to me, but that is personal preference, of course. The composition is spot-on. The ‘leaner’ on the left is a little distracting, but not a deal-breaker.
Yes Ed, I get a sense of peace and solitude. Beautiful shot. I’m definitely on board with removing the leaner on the left. I did a quick and dirty in PS and it improves the feel of the image a lot. The ULC looks fine to my eye. I would be a little more concerned about the brightness in the middle. I’m not a PS expert so don’t know how to tone that down without turning it gray.
Thanks everyone @Diny_Jones, @Kris_Smith, @Paul_Breitkreuz, @Preston_Birdwell and @Michael_Lowe for taking a moment to leave your thoughts on this image; always appreciated. Here is a rework with your suggestions. I do like the end result. I removed the leaning tree toward the ULC as well as darkening that section just a little. I also cloned in some leaves in a couple of select areas where the sky was peeping through toward the upper middle of the frame.
Thanks so much for the kind words @Lon_Overacker, @pat2 and @Ben_van_der_Sande; always appreciated. I am glad you guys enjoyed the image. It was a great little hike. @Ben_van_der_Sande : I am honored. I do like the haiku very much as it fits the scene perfectly.
Ed, you succeeded completely. This is a lovely, inviting scene, where the yellow greens speak of spring. They are complemented well by the brown trunk on the left and the winding path. Removing the leaner and disguising the sky are both good improvements.
I would not change anything with the light (varied in angling) in/ toward the end of the trail (not tunnel) .The photo composition offers a sense of intrigue , wonder, fascination, adventure guided into what might be beyond, while simultaneously allowing the viewer walk along, turning and pausing to note the variations of green and the steadiness of the brown trees trunks/ branches. What a beautiful , inspiring trail view and image.
