The photographer has shared comprehensive information about their intent and creative vision for this image. Please examine the details and offer feedback on how they can most effectively realize their vision.
Self Critique
We visit this area each summer and I always photograph the two small trees at the top of the bluff. I like the sky and the textures of the bluff along with the diagonal of the area with the columbines.
Creative direction
No particular message or style in mind. I would be interested in opinions as to any sort of emotional impression.
Specific Feedback
Aesthetic and technical with a question about emotional impact.
Technical Details
Canon R5 Mark II, RF 100-500 @ 100mm, f/8 @ 1/1000, ISO 800. Processed in Dx0 PL8 and Photoshop CC. Masking in ACR.
Description
I have numerous versions of the two small evergreens on the top of the bluff. This particular scene attracted me primarily because of the thousands of Columbine flowers at the base. The sky was interesting here as well. I wonder if I should do more dodging/burning on the face of the bluff.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Fred, I think this works well, as is. Given the cloudy day, the light is soft, so any greater contrast in the cliff may take away from that. You could play around a bit some with dodge or burn of the cliff just for a look-see.
I really like the clouds, and the Columbine show up nicely.
Perhaps it’s just me, but it looks like there is a slight sharpening halo along the edge of the cliff where it meets the sky. One minor nit: There is a bit of an old snag poking up about midway between the two trees and right edge of the frame. Your choice whether or not to clone it out.
This is a nice image and well worth the effort!
-P
This is nice, Fred with one small nit in a second. Processing is always subjective and depends on whatever the goals of the OP. I think it looks just fine as is. Now thew nit. I agree with @Preston_Birdwell . I definitely see a halo along the cliff edge. Shouldn’t be too hard to fix.
Thank you for the encouragement. I appreciate your help very much. The halo was from masking rather than sharpening. I think I have it taken care of. A new version is attached.
This is a striking image Fred, particularly the two small trees clinging-on at the top of the cliff.
The foreground rocks and flowers leads the eye nicely to the base of the cliff and then you are taken up to the top with the trees and the fabulous sky.
It has a certain grandeur
Hi Fred,
This turned out quite nicely. The clouds are absolutely wonderful and add some drama to this landscape. I think the soft flat lighting was to your benefit and showcases some lovely textures and details in that imposing cliff face as well as those columbine nestled in it’s base. Another great element in this scene is those two trees perched on the edge of the cliff. I only have two small suggestions. If this were mine I would remove that lighter toned rock in the LRC as well as the small bit of tree intruding along the right edge on top of the cliff. For my tastes the cliff face looks just fine, but you could always play around with it and see if you like something better. I hope you post some other versions of this image as well.
