Critique Style Requested: In-depth
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
The lines and textured softness in the leaves and their scalped edges provide interesting shapes. I am not sure if there is a clear focal point.
Creative direction
The Angel Wings plant is challenging me to find ways to convey the mystical feeling I get when I study the shapes of the leaves and the play of light on their surface. I aim to express that feeling in the artistic possibilities available in post-processing.
Specific Feedback
My challenge is to explore the possibilities of macro photography while working with this plant as the subject. All areas --aesthetic, conceptual, emotional, and technical --interest me as I learn the art of macro photography.
Technical Details
Taken with Sony a7iv and a 2.8/90 lens on a tripod.
ISO 100, f/22 at 4 sec.
Processed in LR and PS using Topaz DeNoise (mainly to sharpen), TK9 luminosity filters to color balance, and selectively dodge and burn the leaves. Nik Silver Efex Pro 3 to finish the artistic look.
Description
The plant is growing in a pot in my entryway. It provides a ready subject as I learn how to use my macro lens. I am discovering how difficult it is to control the focus and think I surely could find an easier subject!
1 Like
This is really nice, Barbara. To me the “subject” is that leaf edge itself and I like how the veins of the leaf on the right seem to converge with it. The unmarked leaf on the left forms an interesting contrast to that on the right which adds some tension to the image for me. You might experiment with moving that left boundary in and out to see what feels best if you haven’t already done so, but this works well for my tastes.
Thanks, Dennis. I will see how I like moving the left boundary.
Very nice!! You could play for hours with a plant like that – both in photographing it and in processing! No ideas for improvement here. Looking forward to the next 20-30!
Barbara, is this plant called Angle Wings or Angel Wings? Whatever the right name, I think this a great subject for a project. I’ve been enjoying your series.
To help answer your question on the clear focal point, I think Dennis is right. The focal point that stands is that defined line on the left side. It has a nice wavy pattern and light to it. I’m hesitant to offer crop suggestions since I don’t want to steer away from your vision for the image but here is an alternative for you to consider. That defined edge reminded me of a ridge line on a mountain. In fact, with some imagination this could be perceived as a snowy mountain landscape image.
@Diane_Miller , you are so right. I have been playing, especially in post-processing. @Alfredo_Mora The plant is Angel Wings. Thanks for catching my spelling error. I like the crop you suggested. It gives a different feel to the image. That is what is so much fun with this plant.
