Forest Clearing

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

I was fascinated by the plastic forms of the roots covered in moss to the right in the frame. Also, I was struck by their relationships to the delicate texture of the ferns in the lighting and to the decaying tree trunk to the left.

Specific Feedback

Any feedback is welcome, but comments on the processing of tonal values are especially welcome.

Technical Details

Camera: Nikon D850
Lens: Sigma 85 mm
Capture: 0,8 sec. at f10, ISO 80


Critique Template

Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.

  • Vision and Purpose:
  • Conceptual:
  • Emotional Impact and Mood:
  • Composition:
  • Balance and Visual Weight:
  • Depth and Dimension:
  • Color:
  • Lighting:
  • Processing:
  • Technical:

Hi Leo, I like how you have handled this image a lot. The moss covered roots, the conversation between the trees and the gently back-lit foliage set a lovely atmosphere that you have rendered really well in b&w. Well seen and processed.

Leo, the tonal proceessing looks good and is very interesting. The roots on the right make it feel like that tree is about to walk away which contrasts well with the static nature of the snag. Your overall treatment does a good job of holding interest throughout the scene. I do wonder if toning down the brightest parts along the left edge would push more interest to the snag.

I find the flow of this unique, the way the foreground tree leads to the one on the left. Interestingly, I find the background a bit disorienting. If I let my eyes go soft the area between the two trees almost looks like lichen covered stone.

I think the tones are fine, but they do create a dark mood to the image for me. I do wish it was posted larger to enjoy the details more.

I love the composition and the tone on your Image !!!

I like this. It almost has a yin-yang quality to it with half the image being light and the other dark.

I feel like a little forest gnome is going to pop out from behind one of these trees any moment now. Lovely image, and the black and white treatment works well here. I especially like the higher contrast that places all the emphasis firmly on the spotlit trunk but even the dark areas have just enough detail that my eye can still explore them. Nicely done.

Thanks Guy, I appreciate your comment.

Thanks Mark. You may be right about the left edge — I’ll look into it.

Thank you for your comment, John.

Thanks, Gill!

Thanks, Tom!

Thank you for your comment, Bret. I appreciate it.