Critique Style Requested: Standard
The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
An attempt to make an image like Don Saunderson
I am curious .
D810, F11, 1/5, iso 100, 70-200 at200mm
Hi Ben!
When I first saw this I was really intrigued. It is a very nice composition and I like your black and white tonal range. The layers of separation between objects is also very nice. I also like the higher key approach you took that almost gives it a pen and ink look. It is a very strong image.
When I look at it full size, a couple things stand out. It looks a bit “crunchy” - and I’m not sure whether that is artifacts from sharpening or some extra white highlights around the tips of the trees.
I notice some extra white highlights in the smaller tree to the left of the frame - also around the tips of needles. I’m not sure we would see those highlights so distinctly in that fog. But - if you increased the darks ever so slightly on that tree and create just a bit more separation between it and the background row - I think that would create even more depth and strengthen the composition. It would really need to be a subtle adjustment. With slightly darker “darks” - the whites might be ok as is.
Lastly, I encourage you to take a look at the work of Joel Truckenbrod. He is a Minnesota photographer that does exquisite b&w work. His website came down mid-last year. I don’t know if he gave up or is no longer with us. You can still find some of his images on Matt Payne’s website Joel Truckenbrod’s work
Again - beautiful image! Good luck.
Bill
Hi Ben, this image has a serene quality that’s reminiscent of a Japanese landscape, which is for me is very appealing. When viewed at full size – the texture is quite pronounced, or ‘crunchy’ as Bill described it.
I’ve made a few subtle edits myself. The background tree has a compelling shape that really contributes to the balance of your composition. By bringing it forward just a bit, I believe it enhances the overall image. I’ve also introduced a bit of grain, imitating the effect of a high ISO used in low-light photography. This technique can sometimes mask unavoidable noise, but in this case, it adds an artistic touch that suits your scene well.
The composition is thoughtful and well-executed, Ben. You have an excellent eye for this. Well done! 
Nice @Ben_van_der_Sande. I won’t repeat what the others said, except, the tonal ranges and detail on the main tree are very nice. The one thing that stands out to me, is how tight to the frame the trunk is. Considering the nice use of light and space on the left side of the frame, it seems like this needs a little more breathing space on the right. I know it’s always a tough call on how best to crop a tree. If there is more space, see what that does.
@Saundie , @Bill_Lathrop , @patrick6 ,In my entusiasum to try and imitate the B&W’s from @Saundie . I used a non suitable old color jpg image. I now discovered by your comments and advice. Therefore a big thank’s from me. And @Saundie for your rework and thoughts.
Ben if that tree is still there and you can get to it, it would be worth another visit! 
I think you captured a real nice image that has cool lines and a softness i really like. maybe a slight vignette to frame the image. very cool !!!
