The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
This is a type of image that does not generate a lot of views, but that is OK as it has a story to tell. I found this little intimate scene while walking along the trail close to Ammonoosuc Falls in the White Mountains of NH. IMO, this depicts the cycle of life perfectly as this once stately tree continues to nourish the surrounding forest even after it’s passing. It was quiet and the air was still as I squatted in silence for a few moments as I paid my respects before taking a few images. I particularly liked the mosses as they encroached around what remained of the base of the tree.
Specific Feedback
Does the framing work for you? I did not want to leave to much along the top edge as I thought the BG trees might detract from the story I was trying to convey.
Technical Details
Nikon Z 7, Nikon 24-200 @ 55 mm, f 11 @ 0.4 sec, ISO 200, Kase magnetic CPL, cable release & tripod.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Oh funny…I just took a photo of a stump in the snow that is very similar. I like it. So evocative of a thriving forest. Glad to see the Whites are still doing ok. My home state, don’t you know…LOL. I love nurse logs for all the life they support and allow to get a foothold.
Framing looks good to me, but oh, I wish the background was more blurry. It runs into the stump with nearly the same level of sharpness and definition. The moss and lichen makes for a nice framing element. Nice of you to stop and admire.
This is beautiful, @Ed_Lowe. The greens are vibrant but not over the top, and there’s some nice, subtle tonality throughout the image. I like to think that I “see” scenes like this but honestly, I probably would have walked by and not thought twice about it. I’m glad you didn’t as it’s a lovely, quiet little photograph.
Hi @Ed_Lowe, You have shared with us a great portrait of the forest ecosystem, a great example of how critical every stage from seedling to stump is to it’s health and vibrancy. I agree with @Kris_Smith that drop focus could have helped you draw the viewers eye to the core of your message in an otherwise well seen and processed image.
Quite excellent! You have succeeded in portraying the message, the story; the framing, composition are spot on. The processing, colors, sat and all things technical are also perfectly presented.
This indeed is a wonderful nature story. My first impression of the stump and especially the fallen weathered log next to it, was that of a “nature’s lean-to”. the dark area of the stump could be interpreted as an entrance to the lean-to - with some imagination anyway. And this image does spark the imagination - at least for me; imagining the history, the life of all the elements displayed. The death, rebirth, etc. etc.
I have not suggestions for improvement. Beautifully seen, captured and processed. Kudos!
@Kris_Smith and @guy : I do have another image with slightly less DOF that I will work on. I should have thought to try a couple more at f 8 or 5.6; but sometimes the obvious escapes me. The Whites are definitely a beautiful area. My brother and I try to make the trip once a year.
Ed, this photo tells a fine story about life and death in a forest. The greens in particular look great and contrast well with the browns/whites of the stump. Were you so inclined, you might have shot a stack to get just the stump sharp, with the background trees all a bit soft. This does look good as presented, I especially like the cluster of baby trees on top of the stump.
I very much like and appreciate images that depict the cycle of life and this is no exception. Like @Bret_Edge, I am usually unaware of these types of images awaiting discovery so good of you to notice and frame up a beautiful image. I am loving the mossy greens encircling the stump and all of the detritus surrounding it. I think the framing works well, the light is enchanting, and the colors are all accurately represented here. You can see all of the little tiny trees in the background that are being fed by nutrients this old tree is giving off. They seem very happy and are thriving. I have nothing to help you with this image and love it as is. Nicely seen and captured, Ed!
Nice little intimate scene,Ed. I like the framing. I would not want to include anymore of the trees at the top. This tree has set up it’s own nice little ecosystem. Well done.
The Whites are definitely a beautiful area. My brother and I try to make the trip once a year.