Primordial Landscape @ Asilomar State Beach, California

Image Critiques Weekly Challenge
1

FGisin_NPN_1165_Weathered_Landscapes.jpg
FGisin_NPN_1165_Weathered_Landscapes.jpg1500×844 1.52 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

One of my two favorite Monterey Peninsula locations to photograph seascapes. [The other being Point Lobos State Natural Reserve just down the road a ways.]

I’ve been going to Asilomar on a regular basis since the spring of 1968. [My how time flies when you never get tired of repeatedly imersing yourself into an epic “sanctuary” location.]

Specific Feedback

I like complexity, which is not the same as chaos.

It’s not what I call a fireworks image. That is to say, an epic image that overwhelms my brain the instant I first see it, only to fade away as quickly as it entered.

It’s an image that I can spend time in. Lots of nooks and cranies to explore.

Does this image do the same for you?

Technical Details

Nikon Z7 + 14-30 mm Z zoom lens set to 30 mm.
A 3 second shutter speed to soften the surf.
Focus stacked set of images (can’t recall how many) using Helicon Focus.
Final polishing in Adobe Lightroom.

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:
2

Franz, I really like the way you’ve processed this to show the weathered look of this rocky shoreline. I like the inlet, and the lighting. I’m thinking a couple more steps to your left and a small turn to the right may give you a better angle at the inlet. I do like the way your shutter speed has really softened the surf. Great shot for this week’s challenge.

3

Ed;

Thanks for the positive feedback. Been going there regularly since 1968, and I’m pretty sure I haven’t found all the prime locations to plant a tripod along this strip of the Calfornia Coastline.

Cheers,
Franz