The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
A couple of weeks ago when I was at one of our local ponds, I was playing with reflections in the water and ICM.Thus far, I haven’t gotten anything I really like from the reflected trees and shrubs, but the reeds seem to be more cooperative subjects.
Specific Feedback
I deliberately kept the tones and saturation pretty subdued in the first two, but the third reminded me of flames, so I went with more vibrant colors and higher contrast.
Any input or suggestions for different processing is appreciated.
Technical Details
All images taken with a Sony A1, FE 200-600 + 1.4 TC @ 840 mm, f/9, 1/8 sec, iso 500 under overcast skies.
Although all three are nice, I like no. 2 the best. I prefer the more defined reflection and what appears to be fog (is that pond fog or just out of focus reeds? ). Ranked 2, 3 (thought of flames right away), 1 (a bit too soft).
Thanks, @Jim_Gavin The stuff that looks like haze is just hazy reflections on the pond due to some ripples (I think). If there’s a ripple it will change the angle of reflection and can pick up a bit of sky.
Hi Dennis.
The third is my favorite. I think it benefits from the more vibrant colors and contrast. The subdued tones of the first two mean that it is difficult to find a way into them and my eyes read them as almost all the same. As i look more at the second it definitely has some interesting shapes in there, but I think would benefit from some more contrast to bring them out.
Nice set of images Dennis. They all gave me an impression of energy. The third one especially reminds of solar flares. I would encourage to try experimenting with the dehaze slider to add more contrast.
Dennis, I like #1 because of the subtle colors and the smoothness of the “flow”. Having most of the action on the left creates a sense of flow that wouldn’t be there if the colors completely crossed the frame. #3 does “feel” like flames, but I’d sure like to see the tops of the flames (the way I do in my fireplace…).
Nice set of ICM’s. I think each has their own character. The last one is really striking and other than playing more with the hues, I do see the resemblance to flames. I especially like the color contrast with the darker green background.
One of the fun and great things about ICM’s, does come in post. I know you kept the first two a little subdued in color/saturation intentionally, which resulted in, obviously, a more subdued presentation. Or for me, less engaging… I like the patterns, flow and variation in color, so I thought why not? Here’s a much less subdued interpretation. I also rotated to give a similar orientation and flow as the 3rd. I just played with the color/sat sliders, contrast, texture/clarity/dehaze… the possibilites are seemingly unlimited. I’m not sure if this is better or fits your vision, but certainly explores the possibilities:
