The photographer has shared comprehensive information about their intent and creative vision for this image. Please examine the details and offer feedback on how they can most effectively realize their vision.
Self Critique
The challenge of decisions in composition, color choices, tones, etc. can be overwhelming at times, but that same challenge is a big part of what brings enjoyment for me. I’ve tried to hit a sweet spot between the blue/gold and dark/light contrasts here. I wanted an effect of light gently flowing through the scene, and hope that I’ve reached that.
Creative direction
I’m trying to be more open to “How does this feel?”, as apposed to “How does this look?”. This is an attempt in that direction.
Specific Feedback
Does this rest “easy on the eye,” and does it evoke any feelings for you?
Technical Details
NIKON Z 7II
NIKKOR Z 24-200 f/4-6.3 VR at 47.0 mm
1/125 sec. at f/10.0 and ISO 64
Three images manually blended for DOF
Description
This is another image from a backpacking trip on Mt. St. Helens last month. I was supposed to be up on Mt. Rainier this weekend with the same crew, but darned if the snow level didn’t climb to high; I hate snow camping in the rain, so I’m home sulking.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
This is yet another pleasant surprise to me John. I often get a pre-judged thought when looking at the initial image in a post and it is not until I click once on the image, then once more do I really get to appreciate what has been presented. The blue tones in the shadows and warm highlights complement and help to create a warm soft feeling for me. I think of a soft pilled cotton blanket. I am a bit torn about wanting less or more of the shapes at the top of the image? Maybe mysterious is another feeling that comes to mind with this image? Well done! I don’t have any technical feedback, looks fantastic to me!
Hello, texture! Your composition is about as close to perfect as it could be. The way the ribbon of sunlit snow leads the eye to the background, not allowed to stray due to the dark, less textured shadows, is so darn good. You controlled those highlights perfects, @John_Williams. I’m just guessing that the lighting was dynamic and you’ve masterfully recorded it here. Excellent work!
Hi John,
I love the interplay of light and shadow as it snakes it’s way through this scene. The textures and details in the softly lit areas of snow is nothing short of amazing. Bummer about the trip to Mt. Rainer, but I can not imagine that getting wet while snow camping is any fun at all. Beautifully done.
Oh man – this dances!! All said above so I’ll save typing it again. This is definitely a twofer, as I see a compelling image in the top half, or more like 40%. I love the way the shapes go off into the distance, That part could be sand dunes.
This is both fascinating and quite beautiful. It’s very intriguing as well - and I’ll try and explain my impression. Clearly a blanket of snow. For me though what is so intriguing is that this isn’t your standard, rounded, gentle snow mounds, or drifts. The underlying landscape is seemingly more “rugged” and of course we have no clue if there are rocks, shrubs, etc. It looks more like the snow has covered a large and diverse landscape, which makes it much more than just “snow muffins”. I have no idea if that made any sense.
Aside from the obvious and wonderful texture you have captured, the “forms” are less sinuous and gentle, and a bit more rugged (with soft edges) and random. Yet, all put together this is a very harmonious composition.
John, I’m with you in the sense that I too am trying to learn and appreciate the “how does this make you feel,” vs. "how does this look. My description above is more about what I feel or my impression. What would follow next would be my analytical comments.
I’m trying to decide if this is the right exposure level. I like the warm/cool contrast you’ve created. I suppose you could take that further, OR just given in and go b&w. Going b&w would of course emphasize shape, form and texture, but then you’d lose that warm/cool balance. Getting back to the exposure, I’m almost seeing this as being exposed under moonlight, rather than daylight? Not that it matters. I do think you’ve struck a very good balance with the light and tones.
The framing/composition is awesome. I don’t see any tension (unlike my comments on your previous image.)
I know you were looking for something other than bluebird skies… but from these posts, I’d say you took full advantage and made excellent use with the conditions.
