The Mighty Have Fallen

Image Critiques Weekly Challenge
1

Mighty-Fallen-39567_LuminarNeo-editA7r3XL.jpg
Mighty-Fallen-39567_LuminarNeo-editA7r3XL.jpg2000×1334 2.96 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

In 2 Samuel 1:19 David laments the death of King Saul and his son Jonathan at the hand of the Philistines. While exploring the Redwoods along the Avenue of the Giants I came upon this scene and was immediately reminded of the story. It was very quiet and it definitely put me into a contemplative mood. Even the mighty fall. But this one at least is a source of new growth.

Specific Feedback

As you might imagine, this was a challenging exposure with the direct sunlight filtering through the canopy combined with the deep shadows inside the root cavity. I shot this with HDR in mind but was not happy with the results output by LRC. I sat on it for some time but I acquired Luminar Neo and decided to give it a try. It was significantly better and produced this result. This stuff is scary impressive.
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Technical Details

Sony A7rIII
Sony FE 16-25 G @ 22mm, CPL
ISO 400, f16, 1/5 - 20 second exposures, HDR in LRC and Luminar Neo

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

Great Image Bill. Shooting trees is hard to to do. To Capture the tone and texture. I think you captured the massive size of this fallen tree. Natural color and really sharp… Very Cool. !!!

3

Hi Bill,
This turned out beautifully considering the wide dynamic range you were dealing with. This redwood is still impressive as it continues to nourish the forest surrounding it. For my tastes you kept just enough of the shadow area to add an air of mystery to this scene. Beautifully done.

4

Bill, this is a fine look at this fallen giant, where the extended depth adds well to the story of death and rebirth. The lighting looks good in this view.