Two views of barrel cactus

Image Critiques Abstract Nature Critiques
1

Barrel 3 c-2.JPG
Barrel 3 c-2.JPG5330×3553 2.42 MB

Barrel 5 c-2.JPG
Barrel 5 c-2.JPG2684×1789 1.46 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

Barrel cactus are common in the Sonoran Desert and I’ve always found their structure appealing. It occurred to me that the structure might be more evident if I selected the shadows on this image and inverted the luminosity, so I did. That necessitated a lot of further changes and I worked up four versions , all very different. I let them sit for a while and I found something to like in these two.

Specific Feedback

Any reactions or thoughts would be welcome.

Technical Details

ISO 1000, 135mm, f/11, 1/320th. Lots of tweaking and tinkering in Photoshop.

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2

I prefer the first rendition as it’s an interesting take on the subject - it’s abstract yet still recognizable. The varying color and tone make it the winner of the two IMO.

3

Jim, thanks for the feedback.

4

I have a fondness for randomness, Don, and these fill that craving very nicely. I like both of them pretty much equally. The stark black and white lets me explore the forms and interconnections without the distraction of color, but the colored image has it’s own appeal due to the juxtaposition of the various colors. Nice job on the creation of these.

5

Thanks, Dennis. Most of the approaches to abstraction that I’m aware of involve some randomness. I think that’s part of the appeal for me.

6

Don, these are both very appealing, but my personal prference is of the colour abstract version.
The unusual colours are striking.
Really fine work!

7

Thanks, Sandy.

8

Don,

I like these very much. For me I prefer the color version, it draws me in more and seems to have more depth. But I think both work very well.

9

Thanks for commenting, Dom.