The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
Over the past few weeks I’ve made repeated trips to the same local woodland to explore and scout for images. This is a scene I came across on Friday, I feel a bit conflicted about it, the light was harsh and I think some atmosphere would be a benefit, but I think there is some potential here. I also think there may be multiple compositions in the same area.
Specific Feedback
This is a fairly quick edit, I’ve tried to clam down the harsh light in the middle-ground a bit while retaining some of the contrast. I’ve also applied an Orton effect to try to create a little depth in the background while softening it. I don’t think this is the ‘final’ edit, I’ll probably leave this picture alone for a while and come back to it… and maybe try the scene in some different conditions, but I’m curious what people think of it.
Technical Details
Nikon z7 ii
Nikon 24-70 F4 S lens @40mm F8
Focus stacked
ISO 64
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Dom,
My initial impression is that I very much enjoy this woodland scene. I never would have known that the light was harsh because it looks pretty diffused and even to me with some nice details and no harsh shadows. I also like the way that you laid out the three main trees across the frame.
I hope you keep working the scene under different conditions and let us see the results. Beautifully done IMO.
Dom, I appreciate the way you placed the three main elements a lot. There is a bold triangle leading me into the depth and keeping my attention within the frame. I also like the prominent character of the old trees, they are really story tellers to me.
Due to the strong composition I also thought about going to b&w - my first attempt was convincing for me and I would like to suggest you to give it a try. I am curious to know what you think about it.
Thanks @Peter_Richter i have tried it in black and white and I agree, it does work and could be a different direction. On balance at the moment I prefer the colour version, I like the greens and yellows in the background, but I do think either works.
The placement of the three main trees in the frame is great and makes for a really strong/bold composition. I also think that you tamed the light really well and the greens and the browns are lovely and I find them very relaxing.
I really like the composition of this photo. Very interesting and I don’t see the light as harsh at all. I think for me its sets a somewhat somber of menacing mood (perhaps because of the dark branches at the top) but that doesn’t stop me from liking it.
