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
Old Juniper, Sedona, AZ
Ok, I have no idea what to do with this image. I’m trying to learn better landscape techniques in 2025. Help, please!
(lots more similar images)
Creative direction
I’d like to bring out the character and mood of this magnificent old juniper.
Specific Feedback
Please - all criticisms and suggestions solicited!
Specific processing techniques to improve this, please, if you have time.
Thank you!
Technical Details
File Name: C:\Users\moons\OneDrive\Pictures\Sedona 2024\20241228-SR_00523 copy.jpg
Make: SONY
Model: ILCE-1
Software: Adobe Photoshop 26.2 (Windows) + DxO Pure Raw
Date Taken: 2024-12-28 16:28:13
Exposure Time: 1/320 sec
F Number: f/16
ISO Speed Ratings: ISO 3200
Exposure Program: Manual
Metering Mode: Center weighted average
Exposure Bias: 0 EV
Flash: No flash,compulsory
Focal Length: 94 mm
35mm Equivalent: 94 mm
Lens Model: E 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 A071
GPS:
Description
No specific vision - just found this cool tree!
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Sandy, talk about detail. I guess weather beats all. As I look closely, the bark looks like hair. You composition with lines and pattern makes a nice composition. Nice B&W conversion in which you have controlled the contrast well. The result for me is an abstract -looking most appealing intimate landscape.
There’s an odd vertical line in the upper left corner. Is this two trees with one in the foreground and one in the background?
For me, an image like this is all about texture and lines, and on that level this works well. I love the knots and what they bring to the image. However, for me it loses just a tad bit of impact if it’s not all tack sharp; it seems to be a little soft in the corners.
Great idea. Lots of lines and patterns. Inclusion of the knots and not having them centered is a good choice. I do, however, agree with John on this. It does need to be sharp overall. If it were printed, I think the corners would stand out as not as sharp as they should be. Showing my sometimes odd interpretation of images, in the enlarged version I see a creature (horizontal orientation looking to the right) trapped in the lower knot.
Hi Sandy,
I think the B&W conversion looks just fine and the vertical format emphasizes the lines and knots in the bark of the juniper beautifully. There are also tons of textures for the eye to enjoy. I do agree with @John_Williams about the whole image needing to be tack sharp. I am not sure what is going on because only the center of the image appears to be sharp so maybe a focus stack of a few frames if you have the opportunity to reshoot this lovely tree.
I do see what everyone is talking about in terms of sharpness. However, I’m not sure that is a really big issue. To me the image feels busy, even though the two notches break up the regularity. I would try to darken the image a bit for starters and then go from there. Actually I do think the lack of sharpness is an issue but I don’t think having it sharp would make this a great image.
