Every Picture Is a Compromise
Lessons from the Also-rans
Most photography websites show the photographer's very best work. Wonderful. But that's not the full story of a creative life. If we want to learn, we'd better pay attention to the images that aren't "greatest hits" and see what lessons they have to offer. Every picture is a compromise — the sum of its parts, optical, technical, visual, emotional, and even cosmic – well, maybe not cosmic, but sometimes spiritual. Success on all fronts is rare. It's ok to learn from those that are not our best.
This is a series about my also-rans, some of which I've been able to improve at bit (i.e., "best effort"), none of which I would consider my best. With each there are lessons worth sharing, so I will.
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Original digital capture
Deep Shadows Week
I know that "photography" is "light writing." Sometimes, however, it is not the light but the deep shadow that makes the image succeed. This week will be examples of deep shadows that bring the brightly lit objects to life.
What I saw that I liked:
Traveling alongside creeks in a canyon, I'll often find that some of the trees and plants are in the sun and the far bank of the creek is in the shadow. I love that isolation of tones.
What I don't like in the picture:
In the one above, the shadows are not quite deep enough to isolate this winter branch.
What I learned:
The image at left is a combination of underexposure by a stop and pushing the darkest tones down in processing. I like it! The few yellow leaves in the upper left corner provide an accent that adds color to this image.
2nd Chances: What I might try next
Do I get rid of the tree in the background center? |
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