Clearing

Thank you for commenting.

1Ds3, 16-35II at 16mm, GND, polarizer, 1/20 second at f/14.

I like the atmosphere/mood this conveys and the detail in the foreground. Looks like it could use a boost in contrast on my monitor...some blacker blacks.??

Marc,
I really enjoyed the black and white image you posted on ESS last week. Better than the color image that came after it. Though I thought it was nice as well. I think this is even better. Ever since I saw the first images of the Alvord from you, I have really kept an eye out for some similar cracked earth. with no success. I like the perspective/angle of view here, with the mountains. The two brighter areas in the sky, reflected 0n ground add a lot of impact to the scene. Is there some standing water here in the distance?

Chris

Hi Marc,
I've really been enjoying your recent work, and this is no exception. Love the foreground. I think I agree with Mark though, I think more contrast would help, something like this?
(Let me know if you would rather I didn't post the edit)

Nice shot, as with the others, Marc. I'm a fan of your use of vignetting approach, and would like to see this here...

I like the lighter version personally-so does my fiancee Mandy. Its more unique that way.

I love the ethereal reflection on the playa, almost looks like its been bronzed. Think I'd prefer it to have a less exaggerated foreground though. To me the focus should be in the atmosphere and the central area of the image where the depth is conveyed, the immediate foreground draws too much away from that, imho.

Sweet shot - if this is Burgerville, I'd like mine with more contrast and your trademark vignetting to keep more interest in the center of the shot.

Vanilla Milkshake, too, please.

Tom, it's generally considerate to ask permission b4 you post a re edit. That's the rules anyway.
I do like something 3/4's of the way between your post and Tom's...leaning towards Tom's more. However, that being said...I know you are playing with toning as of late...so you are testing the waters here. Toning has it's place, but personally am not sure if this image is better with it.
I DONT think vignetting would look good here, myself. I get a little tired of too many darkened corners.

I prefer the foggy feel of the original post. After all your images of this area, Marc, I would love to visit. Thanks for posting.

hmmm...I think I'm going to have to go with Tom on this one.

I should point out that Tom's repost would never work for this image due to the fact contrast was already increased 100% or more from the original file, which was extremely light and showed little clouds at all. I liked the bright, airy, open feel to the first image which for me is more evocative of a 'clearing', where as Tom's is more dark and intimidating.

Would it be possible to add more contrast to the foreground?