Risen

A lone tree amongst some hidden hills. Felt the b+w treatment added to the scene when viewing this. I also like how the roots became visible at the bottom elevating the tree to look like its rising from its terra confines.

Thanks for your time and comments

Canon 40D
10-22 @ 15mm
CPL and 6 stops of ND
2.5 sec @ f 22

I realized I posted the darker version. Here is the actual finished version. I usually keep a darker one for other purposes. This is more viewer friendly

The second is better at this size. Has some interesting textures, shades.

Anthony, overall scene is a tad too dark, this may be compression issues or may be what you were overall trying to achieve. For me, there needs to be some object with lighter values whether it be the tree, sky or background. The textures are nice and the comp looks pretty good. The roots of the tree outreaching add a sense of the struggle here too.

I like the mood you've created here a lot. I really like the 'risen' idea you incorporated in the composition as well. I do agree with Mitch that you need some lighter tones somewhere in the frame to really make this dramatic composition stand out. It doesn't look like anyplace in the Midwest I'm familiar with. Where was this shot? Very cool idea nicely composed.

Did you use any plug-ins in the B&W conversion? If so would you let me know? I like the look and some of my b&w do not have the punch I would like

thanks

I like the eerie mood set by the darkness, it works well here. Good tones and comp!

I really like the composition and the use of B&W.

Thanks again to all for your time and comments
Just to answer most I kind of lean towards the darker side when processing my b+w. Might just be sub-conscious not sure, but I see the need for lighter tones as well. I will definitely experiment with bringing out some highlights- so thanks.
Brian E- This was just converted in PS4 using the channel mixer and some dodging and burning. I haven't used any plug-ins but hear a few are really good.
Brian V- Just a local spot I found and kind of hidden. Wouldn't say secret but Im drawn to areas off the beaten path.

Lots of drama here, Anthony. I do agree with the general sentiment that pushing the highlights will go a long way toward making this even more dramatic. B&W usually works best (IMO) when the full range of tones is exploited. I'd suggest working on the clouds specifically. If you use Tony Kuyper's luminosity masks, I'd suggest a Light Lights channel with a curves lightning layer. If you don't use TK's luminosity (and saturation) masks, I highly recommend them.