Nature Photographers Network
This is the preserved archive of the original Nature Photographers Network. The community continues at naturephotographers.network.

Rock wall abstract

Discussion

11 replies
Posted by Paul Wegemann on February 12, 2011 at 1:17 PM
Rock wall abstract
Two things about this image I should let everyone know; 1. It's been extensively manipulated (some hdr, some LAB, TK's masks, some dodging and burning, some blend modes, ....) and 2. This rendition is exactly how I picture this place in my mind. It's a local rock climbing area(if you look closely you'll see chalk marks in the upper left) sans climbers as I shot this on a really cold, cloudy day.
I know this won't be everyone's cup of tea, but for those inclined to comment, I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Posted by Pam Colander on February 12, 2011 at 1:27 PM
Love the colors and texture in this Paul. Blacks look like they have a bluish cast...is that how they looked or is that your vision?
Posted by Morris McClung on February 12, 2011 at 2:24 PM
All in all it actually looks pretty natural to me. Especially since I have no idea where this is, so I have no memory reference to dispute your vision. :smile: Beyond that, I think it is a beautiful piece of art that needs to be printed huge and hung on the wall. I really like the mix of colors and textures!
Posted by Stan Rose on February 12, 2011 at 2:56 PM
Pretty neat, Paul--some nice textures! My philosophy with abstracts like this is that if you can crop to improve the balance, the crop/comp aint tight enough. Here, I prefer the top 2/3, the bottom jagged part doesnt gel as well...
Posted by Joseph Kayne on February 12, 2011 at 3:31 PM
I love the colors!!! :toast:
Posted by John Mumaw on February 12, 2011 at 4:13 PM
There's a lot going on in this wall, and your 'development' has brought out the very best.
After outlining all of your steps, this looks gloriously natural to me. That's gold standard processing in my book.
Stan has a point about cropping, but is a bit too harsh in the amount. I think cropping just above your copyright is plenty.
Great job of seeing this and pursuing your vision with the final image!
Posted by Bret Edge on February 12, 2011 at 8:29 PM
This is a fantastic abstract detail photo. Love the colors and textures. Excellent work! :toast:
Posted by Bill Pelzmann on February 12, 2011 at 9:48 PM
Well done, Paul. I like the processing. I agree with John's crop suggestion. It would help simplify the bottom and leave a dark base.
Posted by Paul Wegemann on February 13, 2011 at 6:30 AM
Thanks folks. I appreciate your input. Great idea about the crop, and Pam, good eye for seeing the blue shadows. I didn't even notice that. Even in my mind :smile:
Posted by Todd Caudle on February 13, 2011 at 4:13 PM
Beautiful shot, Paul! I'm not sure I'd even bother mentioning the manipulation, just let the image stand on its own. Which it does very well!
Posted by Paul Wegemann on February 13, 2011 at 6:08 PM
Thanks, Todd. I wondered if I should disclose the manipulation or not, but I didn't want anyone to accuse me of any fakery. I'll keep your comment in mind for the future.
Posted by Dan Walters on February 13, 2011 at 9:44 PM
Great detail and color in the rock. Makes for a very abstract image.