Peggy Reeder  


Monument Cafe by Peggy Reeder

October 2020 - Monument Cafe

October 2020 - Peggy Reeder

Original 1

October 2020 - Peggy Reeder

Original 2

About the Image(s)

This is a night shot that I took a few years ago to fulfill an assignment for a class I was taking. I liked the Art Deco look of this restaurant, and since it was closed in the evenings, it was an easy subject to shoot. This was a 3 second exposure at f/13 and ISO 100. The color version actually turned out well and showed a deep blue sky, as shown in Original 2. But I tried it out in Nik's Silver Efex Pro and really liked the black and white effect with the sepia finish.


This round’s discussion is now closed!
7 comments posted




Marti Buckely   Marti Buckely
I like the monochrome rendering. The details are very good. I wasn't sure if the sky could be darker to make it more "night-like". I probably should have added in a little more sepia.
I think the B/W is more appealing than the color - especially as an art deco look.   Posted: 10/10/2020 19:31:00
Comment Image
Peggy Reeder   Peggy Reeder
Yes I like your darker version.   Posted: 10/10/2020 20:05:05



Jerry Biddlecom   Jerry Biddlecom
Peggy, this is a great image! I can't think of too much to say that would add to it. The exposure overall is very good, and, at least to me, there's a nice compositional triangle between the lit sign, the closest bench and the door with all of the notes attached. I don't know if you could have avoided it, but my only complaint would be that too much of the right side of the structure is cut off. If you get a chance to revisit the scene, I think it might enhance the picture if you get someone you know to sit on the bench, maybe reading something or waiting (nervously?) for a ride.   Posted: 10/11/2020 07:45:46
Peggy Reeder   Peggy Reeder
That's a good idea.   Posted: 10/17/2020 14:38:23



Joseph J Zaia   Joseph J Zaia
I am enjoying the Art Deco, but I am not finding a focal point for my eye to rest on. My thoughts are like Jerry's, but since the restaurant is closed, I was thinking of a cat on the bench instead. In the color version, the window with the square panels is my focal point.   Posted: 10/12/2020 04:38:08
Peggy Reeder   Peggy Reeder
That's an interesting comment Joe. I can see what you mean. Next time I'll have someone or something on the bench.
  Posted: 10/17/2020 14:37:51



Kaylyn Franks   Kaylyn Franks
I like the sepia version best. It offers a vintage look. My first glance was a cafe from the 50's. The focal point for me is the sign and then I am lead along the curves of the structure and then to the other angles of the cafe. I think you chose a good angle to shoot from. My suggestions for improving is to add more of the building on the right and bottom and darkening the lights just a little.   Posted: 10/20/2020 10:43:35