Dan Mottaz
About the Image(s)
Thank you to the group members for inviting me in.
Like life, I try to make my images without a lot of unnecessary distractions. Here, in Bandon, Oregon, during the sunrise period, I composed this shot and made a few test captures. After some framing adjustments, I waited for the perfect light. Then, I saw a seagull wandering in and out of frame. Not being a wildlife photographer, my first instinct was to shoo the pesky bugger out of the scene. "But wait! That might be good!" So I waited for a long few minutes. The bird stopped in the perfect spot. I pressed the button.
For several years I've been drawn to this section of Face Rock Beach. But during my last visit there, I wanted to make the scene more simple than what I've done in the past. Previsualization is important to me, but it's a challange where there's constant change. So, with a few things in mind, I pursued a shot that wasn't quite complete in my mind.
In post, the RAW image was converted using ACR. I applied the usual PS Adjustment layers - Curves, H&S, Color Select, etc., along with NIK for some fine tuning. I felt that the image was still not right. So with NIK's Silver Effects Pro, I converted it to Monochrome to strip out the distracting color and made some further light and contrast adjustments.
Tools and Settings: Canon 5D MK III with Canon 16-35 L Lens. Focal Length 21mm, 2 Sec Exp., f/22, ISO 50. Singh-Ray 3-stop GND filter and a RRS tripod.
This round’s discussion is now closed!
10 comments posted
(Groups 66 & 86)
Since it is such a nice image, I'd offer a couple of minor touches for your consideration. I think the horizon is slightly out of level - it is close but given the simplicity of the image it was standing out a bit to me. Of course an easy fix. I also feel like the top edge needs a little more breathing room. If the distance from the top of the taller rock to the edge were maybe 50% more, I think it wouldn't feel as tight. Perhaps re-crop with content aware fill, which I imagine would work pretty well given the simplicity of the sky. Again, just a couple of thoughts. Even without it is a beautiful image.
  Posted: 09/12/2020 07:55:58
(Group 79)
Again - I would want to take this picture myself one day. If I did I would make two changes:
the base of the rocks is a little too black - is there is a way to bring back some more features (perhaps locally masking with a less contrasted version)
I think you have added a horizontal vignette - for me it is a little heavy - particularly as it is not seen in the reflection in the water. I would pull it back a little.
  Posted: 09/13/2020 11:57:43
(Group 87)
I agree with other comments regarding cropping to place the rocks more off center and to add more breathing room at the top. I would brighten the rocks a little too and add some texture.
I have added these recommendations in a quick edited version.   Posted: 09/27/2020 13:26:41