Brad Becker
April 2026 - Inner Silence
Original
Original 2
About the Image(s)
This sunset on the California coast evoked an awe reaction. I played with it a bunch and eventually tried creating a mirror image symmetry to it. After adding a variety of subjects such as birds and animals, this Vietnamese Monk created the best feeling. I extracted him from a busy street scene in Hanoi which didn't fit his peaceful energy, the beach felt perfect for his inner space.
14 comments posted
For a while I couldn't decide whether a single sunset would be better. But I don't think so. The double sunset creates an other-worldly, alien feel. The figure is important. There are many that would not like the fact that he is heading out of the picture, but I like that. It creates tension and helps spark the story telling side of the picture. Is he hurring to complete some ceremony before the suns go down, or is there something more sinister about to happen? Posted: 04/06/2026 09:23:33
Robin, Thanks for your comments and appreciation Posted: 04/10/2026 21:16:26
Well done. The peaceful landscape and the monk tell the story. Posted: 04/09/2026 14:52:42
Thanks Debbie Posted: 04/10/2026 21:16:44
Good decision to create the double sunset as I think it balances the image and would make an interesting panoramic shot.Adding the monk creates a story for the viwer to invent; why is he there, where are his footprnts ? ? and so on. Posted: 04/09/2026 18:22:39
Ian, I appreciate the considerations you bring to the image, I wonder too. Posted: 04/10/2026 21:17:33
The sunsets create a disturbing feel to the image. Is that Trump or some other deranged being playing in the background, about to create the next apocalypse? The monk is a good contrast by creating the calm that might offset the approaching doom?? Posted: 04/10/2026 19:16:54
Hazel, I can see how the image can create a disturbing energy and I think that's why I added the monk to balance the tone. Posted: 04/10/2026 21:18:59
(Groups 24 & 48)
Just wandering through the groups and came cross. I love your finished product...wouldn't chanage a thing. Posted: 04/12/2026 20:30:22
Bev, Thanks for visiting and your support Posted: 04/12/2026 21:09:38
It almost looks like a celestial body feel to the scene. Well done Brad. Posted: 04/15/2026 11:18:49
Thanks Nadia Posted: 04/16/2026 03:56:58
Brad, Your final image is quite thoughtful. The doubling an.d flipping of the original works well, with the exception of of the two suns. I wonder if it would make sense to remove one of the suns And maybe a little more light on the priest. Otherwise, it is a wonderful conception and very well execute. Good job. Posted: 04/15/2026 23:51:41
Joan, Thanks for your feedback. I added a shadow to the Monk to ground him in the ground some but had trouble imagining adding more light as he would likely be darker in this scene with the suns setting behind him. I tried a version of the background with one sun but ended up liking two suns as it created a little more of a creepy image which looks more like Mother Nature is looking at you. I realize my sensibilities don't align with everyone's. Posted: 04/16/2026 04:00:43