Rita Johnston
October 2026 - Black Tie Shopping
Original
About the Image(s)
I took this photo in April with my iPhone 16 pro max in Nordstrom’s dress area. In processing it, I increased the size first thing. I adjusted the colors and light with ACR, and initially left it at that. A PSA volunteer judge commented on it, did not like that the red dress took away from the subject. Do you agree?
I changed it to Black and White. Taking it into Silver Effects Pro, I tried several filters and ended up with applying Street High Contrast. I know it has halos (which can be fixed), but would like your comments on will be appropriate as a PSA entry, and does the essence of the story come across as a B&W?
All comments are appreciated.
3 comments posted
This is a very attractive image. The monochrome treatment really improves the original image, in my opinion.
The only thing that bothers me is the slanted top to bottom verticle pole. I think I would like it better if that were removed. But that's just my personal opinion, as I have a tendency to straighten such angles in my own images, and the slant of that pole caught my eye before anything else in the image. Posted: 10/03/2026 03:46:01
The only thing that bothers me is the slanted top to bottom verticle pole. I think I would like it better if that were removed. But that's just my personal opinion, as I have a tendency to straighten such angles in my own images, and the slant of that pole caught my eye before anything else in the image. Posted: 10/03/2026 03:46:01
I think the conversion to B & W really suits this image. It adds some mood and makes the details in the mannequin's dress stand out more.
I actually like that you have different angles in the image. To me, it gives it a film noir feel.
Posted: 10/05/2026 14:54:15
I actually like that you have different angles in the image. To me, it gives it a film noir feel.
Posted: 10/05/2026 14:54:15
I do agree with the judge who recommended B/W; those red dresses just jump out at the viewer. The lighting in the monochrome version is really nice and the details of the dress in contrast to the simplicity of the mannequin is a nice juxtaposition. However, I'm in the same camp as Georgianne; all those non-vertical and non-horizontal lines feel very "off." There are so many to deal with that using lens correction would be a nightmare here. You had a good eye to stop and capture this scene though! Posted: 10/10/2026 20:53:39