Dale Yates
December 2024 - Evening Stroll in the Woods
About the Image(s)
Image Description: while on an evening stroll through a local park earlier this month, I noted this crude path leading into the woods. Paths like this always intrigue me, wondering where they lead and what’s out there. This image is low key on purpose in order to emphasize both the mystery and the early evening stroll.
Post production was performed in LR. This image was converted to monochrome using Silver Efex Pro 2, Underexposed (EV-1) preset.
This image was taken with the following: RAW format; Canon 90D camera; Tamron 18-200mm, f/3.5-6.3 zoom lens; aperture f/11; shutter speed 1/20; ISO 2000; focal length 42mm; hand held
12 comments posted
Dale, I'm with you. I love paths-wondering about the road less taken. I can see the path, which leads my eye into the image. The BW is interesting. I would like to see the original. Posted: 12/04/2024 16:07:14
Thanks Cindy! Here is the original of the image as requested. Posted: 12/04/2024 16:22:32
The BW version is more appealing.
Posted: 12/04/2024 16:34:13
Posted: 12/04/2024 16:34:13
Dale, this image does appeal to me. I also like the color original that draws my eyes to the path and leaves of the large tree due to the relative brightness to their color.
My feeling is that the opposite is true in the monochrome image. the path is darker than the surroundings and so the eye is led away from the path and to the lighter areas. Let me suggest the possibility of changing where the eye goes first through some tone sculpturing (burning and dodging). Posted: 12/06/2024 21:26:25
My feeling is that the opposite is true in the monochrome image. the path is darker than the surroundings and so the eye is led away from the path and to the lighter areas. Let me suggest the possibility of changing where the eye goes first through some tone sculpturing (burning and dodging). Posted: 12/06/2024 21:26:25
Thanks Chan, this is very helpful! I was trying to create some contrast with the darker roadway and lighter surroundings. However, I really like what you did with the image in having a lighter road leading a darker background in the woods. This really makes a very nice viewing experience! Thank you again! Posted: 12/09/2024 00:32:43
I am glad that it helps. Thanks Posted: 12/09/2024 00:48:41
I like the B&W processing - it's more engaging. I also agree with Chan that your image is rather flat - and there are opportunities to use light (dodge/burn) to guide the view through the image. It's a calm/restful scene. Nicely done. Posted: 12/06/2024 22:06:10
Thanks Steven! I appreciate your comments and agree regarding the dodge/burn necessity. Posted: 12/09/2024 00:33:49
Hi Dale,
A lovely, slightly mysterious scene! I like it in monochrome as it evokes the feel of an evening walk. I agree that there is more that can be done to emphasize the path. I like the version Chan offered - minimal changes, but the viewer's eye is directed more effectively to the trail.
Posted: 12/08/2024 00:29:24
A lovely, slightly mysterious scene! I like it in monochrome as it evokes the feel of an evening walk. I agree that there is more that can be done to emphasize the path. I like the version Chan offered - minimal changes, but the viewer's eye is directed more effectively to the trail.
Posted: 12/08/2024 00:29:24
Thanks Jennifer! I also agree with Chan's work on the image (please note my comments to him). Posted: 12/09/2024 00:34:44
A very lovely composition, Dale. Well balanced, and the color original enjoys the separation of both color, texture and light and shadow variables.
"Points to Ponder"
Another B&W interpretation could be found by way of bringing more of the separation of color, light and shadow I speak of ... by, as Chan mentioned, a bit more work involving Dodge & Burn, and, running the B&W converted image through a Red filter: as we often did using B&W film, a red filter, as well as other colors, help reveal more character in the overall composition.
See my example that tries to mimic the color original, and in turn, may also be bringing a bit more depth than the featured image. Of course, this example is just one more of many B&W interpretations, yours and Chan's being two others. (Note, because of the super low resolution of the PSA image, it was hard to properly edit, but you get the idea). Posted: 12/08/2024 17:09:10
"Points to Ponder"
Another B&W interpretation could be found by way of bringing more of the separation of color, light and shadow I speak of ... by, as Chan mentioned, a bit more work involving Dodge & Burn, and, running the B&W converted image through a Red filter: as we often did using B&W film, a red filter, as well as other colors, help reveal more character in the overall composition.
See my example that tries to mimic the color original, and in turn, may also be bringing a bit more depth than the featured image. Of course, this example is just one more of many B&W interpretations, yours and Chan's being two others. (Note, because of the super low resolution of the PSA image, it was hard to properly edit, but you get the idea). Posted: 12/08/2024 17:09:10
Thanks Lance! I like what you did in having a dark path to lead the viewers eyes. In looking over all the comments, I note two options on the roadway, a lighter road (Chan's comments) and a darker road (your comments). In my opinion, both of these are very good options. I also appreciate you mentioning the red filter. This is new to me and something that I will definitely explore. This is the value of our group...learning from others and their experience! Thanks again! Posted: 12/09/2024 00:45:04