Denice Woyski
September 2023 - Untitled
About the Image(s)
I was at Calaveras Big Trees, and the light filtering through the big trees and backlighting leaves on trees and shrubs under the canopy really caught my eye. I really liked how the leaves glowed and were rim lit.
I processed this image in PS and then NIK Silver Effects and I really liked how the leaves popped out of the background with this preset. I removed the added grain, and toned down the regular and fine structure, but the texture in the leaves is still very evident. This preset also has a bit of a cool tone to it. I never tone my black and white images, so thought I would give it try. I actually like this as it seems really subtle, at least on my monitor. I have been in a very moody and low or lower key frame of mind as well, so I definitely kept the shadows down on purpose.
Once I say this, you won’t be able to unsee it, but I didn’t notice that these leaves look like a bird or pterodactyl until I processed the image! I don’t know if that’s a good or a bad thing.
My EXIF data is:
ISO 200 24-105mm @ 70mm
f/8
1/125s
4 comments posted
Nice dark and moody shot. The backlighting enhances the texture and detail on the leaves. The shadows create depth and add to the mood. Yes, I do see the bird, but only because you mentioned it. I like the composition. Good job. Posted: 09/13/2023 19:50:45
First, I like it because there is a wide range of tone without excessive contrast (my own sin). I see the subject as being the from leaf - and its detail for me is sufficient to merit the image. The back leaf is as Peter points out not as sharp, and I think this supports what I see as full black and white regions on the leaf: basically I see it as already an accent to the front and so its more graphic (than realistic) treatment works. Finally the third element provides a transition between these two styles and I think completes the composition.
Nicely spotted! Posted: 09/14/2023 11:12:10