I've experimented with "in the round" several times with mixed results. I decided I would give it another try with this clock in downtown Roxboro, North Carolina. I actually took the photos for this about 2 years ago. I could never get it to look the way I wanted. Today I decided I would revisit and try again. I feel like I may have left too much detail in the clock and the mural in the background. Since the mural is already a painting I didn't want it to get too "muddy" for lack of a better term. I also replaced the sky because...why not. I liked the shadow of the clock too much to take it out. I realize it may not fit with the sky replacement but I'm willing to bet most people wouldn't even give it another thought. Anyways, would love to get some feedback on this.
Thanks!
Results using this technique tend to be a fine balance between what you want to preserve and what is abstracted (and to what level).
As you know, I have used this method pretty extensively and come against the very scenarios you describe (clocks tend to be a challenge).
I'd love to see the clock taken from a different angle that does not include the mural (or the mural allowed to fade into abstraction?) as this would leverage the technique to its fullest. I also think that the number of (active) layers in use as well as angles have a big impact on backgrounds.
I have no issue with the sky and would not have noticed without your explanation.
All in all though I think you've done a fine job, and have processed this hybrid well to preserve the elements you feel important.
If folks are interested (and have not yet seen) I do have a guide available on my website that explains the nuances of the in-the-round technique, including the clock face challenge.....
https://www.alanbrownphotography.com/pep-ventosa-guide-advanced
Thanks Alan! I had your clock example from your website up as I was doing this. I may work on this some more to get the mural to fade away some more. Thanks again for the feedback and your wonderful resources on how to do this.
I think it's all up to you, Kyle, what you want and don't want and the story you want to tell. It reminds me of one of those crazy fantasy photos. I like it a lot. I think the ONLY thing I would change is to lessen the detail in the clock face like you already said. It feels too real for the rest of the photo. Like you, I like the shadow of the clock, and I like the sky too; it fits the feel of all the colors. Nice work!
Thank you! I think I am going to do some more work on it and lessen some of the detail.
You might want to check out this video by Alex Kilbee.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mg_Zl-xDnkk