I've always liked the idea of ICM, but wasn't sure I could ever use it in a way that I enjoy. I'm trying to go for less complete abstraction, but I think this could be a worthwhile experiment.
Looking for feedback or advice from those that have played with this style successfully.
I'm in no way a professional and this is just my opinion, but from what I understand about this type of photography is you still need a focal point. These seem to just be smears on the image.
If it were me, I would have focused on the buildings in the first picture and took a long exposure sweeping up. I feel it would have given the buildings a look of either being "beamed" up or slamming down.
Pretty much the same with the with 2nd picture. A sweeping up motion would have created a blur coming out of the posts and the individual in the photograph while adding a fog like effect to the water.
This might be of some interest
https://digital-photography-school.com/intentional-camera-movement-lands...
Thanks for the feedback Brandon and Terry! I don't particularly agree that the linked article is the only way to shoot ICM, but the feedback is heard and I'll try to focus it more.
Hey John, just a quick word. I personally don't believe there is a right or wrong method here. As art in any form is so subjective my mantra is that you have to produce what fits your own artistic impression.
I think there is potential for both images and would encourage you to keep experimenting to fulfill your own vision.
A question for you - how do YOU feel about the images? If you had to critique for another what would you say? Understanding that will help you reach your own expectations.
I in no way want to discourage you to not keep it up with this type of photography. I wasn't even aware this was a thing. I know about long exposure and I like trying to work with it and was going to do a long exposure of the river today, but I forgot my ND filter and was getting attacked by bugs because I forgot my bug spray as well.
As Alan said, art is what you make of it and if you enjoy your pictures, that's all that matters. I was just trying to give my input on what I seen and what I would do differently had I been the one taking the photos.
Keep it up. I'm curious to see what you come up with.
Hi John - YEA for experimenting! And for posting for feedback! It is the best way to learn. I think that ICM work is really hard. Both of the images show a solid attempt and that is great. I like the mood of the second one best.
This technique isn't something that just works without trial and error as it is using the camera in a different way. Here is an article that I like as it shows all different kinds of cool ICM images for inspiration.
https://www.digital-photo-secrets.com/tip/3896/outstanding-intentional-c...
I also am interested in knowing what you think about these.
You have inspired me to post an ICM of my own and I have no idea what feedback it will get! Thanks!
Keep them coming!
PS - this second image has something that brings me back to check it out again. Nicely done!
Thanks again, all. I do appreciate the feedback - I think my previous comment implied I just wanted praise. Not my intention at all. I read the comments as ICM should be specific shots and only those shots, and I was trying the technique for a specific feel. Apologies, as I could have been more helpful by explaining my inspiration and what I was hoping to accomplish, to avoid my own misunderstanding of feedback. Can't get constructive feedback if I just post and say "go" :)
Both images were intended to be more dreamlike, with the first image focusing on the children in the lake, rather than the buildings, and intended to seem like a distant memory. I know it could be better, but I'm at a loss for how. I think overlaying a second image with vertical blur on the buildings is a great idea.
The second was meant to be more haunting than pleasant, inspired by the mythology of the Dark Souls series. I think having more of a gothic background than Lake Michigan could have captured more of that feel. I'll have to hunting for the right buildings.
I'm definitely not saying these are perfect, so truly - thanks for the targeted feedback.
Ruth, those pictures are great! I'm particularly drawn to the impressionistic images. Photographers like Andy Gray and Chris Friel are pushing our artform forward in exciting ways, in my opinion, and I think the link has some quality work similar to them