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Alan Brown's picture

Further experimentation on a theme

This is an experiment of shooting a series of images at a longer focal length along the area at the front of the tree. As with others, images were overlaid and blended in Photoshop.
I think the longer focal length provides a different perspective.Just another experiment to determine what is possible and to improve my technique.

I'd be interested in hearing feedback (the good, the bad and the ugly all welcomed) along with any suggestions. Hopefully this will generate conversation that we can all learn from.

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15 Comments

I like the concept but the trees each side are mirrored and so that takes the eye away from the middle. I keep going back and forth, side to side to check.

Thanks for your input Adam.

I was aware of the trees and was wondering how the effect would be perceived by others, so thanks for offering that view.
In truth there was an ugly distraction on one side that I wanted to overcome so used this as a learning opportunity.

I'd be interested to hear the thoughts of others - do all agree with Adam, have thoughts on what works/does not work in the image?
This was never intended to be portfolio-worthy, so feel free to express true opinion (this is an ego-free zone).

I've never liked symmetry, Alan, so it won't surprise you that I tend to agree with Adam. He describes well the general problem with symmetry.

Ha, I've been waiting for your input Chris (almost apologized upfront for the symmetry as I've taken in past comments).

Apart from the symmetry, how do you like the clouds :-)

I always appreciate your input, even when we disagree you act as my conscience,

Clouds're a bit symmetrical, actually, Alan. Tut, tut.

Hi Alan. Contrary to your concept, would you consider trying one image with sharp tree in centre? May be of a bigger scale making it focal point of the image. Somehow my perception is demanding to look for that element as core strength of frame. a step more, may be the background trees would complete the line since you are already "making" the image.
Perhaps am the only one here thinking this way. Thanks.

That's certainly something to consider Vijay. That and I think the tree would be better suited with foliage.

All good points to consider for future visits. Thanks for the thought.

Hi Alan, revisitng your journey of these set of images, I have realized, subconsciously I always look for one sharp element in the frame to hold my vision at. in your concept anything sharp obviously becomes important in "shaken" surrounding. I somehow do not subscribe to everything shaken. Well that's my perception.

irrespective, if you don't mind sharing, How do you capture such images? how do you shake the sensor?

thanks.

Thanks Vijay, actually stirred, not shaken...…. :-)

The effect comes from a series of 'sharp' images taken at different angles around, or in front of a central subject.
Overlaying & selective blending the multiple images in PS builds the subject while removing the sharp detail from the background.

This is the same technique used in many of my recent images, but it works better with something more uniformly round - trees with foliage work great but there's not many around late in the year.

I have actually written a few blog entries on my website explaining the process - you may find this useful;
https://www.alanbrownphotography.com/blog/2019/11/11/in-the-round-lesson...

Greatly appriciated. Will check the same. thanks.

For me this has merit. The subject centered with it being supported by each side appeals to me. It is unfussy and clear, could easily be a book cover.

Thanks for willing to offer a fresh perspective Mike. Your appraisal actually matches my own,clean & simple, but not a final product.

I hadn't considered the book angle - now if there are any authors out there.........

Just don't approach Pink Floyd, Alan. I got there first.

Hi Alan, I'll have to represent the other side of the bell curve. I like symetry. If this was a standard landscape i might prefer less symmetrical perfection. However these subject/technique combinations need something to anchor them so that the effects don't overwhelm the subjects. I think the symetry here is what makes this image work for me. I miss you brighter colors but this has "white page syndrome " and does look better opened.

Keep them coming Alan!

Thanks for offering up a balanced perspective Ruth - the bell curve was starting to look decidedly lop-sided