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Alan Brown's picture

For critique - Boston nightlife

Following my earlier posting (night diners) I have processed additional images taken when trolling the streets of Boston.

This is a technique I have ben trying to work on, and as always I don't expect the look to appeal to a broader audience.

For those willing to do so I'd love to hear opinions (whether novice or veteran) and what does/does not appeal in the images, if any stand out (I have a personal favorite) and any thoughts you might have on how to improve either images or technique.

I feel that analysis and feedback are important for personal growth so I encourage all not to be shy.

All viewpoints (negative or positive) are valid and appreciated.

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4 Comments

I think that the second and the fifth are the only ones that were able to draw my eyes to a clear focal point and have me be interested. I don't think that's a flaw of the technique though. I've never been a great fan of street photography anyway.

I do really like the fifth though.

Thanks for offering your viewpoint Matthew. I have always likes street photography that tells a story and enjoy matching that with a impressionistic touch to transport the viewer from their typical view of the world.

I can definitely understand how these may generate mixed reactions and feel it important to respect all viewpoints, so thanks again for being willing to add your voice.

Predictable response from me, Alan. I find the "stuttering" effect of the (presumably) multiple exposures a little jarring, although there is a sense of vitality and movement. It may be more conventional, but I think this might be better conveyed for me if the static parts were reasonably sharp, and the movements of people and other moving objects blurred through long (perhaps handheld) exposure. Maybe this is in fact the technique you used here.

Overall, I prefer 1, 3, and 5 - 5 probably most of all. I think in overall concept and composition all are strong, though, with tonalities creating just the right mood for your title.

5 is additionally interesting for me because of a certain ambiguity; it could seem the absorbed woman is blind to the shadowy, looming figure apparently heading in her direction - and is he wearing a balaclava? (Maybe it's you, Alan!)

Thanks Chris. Although your response may be at a higher level predictable I always both appreciate and enjoy your thoughtful analysis and feedback.

I love to see the 'flow' of people in images and the sense of movement between the different human elements. I have experimented with images as you suggest, using a tripod (yes.....) to maintain static elements whilst capturing the flow of humanity with either a slow shutter speed or multiple images. This did not work out as well for me, although TBH I may well revisit and experiment further.

I differ from you in that I personally like the way incidental detail can be controlled and diminished using this process.

I am in full agreement over your preferences, with 5 being my personal favorite (and the best composition overall).

The figure you mention turned out to be a happy accident - a guy in a hoodie walking into one of the frames and intentionally preserved in processing (so many frames had to be discarded as others strolled in front of the camera.....)

This was basically a first attempt at using this experimental technique, so hoping I get more opportunities to develop further.