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Alan Brown's picture

ICM variations on a theme

During my last outing to capture the willow tree image (posted earlier) I tried a number of ICM motions just to see what resulted and may be refined in future shots.

Although largely unsuccessful as profile images I thought I'd pass on results just so others can see the sort of effects that can be achieved.

The first and second are ITR shots (the first added to my portfolio, the 2nd you have seen), the rest are the result of various camera movements. All non-ITR shots were taken in around a 1/4sec exposure.

Take out of it what you will, just sharing to prompt ideas and discussion.

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7 Comments

I much prefer your #2 and secondarily the last one.

Thanks Charles, it's great to have your feedback.

Nice shots !

Is that a 'zoom burst' on #3 ;-) ? looks a bit aggressive on a tree, I think.
#5 has a painterly look that I really like.
my top three is #5, #6 and #2 in that order.

Yeah, #3 is a zoom burst as you suggest. I was actually trying to be subtle with the effect but as you know the result is extremely variable.
It's interesting to hear that you prefer the more abstract images in the series - I like these myself and was wondering how they would go down.

This was a good idea to post the different effects that can be achieved. They're great examples to study and try to figure out the process you used. How did you create the 5th one? It would make lovely wall art. The first one definitely works for your portfolio. My favorite part of that photo is the trunk and around the bottom of the tree.

Thanks for the feedback Jennifer.

#5 and #6 are the result of basically opening the shutter long enough to get a basic imprint of the tree on the sensor, then using a quick wrist action to wave the camera around.
As you can imagine results of this technique can be extremely variable, so it's a matter of just experimenting and seeing what comes out of the mix.

This is a basic technique I learned from Andy Gray (https://andrewsgray.photography/) who creates wonderful composites replicating the style of the painter JW Turner.

Andy has a very active YouTube channel if interested in learning his techniques. Here's one video where he briefly explains his technique - https://youtu.be/2IHTbPx-0pA

It is pleasing to see you and others drawn to #5. As stated with Ian it is an image that I was immediately drawn to.

Thanks for the links! I subscribed to Andy's channel and enjoyed the 5 tips for ICM Photography link. Always appreciate the information you share.