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Canon DSLR Challenge | all galleries >> Challenge 73: Structure(s) (host: David Willis) >> Challenge 73: Eligible > Bench*
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02-AUG-2006 Max Wheaton

Bench*

Cokin G2, graduated nd 8 filter angled to edge of water. I shot this one about 1 hour before sunrise, used a street light to light the bench. I opted to go with the cameras Auto WB rather than convert it to Tungston which really cooled things down, I preferred the warmer look as it compliments the sunrise although the water was a terrific blue in the Tungston version, the warmer is closest to the actual scene. What attracted me was 2 dominate colours in a variety of shades. To me it represents that the majority of natures shows are unattended, unseen.

Canon EOS 10D
1/2s f/3.5 at 28.0mm iso200 full exif

other sizes: small medium original auto
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Guest 09-Aug-2006 21:21
I tend to agree that, compositionally this is a great shot, but the foreground color is unnatural. I'd prefer to see a blended exposure, where the image is processed as is for the water/sky (shoreline up) then processed again (separately) for the land portion. Regardless, 'tis a beautiful scene. :)
jnconradie03-Aug-2006 04:55
Max, thank for the detailed explanation and you certainly put in a special effort to get this shot made. If I may offer a small comment from my side: the one aspect that distracts for me from the overall composition is the upper edge of the bench which is just about exactly aligned with the water/sand dividing line. To me this makes the bench "merge" with the sand too much. I wondered if it would not have worked better if the bench was more strongly contrasted against the blue of the water, i.e if the shot had been done from a lower point-of-view? Just wondering... Regards ~jnconradie
Canon DSLR Challenge03-Aug-2006 04:31
Hmmm...your explanation makes me appreciate the thought and creativity required to create this image, but the image doesn't work well for me. The composition is excellent, I especially like the rock complementing the bench, and the scene is interesting. However, the red foreground feels harsh and unnatural. Its contrast to the natural shades of the water and sky is striking, but looks too manufactured. It's a matter of taste really because this is a well-constructed image - I just prefer more natural-looking images. - bee1000