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through_the_lens | all galleries >> Galleries >> Michael Edwards, USA > Spoils of War
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28-NOV-2010 Michael Edwards

Spoils of War

Shiloh, Tennessee

Life IS black-and-white.

Leica MP ,Leica Summilux 35/1.4,Kodak TMAX 400
1/125 second at f5.6 full exif

other sizes: small medium large original auto
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Steve Mockford01-Dec-2010 00:24
I find that these images have real emotional impact. We visited many of the world war I graveyards in Europe last year and they had the same effect. Very nicely done Michael.
Frank Kavanagh Photography30-Nov-2010 20:35
When I see images like this, it always makes me think of what these men and women
sacrificed at that time in history. Some wanted to be there, some did not.
A very haunting and beautiful image Michael, as others have said the B&W works perfectly.
Michael Edwards30-Nov-2010 17:48
You're ON, Jeff.
I'll let you know...
stoge30-Nov-2010 17:45
If you go to Antietam, I'm open for a personal tour. There's also going to be an aniversary battle there.
I've only been through Gettysburg on bicycle a couple of times.
Terry_O30-Nov-2010 17:41
This is such a powerful reminder of the waste not only of civil wars but of all wars.
I agree, the b&w treatment is perfect.
Michael Edwards30-Nov-2010 15:20
Lennart:
Yes it is 150 years.
There will be a major commemoration of this particular horrible chapter in early April, 2012, and about 10,000 uniformed "re-inactors" will be there.
I plan to be there, camera in hand.
Cindy:
Many thanks. You "get it" regarding this image,but, then, you usually do.
Bob:Gettysburg and Antietam are high on my list.
Going to do Vicksburg first, since it is closer. I am fascinated by a period of such utter waste, ignorance and self-destructive loss. God grant we never see such stupidity again...
Cindy Flood30-Nov-2010 15:06
This is a very sobering shot. Once again, color would only detract from the impact that the photo makes. Black and white was the perfect choice and your framing is excellent.
Guest 30-Nov-2010 14:13
I find these shots of military cemeteries to be very
powerful, haunting and humbling, but nothing like the
experience of visiting in person. The only civil war
cemetery I have been to is Gettysburg and I will always
remember the experience. Thanks for sharing this fine
image.
Lennart Waara30-Nov-2010 13:33
Michael, this is a moving picture captyuringa part of your countrys most agonizing history! Is it150 year Anniversary of the outbreak of the Civil War next year? You are preparing with great photos for that!
Michael Edwards30-Nov-2010 11:36
Hal, the small markers are without names as you suggest.
This cemetery is built around US Grant's headquarters, so it likely was an area where the supporting physicians were stationed. The site of the most intense fighting, while not here, are only 1-2 miles from here. Since Grant was this close to the river, had the Confederates been successful on day one (5 April 1862) Grant would have been caught between the opposing army and the Tennessee River, swollen with springtime rain. He would have had to surrender. The men who fought and held out at "The Hornet's Nest" prevented this. I will photograph that area over the next month.
hal 30-Nov-2010 09:59
This is a very moving photo Michael. With the landing just below l suppose it's possible
that some of the man died in a battle right here. Chilling thought.
What are the small markers ? Unknown soldiers ? Beautifully photographed.
Michael Edwards30-Nov-2010 04:14
Thanks, Cindi.
You'll notice how the land drops off behind the tree on the right in the background. That is Pittsburg Landing.. You can toss a stone easily into the Tennessee River from where I stood here. Since this morning (in August) was about 83 degrees at 8AM, and about 98% humidity, I was tempted.
Cindi Smith30-Nov-2010 04:02
A beautiful cemetary for our fallen men and women. I love how well maintained it is.