need some c/c on my 1st bw photo

[eyevan]

This my first BW photo on lesson 7 .Im not sure about some things and would like some help.The learning was a little short and i am trying to grasp the concept.Thank you for any and all comments . THANKS:)

If you need bigger version please check out the pic in my gallery (http://www.proudphotography.com/forum/gallery/showimage.php?i=4215&c=3).

http://www.proudphotography.com/forum/gallery/files/1/8/3/6/dsc_2952_thumb.jpg

[julimucca]

Actually, I realy like it! What are your questions about it?

[coffee]

I like the DOF and composition, but the levels are way off. I would check the levels in PS or your editing program of choice, and make sure you have a full range of tones there. The change will be big with this shot.

[LensBaby]

I like it but as Joseph has said the tones are way off. What process did you use? It looks green on my end. It is a very nice photo, and I think you could really make it POP if you adjusted the levels. Did you just do a grayscale conversion? Did you shoot in B&W with your camera? Tell us how you did it.

[eyevan]

ok thats what im talking about.How do i check or change these levels.I basically just took the color out .Is there somer other program i should use ???Also how do you know the levels are right ??is it just sight ??

[laura]

Eyevan, i'm having the same issues with mine. I just don't know how they 'should' look, how do I know its right...

[eyevan]

ok here is another version .Does this level wise look a little better ??I also think this is a great way to learn about subjects ,not just me but others as well.http://www.proudphotography.com/forum/gallery/files/1/8/3/6/dsc_2954.jpg

[coffee]

Here you guys go. It looks like a good quick tutorial.

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1013318/photoshop_tutorial_levels/

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/844935/photoshop_tutorial_levels/

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1374312/levels_in_photoshop_explained/

I think the last link is the best. Let me know if this help.

[owenmorris]

ok here is another version .Does this level wise look a little better ??I also think this is a great way to learn about subjects ,not just me but others as well.http://www.proudphotography.com/forum/gallery/files/1/8/3/6/dsc_2954.jpg


Hi eyevan do you mind if I save your pic and edit it, I'm quite new to photography but I don't think your far off just the tones and sharpness.Let me know if OK and I will post edited version with what I have done.

Owen

[dkippen]

My two cents: I like the concept of the bridge, but I find the trees on the right distracting. The coloring in the second is much better than the first.

[owenmorris]

ok here is another version .Does this level wise look a little better ??I also think this is a great way to learn about subjects ,not just me but others as well.http://www.proudphotography.com/forum/gallery/files/1/8/3/6/dsc_2954.jpg


Hi eyevan as per pm I edited a little in photoshop as I said still new to photography myself but this is what I came up with.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3517/3176779794_9cc5d7b835_o.jpg

All I did is convert to b&w then adjust levels a little and added a touch of sharpness.Wont be to everyones liking.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3419/3176841746_53a9e04346_o.jpg

This one is toned mapped with Dynamic Photo HDR but obviously only used the single image you had.

[bwpics]

Eyevan, i'm having the same issues with mine. I just don't know how they 'should' look, how do I know its right...


First of all, you posted a third version on your site correct? http://www.proudphotography.com/forum/gallery/showimage.php?i=4227&c=3

The third one really show the details of the photo along with cropping the image in such a way that it provides a a natural frame to the picture for me.

Second, with regards to "how" you are supposed to know its right, I would like to say this...When you create something it only matters what you think in the end. If the only person you are trying to please is yourself then you need no guidance on this issue. However, if you are trying to create something that is not only pleasing to you, but to others, there are certain ideas and rules with photography most people follow to be considered "general". For example, most photos should have a some kind of focal point that is clear to both the viewer and the photographer.

In the photo you originally provided, it seems that the whole landscape is your focal point as my eye wants to wonder around the whole photo. There are equal spaces used for the trees, water and bridge. This (for me) lacks definition with what you are trying to say. Though it is an OK picture. A lot of subject matter to deal with.

The third photo revision makes it clear (to me at least) that you wanted the bridge to be the focal point along with the small details being pulled through with the snow. This photo told a story to me whereas the first did not.

Usually if I look at my photos after a few days and it still "speaks" to me, then I know I can't be that far off from achieving me goal.

Keep in mind, I am super beginner with my photography so all that I am saying may be hog wash. I just started my B&W site (which I am not ready to reveal fully yet) at bwpics.com. I think I am ready for criticism to come my way. Take a look and you tell me if I am full of it. :)

I can't wait to see what you produce next.

Good Luck.

[eyevan]

thanks for all the comments.Owen if you look at my number 3 in my gallery it looks the same as yours but i cropped out the trees on thee right .I m getting it.Bw pics thanks for all your input ,it helps me alot .I fforget sometimes and its nice to have some eyes .