Arhuaco Boy, My Original Vision

I posted a cropped version of this recently and in color. As a matter of

fact if you click the right arrow on this image, the cropped color image

will come up. The cropped color version was not my initial

previsualization when I took the photograph. This was. I like it much

better. I think what caused me to crop it was all of the detail that would

be lost in a small on line presentation in the textures of his skin and

cloths. However, I would never make a small print of this image. It would

be at least 13x19 inches and thus all of that detail would be there in all

its glory. Comments Appreciated.

Excellent contrast and background, great story. 

A really beautiful shot with very nice lighting, Paul!

The cropped version is a useful reference just to see the inticate detail of the image. But I would agree this larger version is the full story and shouldn't be compromised with a crop.

There is a charm and innocence conveyed in full version that just doesn't seem present in the cropped image.

A delightful image but with a slightly disturbing element when viewing the apparent cuts and abrasions on the boy.

Compliments & Best Regards

Alf

Thanks all for the complements. Alf, I remember noticing his forearm almost immediately. However, I am guessing it had more to do with gathering the fruit than anything more sinister. These are gentle people. My wife has some images of a boy a little younger than this one in a tree with a parrot on his shoulder gathering fruit.  I am guessing he was scratched up a bit as well. I seems to be the boys under 15 that get to climb the trees. I remember seeing similar scratching on younger boys in rural Cambodia who's responsibility it was to gather containers full of palm sap high above the ground in palm trees.

the colored version doesnt hold a candle to the black and white version. there is so much more detail and contrast and story in this version. i dont believe in cropping unless it is absolutely necessary.. i am glad you shared this version with us Paul.

Thank you Stephanie C. I try not to crop as well. I come from years as a large format photographer (over ten traveling the world with only my 4x5). I would spend and average of 30 to 45 minutes taking one photograph. You tend to have things where you want them before tripping the shutter. I think because of those years I still don't take that many images when I am on the prowl. Its just not in my nature. There was no such thing as taking a candid shot and the intense stares into the camera by my subjects are all but gone, and I miss that a bit. Can't go back though. I definately do not miss, missing shots while setting up. 

Many Thanks for the explanation relating to the cuts on the boys arm. On reflection this may also explain the tattered and torn garments too.

just another observation.  You describe them as "Gentle People" and somehow that is reflected in the pose of the boy too.

Cheers Paul.

Alf