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Doug, when I use the scratchy effect, I copy a layer, treat it with the filter, usually Displace with a suitable texture, then use transparency on that copied/filtered layer, and brush away areas I wish to remain unaffected with the eraser (you could also use quick mask to get a selection then delete or inverse/delete). Transparency on the eraser is useful for a fading effect, so you could have the eyes sharp, or the whole face clear of filter. Alternatively you might want the effect all over to bring a consistency, but weaker in some areas. As you probably already know, there are umpteen ways to get the same result in PS, according to the user, but this would be one of my ways as an example.

 

This picture though, I would not say was expertly executed, but I hasten to add that I make that judgement based on my own personal tastes. For example I would not like the effect on her cheek and nose, and as somebody else pointed out the neck looks washed out, also fuzzy on the edge like it's lost an area.

In the original version doesn't anyone see that lovely repetition of the cloud, in the spray? So well positioned, I wouldn't change it for love or money.

ps I don't like the wider crop - I prefer Brett's original. Sorry Analytical Guys. The portrait tighter crop contains (to you may be 'constrains') all that action and energy ... perfect for my eyes :)

Apologies for not reading the whole discussion, I just want to leave my compliments.

 

I find this photo aesthetically pleasing, well composed and well exposed - but most of all energising and inspiring.

 

You can see the energy!

 

Nature at it's best ...

 

A very well executed photo - it really does make me wish I was there ... Congratulations.

Beautiful light, subject, composition, sharpness and overall clarity. Well done!

 

Note to Naseer: why is your photo posted? Also the spelling is "possessive" not "posessive".

Hi Doug. Congrats with POW on your photo. I like it indeed (very atmospheric and earthy), but really I prefer this one . It's kinda 'Naughty-Nicholson-Like'. Some pictures are not easy to describe or verbalise the interpretation, or express the feelings evoked. That's so often why we use visual imagery to speak .... this series does it so well. No words or explanations necessary (as so many of your pictures they speak for themselves). No way intended to be a cop-out I assure you.....

I like this one too. It shows off the unusual design very well, but I have to say that set in the trees is highly appealing - like a little hideaway recluse and refuge. Would make a lovely home-conversion :)

I luuuuuurve churches! This is my fave from your collection here so far. The sky sets it off, the tones look spot on, the angle is great (I'm not so keen on the face-on shots - they look a little flat).

 

Come to England for churches, you won't be bored! Oh.... and when do we get to see the interiors??

 

Glad you're still shooting Doug and hope the Carpel Tunnel improves. Can't you have an op to loosen the tendons?

 

 

 

 

After a week of watching the forum I still don't know if Evgeny is the Body Painter, Photographer, or both...

Evgeny, are you the photographer, body-painter, or both? It's wonderful work.

An excellent example of a whole set of skills used together. Congratulations, it all comes together. I adore the colours, the texture, the lighting, the creativity.

This is a picture that made me look more than twice. "What is it?" "Where is it?" "How was

this captured?" Was it paper with ink laid down? Was it a photo of a previous artwork? Was

it a snapshot of a worn-out shelter, or a macro of a leather boot?

 

Once I realised what it was, I loved it even more. Because it made me wonder... and

because it was shot with concious thought, beautifully.

I agree, With shallow dof you have placed focus in an alternative place to the *usual* standard. Very soft, gentle and suiting to the subject. The sepia tone is also in keeping.

I really enjoy this picture for many reasons; the square format, the placement of the flower heads in the frame, the fall-off in dof, the muted and harmonious colour combination, and the intricate detail in the flowers themselves.

 

Congrats on a beautiful and unique image.

Hi Don. A stunning scenic if I might say! The light is glorious and uplifting. Regarding composition, I am not sure the green grass in the fore lends much to the picture, but the red rock looks great as a lead in feature. A very magical capture indeed. Perhaps a higher level for the cam may have eradicated the obstructive grass.

One year later! I can only appreciate the political message as already illustrated by others here, but photographically (or should I say 'illustratively') there are several problems.

 

First is the inconsistency in lighting which is almost always evident in photographic montages. Aesthetically it spoils it for me to appreciate.

 

Secondly, although the composition is balanced thoughtfully (weight-wise), it does not blend (ie parts into the whole). Cut out faces coming out of the trees (again lighting is inconsistent in these placements) does not seem fitting. They are floating and not grounded (both literally and sanity wise) which makes me uneasy - perhaps a metaphorical interpretation - but none of these characters are known for their natural or spiritual leanings to be depicted in sunlight and trees.

 

The gravestones suit, and the strength of their personalities, but trees and nature, lighting etc, does not meld well, and certainly does not go thematically or conceptially.

 

Just one view ....

 

Best wishes.

Blago, I adore the energy here. This is a natural and vibrant shot (hard to achieve in B&W) ...

 

... and where have you been lately? I have not been around much myself but when I revisit PN now and again I see many PN originals have vanished!

Perhaps a cliche comment, but this is ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS. Great composition and natural capture. The flash is a little harsh but it makes the frog stand out wonderfully and he has great catchlights in his eyes. Well done.

My critique is DON'T CHANGE ANYTHING!!

 

This one really shines because each person is part of the group, and still interacting individually with the camera too. But more than that, you as a photographer have captured and element of true personality in each person. An achievement in portraiture for one person/one shot, but this is a group x4 portraits in one and still so natural.

 

Beautiful beautiful work.

 

ps Thanks to whoever's link I followed that brought me here.

You obviously have your camera on you at all times! Superb composition and exposure.

Great critique Mona! Both positive and contructive. I especially liked your explanation on 'high key', a term we often use but don't really understand what is meant or how it is achieved. Interesting reading and insights.

As David Blair mentions, the shadows don't concur with what I would expect from real high key lighting techniques. Also like others here, I do not find any originality in the pose or treatment.

 

The portfolio does have several 'pretty pictures' but for me they lack depth, originality, but most of all a sense of naturalness.

 

For my taste Marketa's work is more 'artificial' than 'art'. I would like to see Marketa experiment with different ideas, and interact more with the models, perhaps capturing some photos outside of the posing session when the models are more relaxed, revealing true aspects of their personality.

An admirable result which shows a skilled play with light.

Wonderful clarity of light and beautiful soft colours with intricate details. The composition and dof add extra appeal.

Sorry for the late response Ilia, but I must congratulate you on one of the most outstanding nature shots I ever had the priviledge to enjoy. I didn't read the thread above, and my comment will only state the obvious, but the kingfisher is such a special bird to capture, and the fish with the wonderful angle and expression with mouth open, also leave me open-mouthed ...

 

Totally inspirational and exceptionally well-captured photograph. I am in awe. How much is an original print?