>>> challenge 17 - comments and critiques thread << [Sitemap]

ginger_55

Jul-13-2004, 09:11 PM

I am sorry I was kind of abrupt re your boat photo, it is a nice photo. I read Andy's suggestion which was a good one.

I have another set thing I do, like tonight, when I wanted to get things out kind of fast, and it seems to really work. I asked someone else how he or she, don't remember, did something. This is the drill, and it might be more comfortable for you. You could try the curves and this.

Go to levels first, click on automatic or whatever it is called, see what comes up. If you like it, keep it, if not cancel. You can also move the little things in from each end, one makes the photo darker and one makes it lighter, and there is one in the center for "punch". Probably middle tones, but moving it a bit to the right will sometimes give a picture punch, it also makes it darker so if it looks good, fine, if not put it back in the middle. (I have been doing it on PS 7, I have Elements, I know that levels is a bit different on Elements, but I really don't have time until tomorrow to check it out.). You can try it, anything you don't like just put back.

Next go to hue/saturation, try increasing the saturation. See what that does.

Then go to contrast/brightness, and try increasing the contrast.

I usually do all three. I eyeball it to get what I want.

So it is Levels, then hue/saturation, then brightness/contrast.

You are looking to work levels, increase the saturation, then increase the contrast. If anything doesn't look good, just put it back.

In this business, nothing is set in stone. Don't forget to copy your photo before you start working on it. Also I rename every photo, so I always have the original. I sometimes just add a number like 2 on the end. That is a new name as far as photoshop is concerned. I keep numbering for every photo I want to keep, or every step I think might be the final step, but I want to check something. I am paranoid about losing a good photo. Smile

ginger

Don't let trouble find you, it finds you, it makes you.........

gypsy77360

Jul-13-2004, 09:46 PM

Did the "skeeters" getcha ? :rofl
Seriously , have been too busy with life's small diversions to devote any quality photo time.....will try to capture some reflections...

gubbs

Jul-13-2004, 11:42 PM

OK. Its about time for a picture in this thread. It's been up over 6 hrs. Oh well, here goes.

ISO-400 F/8 1/10s 210mm 7/12/04 @ 8:29pm

Comments encouraged/welcome/appreciated.

"Done Fishin' "
http://tmlphoto.smugmug.com/photos/6120478-Th.jpg

Lovely reflection, wondered what it would look like cropped down to just above the stern of the actual boat

gubbs

Jul-13-2004, 11:45 PM

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6127831-Th.jpg

MIP on smugmug so I hope this is the rainbow reflection????

I think this is lovely ginger!

tmlphoto

Jul-14-2004, 05:46 AM

Many thanks for the feedback. I'll try and do some work on it tonight. I like your #1 Ginger. What do you think about a verticle crop?

ginger_55

Jul-14-2004, 06:55 AM

Many thanks for the feedback. I'll try and do some work on it tonight. I like your #1 Ginger. What do you think about a verticle crop?_____________________________

Hi Thomas, your picture is much improved, good going. Good photo.

No, I don't want a vertical crop as I want to show the context of the event, however I do have some vertical crops will put one or two up. I think I do anyway. Also re a vertical crop on that particular photo, I actually got two different shades of light in the sky, and in the reflection from the bow and sky. It is lighter on the right side, I thought that was a more dramatic effect than just the rainbow, so that is why I picked that particular one to work on.

ginger

That photo was so hard to get, I couldn't see out of my glasses, so that made things worse, they were wet from the rain.......... I had to wait and beg the rainbow to make a reflection, I mean the rainbow itself was a joy for me, but I knew for the Challenge I needed a reflection and then I had to expose it correctly. I am so tired right now. I did not make many vertical crops using the sky because the reflection was the main event, I did not want to emphasize the sky that much.

I guess everything is in my subject line. My worries re the photo. I am concerned about the rainbow ending in the center, but I did not want to reduce the picture at all by cropping.

ginger

Sandy

Jul-14-2004, 08:04 AM

Beautiful marsh photo Ginger, so calm and peaceful, especially with the rainbow. My only suggestion is to deepen the colors a bit with curves.

lynnesite

Jul-14-2004, 08:09 AM

Ginger, it seems you have an abundance of inspirational vistas, of which I'm envious! Your entered shot is quite a contender, great stuff!

Lynne :clap

Shakey

Jul-14-2004, 08:17 AM

Ginger, it seems you have an abundance of inspirational vistas, of which I'm envious! Your entered shot is quite a contender, great stuff!

Lynne :clapI second that ,nice shot Ginger!

Nit Pick Warning!
Although not part of the picture the framing is nice. However where you put "Photography by ginger" ,it is to big and over runs the matting to the frame. Such a fine photo needs only that correction to more enhance its exquisiteness.

Tim

SeeMoon

Jul-14-2004, 08:58 AM

I would like to know what you think of this one; it's the airport building in Kuala Lumpur. That girl in the middle in the funny outfit is me.. :D

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6138783-L.jpg

wxwax

Jul-14-2004, 09:09 AM

SeeMoon

Jul-14-2004, 09:14 AM

Seemoon, that's a very interesting shot. Tons of detail, very informative reflection. You might want to correct the horizon, it looks like it's slightly off. For some reason, that I'm still trying to articulate, the shot doesn't get me. I want it to, because it captures a big and revealing reflection, and is technically very good. :scratch

I'm so happy i put it in this thread, because i had the same feeling, but don't know why.. Maybe it's because there's TOO much to see, so you don't know where to look and just keep searching? Maybe cropping will help? I'm going there tomorrow again and will make a new one; i hope that there will be a plane taking off or something.. thanks for your comment!

wxwax

Jul-14-2004, 09:27 AM

I'm so happy i put it in this thread, because i had the same feeling, but don't know why.. Maybe it's because there's TOO much to see, so you don't know where to look and just keep searching? Maybe cropping will help? I'm going there tomorrow again and will make a new one; i hope that there will be a plane taking off or something.. thanks for your comment!

Excellent! I'm glad you had the same feeling. If I can figure out what would enhance it, I'll be sure to post it. You may be right - it may simply be that there's no single part of the photo that draws the viewer's attention. In terms of composition, it's probably the guy pushing the carts, but he's actually the least interesting visual in the shot. I guess there are pure panoramas that don't have a single point of focus, but perhaps they have a wider expanse than this shot?

I love going back and trying to improve on a shot. It will be very interesting to see where your creativity takes you.

Are you on vacation there? Or is there a Kuala Lumpur in Holland that I never knew about? :D

tmlphoto

Jul-14-2004, 09:35 AM

give it a bit of punch with "curves" ... i tried that and it really improved the look. also, if you are interested, it looks great as b&w too. i'm not saying which would be better. but definitely give it some curves.
I'm beginning to understand the power of curves. Hope this is what you were talking about. I like the B&W also as alluded to. I don't know if all of this trouble was worth it for the shot, but it certainly has been a learning experience. I was able to correct a color cast with lab curves and increase contrast & saturation with the RGB curves. Very powerful stuff.

http://tmlphoto.smugmug.com/photos/6139279-M.jpg
http://tmlphoto.smugmug.com/photos/6139280-M.jpg
Also, Gubbs, how do you like the crop?
I think its time for me to move on to another shot. Thanks for the help.

tmlphoto

Jul-14-2004, 09:46 AM

I would like to know what you think of this one; it's the airport building in Kuala Lumpur. That girl in the middle in the funny outfit is me.. :D

Simone,
How do you like this crop. It gets rid of the distracting part and plays up the refection/ symmetry card.

SeeMoon

Jul-14-2004, 09:47 AM

Excellent! I'm glad you had the same feeling. If I can figure out what would enhance it, I'll be sure to post it. You may be right - it may simply be that there's no single part of the photo that draws the viewer's attention. In terms of composition, it's probably the guy pushing the carts, but he's actually the least interesting visual in the shot. I guess there are pure panoramas that don't have a single point of focus, but perhaps they have a wider expanse than this shot?

I love going back and trying to improve on a shot. It will be very interesting to see where your creativity takes you.

Are you on vacation there? Or is there a Kuala Lumpur in Holland that I never knew about? :D

You can call it a vacation, but i'm actually a cabin attendant for KLM airlines.. :wink Thanks for thinking with me on this one! I might just go back to the escalators i made pics of earlier..lots of reflections there. Tomorrow..

ginger_55

Jul-14-2004, 09:49 AM

I second that ,nice shot Ginger!

Nit Pick Warning!
Although not part of the picture the framing is nice. However where you put "Photography by ginger" ,it is to big and over runs the matting to the frame. Such a fine photo needs only that correction to more enhance its exquisiteness.

Tim
_______________________________

Great. nit pick away.......... I want to make sure I understand what you are saying though. Are you suggesting that only the photography by ginger should be removed, or that all writing should be removed. Or are you suggesting I can leave the frame and the title, and only remove the "signature" part.

Or would you suggest that I cut the size of the frame and have no words on it. I do like a frame, though I know others don't. I make my frames by % on the "canvas" part of the image thing. Right now the white is 9%, I can't print on it any smaller than that, but I could cut down to 7% or even 5% without type.

I want to make sure that I understand, that we are on the same page, so to speak.

Someone suggested that I darken it with curves. I did make a darker version that I could exchange for this one (I just made it with curves). I had everything darker last night, and I cut them back last night. I wanted to maintain the subtlety of the colors in the reflection. Doing anything else seems to detract from that.

I feel that picture is actually a photo of a very fragile event, for me it was anyway, and I preferred the more subtle treatment of everything, though I certainly did add a bit of levels, a bit of saturation, usually and a bit of contrast, just to tweak, anything else felt to me like I was detracting.

Since, while I was struggling with curves, I am not fond of them yet, they are not my strongest thing, but while I was struggling, you all were down here saying nice things with the only suggestion being the type.

So, I think, unless everyone thinks it should be darker, that I will leave the colors in their fragile state.

I have been trying to figure out what to do about the frame thing all of last challenge, so I appreciate your saying something, Tim, I just want to be clear on what you are saying. I do want a small black 1% line around my photos, and I do want some white also, after the black line. I am open to your thoughts, or clarification on what you were thinking, exactly, to improve the framing thing.

ginger

Shakey

Jul-14-2004, 10:16 AM

Ginger what I am saying is that the "Photography by ginger" Font size is to large for the matting that you gave the picture , the lower parts of the "G"s P's and Y's extend past the matting through the drop shadow and into the frame So if you kept it exactly as is except make the font size for photography by ginger one or two sizes smaller.

Therefore keeping the lower parts of the lower case g's p's and y's still within the matting.

Hopefully I am articulating this okay.:D
So my nit pick has nothing to do with the actual photo itself but with how you presented it.

It is like having a gourmet meal that is visually stunning served on a fantastic dinner plate that has a chip on it.:dunno
The only reason I state this is... if you wish to preserve this great photo in this setting I am sure you would like it Perfect.

ginger_55

Jul-14-2004, 10:21 AM

Gotcha, Shakey. Thanks for clarifying. I shall rectify the situation.

Thanks, bunches, ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me

Andy

Jul-14-2004, 10:33 AM

i have mine in a signature brush... it's really easy. \

here's the link (http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1009&message=7101852)

_______________________________

Great. nit pick away.......... I want to make sure I understand what you are saying though. Are you suggesting that only the photography by ginger should be removed, or that all writing should be removed. Or are you suggesting I can leave the frame and the title, and only remove the "signature" part.

Or would you suggest that I cut the size of the frame and have no words on it. I do like a frame, though I know others don't. I make my frames by % on the "canvas" part of the image thing. Right now the white is 9%, I can't print on it any smaller than that, but I could cut down to 7% or even 5% without type.

I want to make sure that I understand, that we are on the same page, so to speak.

Someone suggested that I darken it with curves. I did make a darker version that I could exchange for this one (I just made it with curves). I had everything darker last night, and I cut them back last night. I wanted to maintain the subtlety of the colors in the reflection. Doing anything else seems to detract from that.

I feel that picture is actually a photo of a very fragile event, for me it was anyway, and I preferred the more subtle treatment of everything, though I certainly did add a bit of levels, a bit of saturation, usually and a bit of contrast, just to tweak, anything else felt to me like I was detracting.

Since, while I was struggling with curves, I am not fond of them yet, they are not my strongest thing, but while I was struggling, you all were down here saying nice things with the only suggestion being the type.

So, I think, unless everyone thinks it should be darker, that I will leave the colors in their fragile state.

I have been trying to figure out what to do about the frame thing all of last challenge, so I appreciate your saying something, Tim, I just want to be clear on what you are saying. I do want a small black 1% line around my photos, and I do want some white also, after the black line. I am open to your thoughts, or clarification on what you were thinking, exactly, to improve the framing thing.

ginger

Shakey

Jul-14-2004, 10:36 AM

Bookmarked, thanks O benevolent one.:D :clap

gubbs

Jul-14-2004, 03:42 PM

tmlphoto

Jul-14-2004, 05:18 PM

Had a spare 1/2 hour this evening before my daughters school play (talk about that later) so what do you think.. maybe a bit abstract?

Honestly, Gubbs, these kind of make me dizzy. (Boy, its hard to be critical without sounding like a jerk) Anyway, I know you've got better stuff up your sleeve. Maybe some tighter crops to simplify the compostion, not sure though.

Stan

Jul-14-2004, 05:20 PM

I flooded the garage footings :D

http://stan.smugmug.com/photos/6152517-M.jpg

pathfinder

Jul-14-2004, 08:42 PM

Simone,
How do you like this crop. It gets rid of the distracting part and plays up the refection/ symmetry card.I thought the same thing, that the lower one half of the image did not add anything and was distracting to the reflections above - I would have cropped even the top of the silver door frames too tho. "If an image is not really good, you haven't got close enough yet!" http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gif

gubbs

Jul-14-2004, 11:34 PM

I flooded the garage footings :D

http://stan.smugmug.com/photos/6152517-Th.jpg Stan, that's a bit extreme its just a challenge :D

wxwax

Jul-15-2004, 05:54 AM

Had a spare 1/2 hour this evening before my daughters school play (talk about that later) so what do you think.. maybe a bit abstract?
http://gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6150009-S.jpg

http://gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6149855-S.jpg

Gubbsie, seems to me that what would make the shots better is a focal point for us to look at. Looking at the two shots, I'm not sure where I should look first. Sorta like asking "what's the shot about?" Whaddya think?

gubbs

Jul-15-2004, 06:30 AM

Gubbsie, seems to me that what would make the shots better is a focal point for us to look at. Looking at the two shots, I'm not sure where I should look first. Sorta like asking "what's the shot about?" Whaddya think? Your right,
I look at a picture for the first time and a pattern, a shape, or something (not even sure myself sometimes) appeals to me. Often I come back and look again and realize that its not enough and sometimes I need it pointing out...... Thanks Sid, I've got more coming, so bear with me :D

DoctorIt

Jul-15-2004, 06:38 AM

Nice reflection, looks like there's another boat underwater. It's hard to imagine how the front of the boat got reflected.Yeah, this is really bothering me too...

spockling

Jul-15-2004, 09:16 AM

Here's one I got while visiting the outlaws in Idaho.

spockling

Jul-15-2004, 10:01 AM

Found this while not really looking for it.

Shakey

Jul-15-2004, 10:06 AM

That 2nd one is cool Spockling.

SeeMoon

Jul-15-2004, 10:58 AM

I thought the same thing, that the lower one half of the image did not add anything and was distracting to the reflections above - I would have cropped even the top of the silver door frames too tho. "If an image is not really good, you haven't got close enough yet!" http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gif

Funny; did make the same crop! I've made some more today that i haven't looked at..maybe they're better. Thanks -you both- for the input! :thumb

Sandy

Jul-15-2004, 11:24 AM

ginger_55

Jul-15-2004, 12:39 PM

[QUOTE=Sandy]Well this was a surprise, I was aiming for the cars reflected in the windows as I drove by, but the total reflection of the building is very interesting. The flowers are nice too. These are my first two attempts for this challenge. What do you think?

http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6175983-S.jpg

___________________________

Sandy, I like the building, isn't that kind of surprise nice, smile.
I think that is a lot of the skill of photography, recognizing that
you have a nice surprise. I noticed the building, didn't notice the
cars til you mentioned them.
A very nice picture, I like the colors.

ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me

(Oh, I am having PC problems, so if I am not posting to people, it is because I can't.)

ginger_55

Jul-15-2004, 12:44 PM

Found this while not really looking for it.
You are almost there, Spockling. The first one, with the stones, trees and water?, I don't understand what is the reflection.

The next one I saw the reflection right off, that is the good part, the part I didn't like was that it kind of scared me with the color intensity. I guess maybe it took away from the reflection as I just couldn't get past the blue, smile.

But you are close and have the idea.

ginger

trouble and me
I know there is a Tennessee Ernie Ford about "Trouble being my middle name" or something, maybe I am remembering it wrong.

ginger_55

Jul-15-2004, 12:50 PM

Stan, that's a bit extreme its just a challenge :D
___________________

Stan, you are a real artist! Sometimes we gotta do, what we just gotta do to make the "scene".

I like the picture, I think it was probably worth it. Today a Challenge, tomorrow............ and all because of a flood for good reason.

Ginger

I made a rainbow come to me to reflect. I am a rainbow "whisperer".
Stan, we will change the world in the name of art.

Sandy

Jul-15-2004, 12:56 PM

Thanks for the complement Ginger. I think you are also a skilled photographer.

QUOTE=ginger_55]Well this was a surprise, I was aiming for the cars reflected in the windows as I drove by, but the total reflection of the building is very interesting. The flowers are nice too. These are my first two attempts for this challenge. What do you think?

http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6175983-S.jpg

___________________________

Sandy, I like the building, isn't that kind of surprise nice, smile.
I think that is a lot of the skill of photography, recognizing that
you have a nice surprise. I noticed the building, didn't notice the
cars til you mentioned them.
A very nice picture, I like the colors.

ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me

(Oh, I am having PC problems, so if I am not posting to people, it is because I can't.)

snapapple

Jul-15-2004, 01:11 PM

___________________

I made a rainbow come to me to reflect. I am a rainbow "whisperer".
Stan, we will change the world in the name of art.

A rainbow "wisperer"! Oh, I love it. :lust

tmlphoto

Jul-15-2004, 01:20 PM

Yeah, this is really bothering me too...
How about 4 boats fully reflected? Steep bank!

http://tmlphoto.smugmug.com/photos/6103202-S-1.jpg

snapapple

Jul-15-2004, 01:24 PM

Stan

Jul-15-2004, 01:46 PM

___________________

Stan, you are a real artist! Sometimes we gotta do, what we just gotta do to make the "scene".

I like the picture, I think it was probably worth it. Today a Challenge, tomorrow............ and all because of a flood for good reason.

Ginger

I made a rainbow come to me to reflect. I am a rainbow "whisperer".
Stan, we will change the world in the name of art.

Thanks for the sentiment, unfortunately that's not what my builder thought when he saw what I had done :rofl

Sandy

Jul-15-2004, 01:48 PM

Great shot, I really like it. How convenient to have a flood during the reflections challenge.Stan, that's a bit extreme its just a challenge :D

tmlphoto

Jul-15-2004, 02:04 PM

http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6175983-S.jpg

I like this one as well. The colors and shapes work well together. You might want to play around with some crops to tweak it a bit. The picture might be stronger without the cars actually. Certainly worth playing around with a little.

wxwax

Jul-15-2004, 04:11 PM

Well this was a surprise, I was aiming for the cars reflected in the windows as I drove by, but the total reflection of the building is very interesting. The flowers are nice too. These are my first two attempts for this challenge. What do you think?
http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6175983-S.jpg
http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6175984-S.jpg

Sandy, I like the colors and the reflection of the first one. The thing that might be missing is that what's being reflected might isn't all that interesting. Kinda of a standard building reflecting another standard building. But the light and the idea are great.

I think the flowers shot is further off. The composition isn't quite there, and the lighting is rather flat and harsh. Yikes, that sounds so mean. I'll be sure to post pics so you can jump all over my stuff too!

Sandy

Jul-15-2004, 04:28 PM

Thanks Wxwaxy, that's what the forum is for. I can take it, this is only my first two trys. I'm sure to see something better soon.

Sandy, I like the colors and the reflection of the first one. The thing that might be missing is that what's being reflected might isn't all that interesting. Kinda of a standard building reflecting another standard building. But the light and the idea are great.

I think the flowers shot is further off. The composition isn't quite there, and the lighting is rather flat and harsh. Yikes, that sounds so mean. I'll be sure to post pics so you can jump all over my stuff too!

spockling

Jul-15-2004, 09:14 PM

Here's another try at the same pic.

ginger_55

Jul-16-2004, 03:25 AM

Here's another try at the same pic.
I know the color is toned down, but it doesn't help, one, the blur, or something distracts me, and, two, it doesn't draw me in, it doesn't interest me, nothing is in focus, don't know that it has to be, but that seems to be a factor in your photo. May be an element to think about in this Challenge.

The thing you are doing good is you do have a focus there, an idea........
a center.

I like that. You have a week, or more, to keep looking. If the sun comes out and I can stay awake, I may look around a bit after tennis this AM.

Happy hunting for all.

ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me.

cmr164

Jul-16-2004, 03:50 AM

So does something like this meet the strictures? What do you all think of it?

http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1170VegasStrip.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-16-2004, 04:07 AM

You all appear stuck on the reflection thing. Find windows, or a puddle of water after the rain. Walk around the windows, look to see what it reflects, hoping, of course, that it is not you, unless you want it to be.

What Andy seems to have done, imo, and Spockling is getting there, also the strangely reflecting boats, haha, they have a focus, a center.....

I am certainly not someone to tell anyone what to do. I hope to try windows myself this AM, but not downtown or anywhere. I am lucky at where I am going, but the other night when the storm was coming, I was thinking, "are there night reflections in Barnes and Noble windows?", if there were eithr the reflection, or the reflected would be the "subject".

I am sorry, I have to run, and I don't think I have said this well. Hey, you all could try flooding your, I am not sure what he flooded, but any flood where there is light might work. Stan did it. Ask him.

love you all,
ginger

wxwax

Jul-16-2004, 07:16 AM

Thanks Wxwaxy, that's what the forum is for. I can take it, this is only my first two trys. I'm sure to see something better soon.
:thumb

wxwax

Jul-16-2004, 07:18 AM

[QUOTE=cmr164]So does something like this meet the strictures? What do you all think of it?

:dunno Can't see that pic, even cutting and pasting the link.

EDIT: I see it now, thanks Charles.

DoctorIt

Jul-16-2004, 10:21 AM

Found this while not really looking for it.Hey Spockling: (in reference to the "second" photo of the reflection on a watch, i think) I feel like its needs focus somewhere. From my own tries, I know how hard this with reflections, but I just feel like the whole thing is fuzzy and I don't where to concentrate in the shot. Cool colors for sure. I guess it may be impossible to get that shot again too.

DoctorIt

Jul-16-2004, 10:22 AM

here's an attempt: i was going for the reflection of the driveway gravel, and I got a cool distortion of myself and our house. I love chrome!

http://doctorit.smugmug.com/photos/6203357-M.jpg

i do have a particular thing I was struggling with. the driveway below the bumper is in the original shot, but i upped the shadows (RAW conversion - no layers or anything, i'm loving this "minimal" ps rule) and contrast to kind of make them dark and disappear. do you like or dislike that?

cmr164

Jul-16-2004, 10:47 AM

This is a crop.

http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1237Lion_c.jpg

lynnesite

Jul-16-2004, 10:51 AM

So does something like this meet the strictures? What do you all think of it?

http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1170VegasStrip.jpg

I think it's a really good image nighttime image of the Strip, but "reflections" isn't the primary focus, the brakelights onto the ground. My eye is drawn to the cars as a whole between the lit-up buildings. The theme element needs to be "in your face" like the mirrored boats (which I really love with the curves adjusted).

DoctorIt

Jul-16-2004, 10:53 AM

This is a crop.

like the gold reflections, although have to admit, had a hard time figuring out what it was at first. maybe a little less of a crop?

tmlphoto

Jul-16-2004, 11:01 AM

here's an attempt: i was going for the reflection of the driveway gravel, and I got a cool distortion of myself and our house. I love chrome!

i do have a particular thing I was struggling with. the driveway below the bumper is in the original shot, but i upped the shadows (RAW conversion - no layers or anything, i'm loving this "minimal" ps rule) and contrast to kind of make them dark and disappear. do you like or dislike that?
I like the darkness at the bottom, I think it adds to the abstractness of the shot, which I like. I like the way you look at the texture and curves first, and then only later do you say, "hey, thats a car bumper".

cmr164

Jul-16-2004, 11:10 AM

like the gold reflections, although have to admit, had a hard time figuring out what it was at first. maybe a little less of a crop?
Here is the whole thing. I am happy to receive cropping suggestions.

http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1237LionUncropped.jpg

DoctorIt

Jul-16-2004, 11:18 AM

well, i just don't know what to do with that lion. that blown building makes it tough... and otherwise, i still felt there wasn't enough there. but what do i know.

cmr164

Jul-16-2004, 01:35 PM

well, i just don't know what to do with that lion. that blown building makes it tough... and otherwise, i still felt there wasn't enough there. but what do i know.
Which is how I arrived at the first crop...

Stan

Jul-16-2004, 03:27 PM

[QUOTE=cmr164]This is a crop.

The cropped lion I love, more importantly the sunrise over Vagas is gorgeous and all the better for not opening the window :rofl

Were you in a lift (elevator)? because I think I can see a reflection in the lower right quarter :bow

ginger_55

Jul-16-2004, 04:44 PM

too bad he is just a reflection.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213457-L.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-16-2004, 04:49 PM

so I got him some, I think. Maybe they are coffee cups.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213471-L.jpg

All by ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me.

Comments appreciated, hehe, I am too far away to throw rocks and stones. I can take it anyway..............Yeah Right! Just another Challenge!

Stan

Jul-16-2004, 05:17 PM

ginger_55

Jul-16-2004, 07:47 PM

Snappy, I love your entry to the challenge. You handled the escalators and reflections very well.

I also loved the sunrise, or set, over Vegas. Sorry, my brain has parted ways with me as to who did it. But did want to sayt hat it is a great shot.

ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me

SeeMoon

Jul-17-2004, 01:40 AM

Oh no..Snappy got the escalator-pic! (nice one, by the way!) I went back to that mall to make some more, but now..what to do? :scratch I'll post it anyway here; i went through a lot of rain to make it, haha!

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223431-L.jpg

Another attempt at the airport building here in Kuala Lumpur;

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223432-L.jpg

Sid, please tell me i learned from your comment! :D

And another one; reflection in water on the street

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223430-L.jpg

SeeMoon

Jul-17-2004, 01:48 AM

I forgot to post the one i personally like best :doh (..freakin' time difference..)
Here it is, what do you think?

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223434-L.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 04:29 AM

I forgot to post the one i personally like best :doh (..freakin' time difference..)
Here it is, what do you think?

Seemoon, I really like this last picture, the one I assume is an escalator, and a reflection, all of it?!.

I like Snappy's, too, they are not the same picture........... I would go ahead and enter yours, too, if that is what you wanted.

ginger

not makin no trouble, Sid

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 04:57 AM

I want to make a shot like Andy did a couple of years ago at Christmas time.

Andy, how did you get the ethereal effect of the doll/woman/mannequin/whatever, then at the same time have a substantial effect of the book, or music sheet. The bldg I can imagine. It is the other players I am having trouble with..

Also was the light shining on the window, was it a window? I was taking reflections off of windows and mirrors yesterday. I like what I got. But I still want one like yours.

Time of day, did that play a part for the reflection? I was shooting in sunlight late in the morning, bad time, had just played tennis and didn't go straight home. The thing was the windows all have a large porch around them which is handy when finding some things to reflect, but not always. It was shaded though.

What do you all think of Andy's second example? Andy, would you like to address some of my questions on it?

Here are a couple more at the same place, but I was on the porch shooting into the window, both are reflections into the window. ginger, no trouble here

There were rocking chairs on the porch. When I incorporated them into the picture themselves, with the reflection, I thought things got too busy. So this is the reflection, with a bit of the window on the left.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6225714-L.jpg

This is a shot, into the window, where the focus was to be the beach chairs on the lawn. Two of them...............chairs and photos, I am really trying......I like what I have but it is not the same feel as that shot of Andy's, the second one. Is it a time of day thing, and how did the book get so in focus?

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6225718-L.jpg

and, another try...........

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213464-L.jpg

wxwax

Jul-17-2004, 07:57 AM

I forgot to post the one i personally like best :doh (..freakin' time difference..)
Here it is, what do you think?

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223434-S.jpg

I really like this one, SeeMoon. Just to satisfy myself, I tried raising the contrast a wee bit and slightly changing the crop, but it didn't make a huge difference. It's a strong photo and is really nice.

I wonder if the judges will feel that it strongly enough reflects (little pun, hehe :evil) the theme of the challenge? :dunno

:scratch Dunno about the big window reflection, tho. It's just my opinion, and I think you're a lot closer, but something's still missing. I tried cropping out the column to the left, and that seemed to help the composition. But it still feels like it's missing something magical - and I still wonder if it isn't missing the 'second story.' You know, the first story is the guys with the luggage carts. But what's the secondary theme or story? Again, just my ramblings.

That puddle shot's kinda cool. :D

Sandy

Jul-17-2004, 01:44 PM

How much for that doggie in the window?

http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6238814-L.jpg

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 01:50 PM

How much for that doggie in the window?

http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6238814-S.jpg

Sandy, I really like this one. I think you captured the quality that ginger has been looking for. I'm sorry I can't add any constructive criticism. It looks perfect to me.

Sandy

Jul-17-2004, 02:03 PM

Thanks Snappy...This was taken today at the grand opening of Wells Fargo Bank. They were taking polaroids of people with the dog inside. I was getting frustrated looking for reflections and then, there was the doggy in the window.

Sandy, I really like this one. I think you captured the quality that ginger has been looking for. I'm sorry I can't add any constructive criticism. It looks perfect to me.

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 02:10 PM

[QUOTE=SeeMoon]Oh no..Snappy got the escalator-pic! (nice one, by the way!) I went back to that mall to make some more, but now..what to do? :scratch I'll post it anyway here; i went through a lot of rain to make it, haha!

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223431-S.jpg

Another attempt at the airport building here in Kuala Lumpur;

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223432-S.jpg

I didn't know you were going to do escalators. Gee, they look like they were designed by the same person. Anyway, It's a nice shot. Maybe you should enter it anyway.

I like the second one too. I tried a crop on it. Selected the bright windows on top with the magic wand and increased blues on it. Then did unsharp mask. I think that's allowed.

Now, the three curving escalators, That's a Great Shot! Really! It's the best one of all. The repetition of three is cool and the contrast of the lines and curves. Black and white emphasizes it. Is it a reflection? Or is the reflection the light patterns on it? Not sure. Hmmmm, maybe if we have a lines and curves challenge.... this would be a sure winner. You could take it again I guess. It's such a great shot. It has to be entered in something. :clap :clap :clap

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 02:13 PM

Sandy, with the doggie a big YEAH!!!!
I am sooooo proud and happy, you got one.

I still wish Andy would come on and tell me a bit more about that one photo he did. The second one, the Christmas time one.

But you did do it!!!! I love it!

ginger, smile, big grin

Sandy

Jul-17-2004, 02:19 PM

I forgot to post the one i personally like best :doh (..freakin' time difference..)
Here it is, what do you think?

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223434-L.jpgThis is a really great shot, amazing lines, it's perfect in black and white.

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 02:26 PM

This is a really great shot, amazing lines, it's perfect in black and white.
Yes, IMO, that is the reflection, that is what I thought. If it is, I would enter it SeeMoon, I think it is one of the stronger things you have done.

That is just my opinion.

Two very different escalator shots from two different people.

ginger

(Then I can vote for both of them, LOL)

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 02:29 PM

too bad he is just a reflection.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213457-S.jpg

Gee, I had no idea this was going to be so hard. Good reflections are hard to find. I don't have any kids at home, so I can't do the kid reflected in the toy store window. I decided to go downtown to the harbor area and Seaport Village. They have toy stores and teddy bear stores. I couldn't find any kids near the stores. The reflections were no good anyway. I think it was the time of day. I tried to get the carousel horse reflected in the mirror, but I was too far away and couldn't get inside to get a better angle. Need a better zoom or my old film camera with the good zoom lens. Then I decided to go inside that hotel and there were the escalators! I knew that was the shot. Here are my other tries.
The horse:
http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6238728-M.jpg

The escalators - another view, but reflection is blown out right in the center.

http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6238727-M.jpg

Sandy

Jul-17-2004, 02:45 PM

lynnma

Jul-17-2004, 03:25 PM

this ones from the car, hopefull I will be able to hobble next week and maybe get a better one..

Sandy

Jul-17-2004, 03:25 PM

Thanks for the complement Ginger. I knew you would like it because you have so much love for dogs. Me too! Andy's Christmas photo is an inspiration in reflections. I believe it's just being at the right place and seeing the shot.

Sandy, with the doggie a big YEAH!!!!
I am sooooo proud and happy, you got one.

I still wish Andy would come on and tell me a bit more about that one photo he did. The second one, the Christmas time one.

But you did do it!!!! I love it!

ginger, smile, big grin

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 03:38 PM

Snappy I love merry-go-round horses, and the reflection in the mirror, very colorful. You want try to use a slight correction with RGB curves,to deepen the vibrant colors. Also try cropping it a tad bit a above the horses ear.
Sandy

http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6238728-S.jpg

I passed this one up as a "reflections" possibility, but cropped it and tried to make it acceptable. I could always frame it and use it in a kids room. I tried your suggestions as best I could. I don't have RGB curves on Photoshop Elements, so I had to try something else. I used the selective color adjustments that they have. It worked pretty well. I cropped it again and I really like it a lot better now. Thanks.
http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6242501-M.jpg

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 03:46 PM

[QUOTE=snapapple]Gee, I had no idea this was going to be so hard. Good reflections are hard to find. [QUOTE:]

This one is also from Seaport Village: It's way overlit. The whites are all blown out. It was midday. But, just wanted to show you how desperate I was.

http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6242502-M.jpg

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 03:57 PM

this ones from the car, hopefull I will be able to hobble next week and maybe get a better one..

Glad you're getting out. Reflections are harder to find than we imagined, huh?
Good ones, that is. I could take a picture of myself in the mirror, or my husband shaving. But, it's been tough finding a "contender". That is for us folks who don't get out much. You got a nice one there. Good work.

Sandy

Jul-17-2004, 04:00 PM

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 04:55 PM

Snappy, it seems to me that the most interesting part of the photo is the people on the bridge that are reflected in the water. Try cropping the photo to included just above their heads on top, and in reflection in the water. You may also want to try a black and white, gradient map. On the horse you can go a bit closer to the edge of the mirror.

Sandy

Sandy,
I think I've fixed the horse up pretty good now. I lightened the bottom right and I cropped it a little more. I was afraid to get too close to his nose. I wanted to give him breathing room. I don't know if this is good now or not.

For the people on the bridge, I tried the crop you suggested. It does simplify the shot, but I'm not sure about it. I wonder if the bigger background makes the shot more interesting. I forgot to try the black and white. In the simple composition, that sounds like it would work better. I'll give it a try. I don't have time for uploading now. Have to go make dinner.
Here's what I have now:
http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6244571-M.jpg

http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6244572-M.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 06:22 PM

Glad you're getting out. Reflections are harder to find than we imagined, huh?
Good ones, that is. I could take a picture of myself in the mirror, or my husband shaving. But, it's been tough finding a "contender". That is for us folks who don't get out much. You got a nice one there. Good work.
_____________________________________

OK, this is a thought I had, but I can't afford it, especially since I don't "need" the picture. I used to have old mirrors, but I gave them to my daughter. While I was in the antique store, the thought hit me to buy a mirror. She said she didn't have any "cheap" ones, and she was not nice about it. I actually could go back and buy a not large one for 20.00, but I am resisting. It is certainly a good idea.

If I had the mirror, I would take it around with me, my husband, dogs, nothing, whatever.................... I think it would be a definite possibility.

Another thing I have thought is to think of.............it is hard for me to explain this, but he shot that at Saks, we have a Saks, too, but no big modern bldgs, but we do have bldgs, so the idea is to have a window and try to find one with something that makes an interesting background, have something interesting in the window, and go back at the right time of day if possible.

I have a book, too, and it happens to have a picture of a window, old window with old glass. The frame and house part are white peeling wood, and reflected, yes, in the window, the bottom part, is just the yard, not a very nice yard, but a pretty color. That comes from the lighting conditions, or the time of day. The photographer said it was an accident he found it, but since he did, he goes back whenever the lighting is interesting, or the time of day is right. It is a horizontal, I would not have thought a horizontal would work, but it could.

I cannot use my townhouse for anything, nothing, it is not clean enough. My dogs look out the window, but they don't reflect................

Anyway, there is a park with an old house, it is not weathered, but all we would need is the right reflection in the window. One thing that makes that reflection so good, the one in my book, is the slightly wavy, or he says bowed, window...................... I could find one. The trick is to get the time of day. Parks close so darn early!

Yes, it is a real handicap not to have kids to photograph. I know, I had two young ones when I was doing this stuff before. They were my models. One instructor said he was not going to give me a lesser grade, but that he wished I would go beyond using my kids, lol.

However, I am kind of teeming with ideas here. That mirror thing could really work in a pinch, and old mirrors are kind of cool.

I still would have hopes of doing the downtown thing and looking for 1) the window with something interesting in it, and 2) that same window would have to reflect something to go with the composition, and I think the lighting might have to be right, so that would restrict me to which ever side of the street early evening ligthing was on.

One thing I would do would be to check out the saks windows, check out the windows of an interesting "new" hotel thing that we have had for about 20 yrs, maybe the book store part of it could reflect "the market", a place I hate, but is historic and would make a good reflection in my part of the world. Got to figure what you have and work with it.

We are big on some very upscale antique stores, the right time of day they would be a definite possibility. And all this is in walking distance of each other. And there is the old large house by the museum, would cost me a bit for a tour, but the windows are old (curving stairway, too.......do you all think I could use that next time?). Problem with that house is I think at this time of year the reflection would be green from foliage.

In that old house the reflection in the yard was yellow, partly as the grass was dead and partly from the light, so light is a player here.

Now, I have a big computer problem,................ does anyone know how to get rid of the Hunt Bar spyware?

I got rid of everything else. This Hunt Bar thing decides what is going to be your home page. So far, I think it has just decided that Comcast is OK, but I have read some horror stories on the internet. I could have porn as my home page. Right now the thing won't let me use AOL for any length of time. I have spent most of the day on this, and instead of looking for pictures, my husband might have to spend all day tomorrow using the phone to Dell and AOL and whoever else.

It is interesting re my ideas, I think we do work with the areas we are used to and know about. I don't think I have been on an escalator in this town.

Smile, ginger

Andy

Jul-17-2004, 06:47 PM

Sandy

Jul-17-2004, 07:12 PM

Good job, you may be right about the bigger background making the shot more interesting. What I do is open both in photoshop and then evaluate which one I like better.

Sandy,
I think I've fixed the horse up pretty good now. I lightened the bottom right and I cropped it a little more. I was afraid to get too close to his nose. I wanted to give him breathing room. I don't know if this is good now or not.

For the people on the bridge, I tried the crop you suggested. I does simplify the shot, but I'm not sure about it. I wonder if the bigger background makes the shot more interesting. I forgot to try the black and white. In the simple composition, that sounds like it would work better. I'll give it a try. I don't have time for uploading now. Have to go make dinner.
Here's what I have now:
http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6244571-M.jpg

http://snapapple.smugmug.com/photos/6244572-M.jpg

snapapple

Jul-17-2004, 08:31 PM

hopefully these'll inspire you. none are by me.

by harry behret, my good friend:

http://mk31.image.pbase.com/u37/stfchallenge/upload/24259939.WinterReflection.jpg

by james langford, another photog friend:
http://mishappa.image.pbase.com/u37/stfchallenge/upload/24277892.TowersofLightRedone.jpg

andy, the links are not showing up on the site. But, I opened the window to reply and I see the links here. I can't click on them here though. Can you fix it? :scratch

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 08:42 PM

All I can see are those stupid red Xs, and since my whole computer, just about, doesn't work, I can't access AOL, well, I am sure glad to hear Snappy say she couldn't see them either.

Oh, you all, too, if worse comes to worse, go to water, calm water, if possible, and look for reflections. I will say that filling the dog bowl with water is not enough to give one the reflections needed. I already tried it the first day.

This computer thing is scary.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 08:52 PM

Not me, same X. Maybe it is X rated.

And no, I have not had a cocktail.

g

tmlphoto

Jul-17-2004, 08:57 PM

Not me, same X. Maybe it is X rated.

And no, I have not had a cocktail.

g
If you right click on the red X, and choose "Properties" you can see the link address. If you highlight this and "copy" you can "paste" it into your address bar of your browser and see the picture if you are really that interested. It is a really neat shot.

wxwax

Jul-17-2004, 09:54 PM

Reflections are harder to find than we imagined, huh?
Good ones, that is. I could take a picture of myself in the mirror, or my husband shaving.

I tried a shot of my wife shaving. My ears are still ringing. I keep telling her to try Golden Gloves. :rofl

I agree, this is a very challenging, uh, challenge. I guess I usually just don't see reflections. I've had a couple of ideas, but would need a model to make them work. In the meantime, here are a few to chew on. Not worth commenting on, they're not very good, just the first day of shooting, hopefully it will get better.

http://wxwax.smugmug.com/photos/6253131-M.jpg

http://wxwax.smugmug.com/photos/6253347-M.jpg

http://wxwax.smugmug.com/photos/6253891-L.jpg

http://wxwax.smugmug.com/photos/6254024-M.jpg

wxwax

Jul-17-2004, 09:59 PM

I tried pasting the link. Can you see it now?

Cutting and pasting made them appear. Those are two marvellous shots. Thanks for sharing them. Now that's what reflections are all about.

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 11:08 PM

I am speechless, why didn't I think of that. Get out in the snow, hang a left to the big city, get me reflections by day and by night, hahahahahha.

And to think I won't have to worry about the a/c breaking. Andy, you rogue, you. I sure feel dumb. You all get on out there in the snow now, you hear me.

Actually, there is a spot where I have seen many evening (they look like night, but they are not), shots by a small lake downtown, the old houses seem to make a good reflection there, I see that picture once a year, at least. Especially when it is like winter. Christmas, that shot is a given.

If I were desperate, I wouldn't tell you all that, but the lake is man made, I just can't get excited about it.

I totally broke AOL, at least, can't access it at all. I even risked talking to someone on the phone about it. I wonder if I can talk my husband into going to Cypress Gardens with me............. or Magnolia gardens. Reflections garanteed, and it is nice there.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-17-2004, 11:26 PM

http://www.raydoan.com/images/2141.jpg

http://www.betterphoto.com/uploads/processed/0017/0404240546251swamp4677eml_t.jpg

The little one, that is Cypress gardens.

I would be pushing my luck with this computer to try to get ahold of the picture I took that is hanging just to my right here, it has the same trees, but yellow spring flowers, instead of lily pads. I don't know about any of these places in the dead of July, but I don't think there is much snow.

ginger (We just have to work with what we have, smile.)
I just assumed that you all know I didn't take these photos, I lifted them off the internet. Geez, smile.

Andy

Jul-18-2004, 03:23 AM

i've finished my comments for the ch 16 winners.

they are here (http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?p=19173#post19173)

shay needs to be whipped a bit, i'm sure he'll finish shortly. :whip :D

Andy

Jul-18-2004, 03:32 AM

anyhow, here are about 200 photos that could inspire you "reflection hunters."

it's a challenge i hosted at dpreview, the sony forum, a while back. eligible gallery is all sony camera images, the exhibition gallery is any camera images.

the gallery is right here (http://www.pbase.com/stfchallenge/challenge_58_reflections_hosted_by_andy)

Andy

Jul-18-2004, 03:38 AM

photo by one of my favorite photographers, mr. elliott erwitt

http://williams.smugmug.com/photos/1654104-L-2.jpg

if you want more of erwitt's work, it's right here (http://www.elliotterwitt.com/entry.html)

ginger_55

Jul-18-2004, 06:17 AM

[QUOTE=andy]photo by one of my favorite photographers, mr. elliott erwitt

http://williams.smugmug.com/photos/1654104-S-2.jpg

__________________________________________________ ______________

Andy, you are a romantic. In the month, or so, I have been a member, I have noticed that............

Andy, anyone, I like my china reflected in the silver......... I really think it is a good shot, tell me what you all think. Here it is again. Maybe I will make it a medium.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213471-M.jpg

I will critique it, defend it, explain my thinking, whatever. Then you all tell me what you were thinking. Since it was not mentioned, I assume that it just didn't do it for anyone. First off, I do not have, like or use good china, or anything resembling this. I like substance. But esthetically, I like the china as it is reflected in the silver tray behind it. I have about 6 shots, or more, so I know what it looks like tighter, and I like this shot best. Enough of the china, no distortion, all is in focus, etc. I even like the little touch of the price tag. The subject of the photo would only invoke feelings, if one were to feel that the use of china like this is from a by gone, less busy, time.

I really like this photo, and I have said why.

ginger

(Andy, I just don't have any lovebirds anywhere..........was that a mirror reflecting the heads, if so, my mirror idea is not so bad, and I might spring for a small one today)

Andy

Jul-18-2004, 06:21 AM

the mirror comment by you ginger is what make me think of the erwitt photo....

teacups - nice find, shows you are observant for these things. i really like "found" reflections. perspective - i think it may even be a better shot from about a foot or two lower, and maybe off to the side.

[QUOTE=andy]photo by one of my favorite photographers, mr. elliott erwitt

http://williams.smugmug.com/photos/1654104-S-2.jpg

__________________________________________________ ______________

Andy, you are a romantic. In the month, or so, I have been a member, I have noticed that............

Andy, anyone, I like my china reflected in the silver......... I really think it is a good shot, tell me what you all think. Here it is again. Maybe I will make it a medium.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213471-S.jpg

I will critique it, defend it, explain my thinking, whatever. Then you all tell me what you were thinking. Since it was not mentioned, I assume that it just didn't do it for anyone. First off, I do not have, like or use good china, or anything resembling this. I like substance. But esthetically, I like the china as it is reflected in the silver tray behind it. I have about 6 shots, or more, so I know what it looks like tighter, and I like this shot best. Enough of the china, no distortion, all is in focus, etc. I even like the little touch of the price tag. The subject of the photo would only invoke feelings, if one were to feel that the use of china like this is from a by gone, less busy, time.

I really like this photo, and I have said why.

ginger

(Andy, I just don't have any lovebirds anywhere..........was that a mirror reflecting the heads, if so, my mirror idea is not so bad, and I might spring for a small one today)

ginger_55

Jul-18-2004, 06:31 AM

Grandmother's Treadle

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213462-L.jpg

My grandmother used a sewing maching with just such a treadle. (My mother did not use a sewing machine, and neither do I). I did spend hours at my grandmother's machine as I was fascinated with the treadle part, and here it is thrown away with the death of her generation. This is reflected in a mirror, not set up, the mirror edge can be seen on your right, looking at the photograph. (In the old days, I might have dodged it a bit, but I think it is fine) The colors are the colors, the hue has not been altered. There is a little play of light there, too.

Comments on this?

g

SeeMoon

Jul-18-2004, 09:00 AM

I really like this one, SeeMoon. Just to satisfy myself, I tried raising the contrast a wee bit and slightly changing the crop, but it didn't make a huge difference. It's a strong photo and is really nice.

I wonder if the judges will feel that it strongly enough reflects (little pun, hehe :evil) the theme of the challenge? :dunno

:scratch Dunno about the big window reflection, tho. It's just my opinion, and I think you're a lot closer, but something's still missing. I tried cropping out the column to the left, and that seemed to help the composition. But it still feels like it's missing something magical - and I still wonder if it isn't missing the 'second story.' You know, the first story is the guys with the luggage carts. But what's the secondary theme or story? Again, just my ramblings.

That puddle shot's kinda cool. :D

Thanks for your comments Sid! I agree on the airport shot; it's a bit better but still not great. I'm satisfied though; still no picture to enter the challenge with, but I went back, tried to make it better, gave it another 'look' and that's what it's all about; had fun!
I don't think that the escalator shot is worth entering the reflection challenge; it's there but certainly not the main thing in the picture.. Well; one week left.. :wink

SeeMoon

Jul-18-2004, 09:08 AM

[QUOTE=SeeMoon]Oh no..Snappy got the escalator-pic! (nice one, by the way!) I went back to that mall to make some more, but now..what to do? :scratch I'll post it anyway here; i went through a lot of rain to make it, haha!

I didn't know you were going to do escalators. Gee, they look like they were designed by the same person. Anyway, It's a nice shot. Maybe you should enter it anyway.

I like the second one too. I tried a crop on it. Selected the bright windows on top with the magic wand and increased blues on it. Then did unsharp mask. I think that's allowed.

Now, the three curving escalators, That's a Great Shot! Really! It's the best one of all. The repetition of three is cool and the contrast of the lines and curves. Black and white emphasizes it. Is it a reflection? Or is the reflection the light patterns on it? Not sure. Hmmmm, maybe if we have a lines and curves challenge.... this would be a sure winner. You could take it again I guess. It's such a great shot. It has to be entered in something. :clap :clap :clap

Thanks for your nice words! It's not a reflection itself, but i was going for those on the side..don't think it's enough though.. And please don't be sorry; it's nice to see we had the same 'eye' for a moment!

ginger_55

Jul-18-2004, 09:15 AM

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6267480-L.jpg

It is about to rain here, a storm. My husband says no way is he going out.
And the computer said I had to put a message here, so this is it.

g

tmlphoto

Jul-18-2004, 09:45 AM

It is about to rain here, a storm. My husband says no way is he going out.
And the computer said I had to put a message here, so this is it.

g
I like the colors and textures Ginger. Also like the frame. Maybe I should give them a try as well.

Here is another boat reflection I'm considering. I still don't think I found that special shot yet. Maybe next week.

"Hanging Boat"
http://tmlphoto.smugmug.com/photos/6267312-L.jpg

Still looking for something reflective.....

Sandy

Jul-18-2004, 12:13 PM

Where does one get the templates for frames? There are some in Photo Impressions, but the frames used here are much nicer.

ginger_55

Jul-18-2004, 12:36 PM

I am using a drop shadow effect that is on Elements, it is not on ps 7, that I know of. I finish the photo in ps 7, then close 7 and open up elements. I put a black line around the image, I like to hold it together that way. I do that under Image, size, to canvas, check the box that says relative, change the inch thing to percent and put 1 for the black line. The box with the colors, fore and background has to have the color to be used on the bottom or the background.
Then I click OK, and I have a black line around the image, then I do the same thing except before I start, I change the background color to white on the color boxes, then I go image to size to canvas, change inches to percent, make sure relative box is checked and this time I put 9 in the the size thing. (That is for the white that is now in the background position.) Then I click OK. and I have a small black line around the image, no one notices probably, and I have larger white "frame" around the image.

I click on windows up at the top, go down to "effects", click on that, a pop down thing comes down I scroll til I get to drop shadow, I click on that and drag it over to the photo, that is kind of neat, I just click in the middle, and I keep my cursor clicked down as I move it over to the image in the middle, and I let go of the mouse then and watch as the drop shadow forms.

Then I put type in, because I like it. Cletus just had a very half hearted tutorial on doing type. I am still a beginner at that, just fooling around, so I will let someone else tell you about that. Maybe someone can do a whole tutorial on it.

On the frame itself, I arrive at the same place others do in an entirely different way, since I have Elements on my computer, as well as photoshop.
I think there is a tutorial somewhere on doing it with layers and ps. That seems too confusing to me, I think it is one thing that Elements does easier, smile.

ginger

snapapple

Jul-18-2004, 12:40 PM

Where does one get the templates for frames? There are some in Photo Impressions, but the frames used here are much nicer.

Sandy,
I have been getting them from Jasc Paint Shop Pro. I only recently got the program as a gift. It's not expensive. It has one button stuff for borders and frames. I just discovered it has curves on an easy one click drop down menue. I separates the image into three black and white layers and cascades them on the screen. One each for Red, Green, and Blue. The problem is, I don't have a clue what to do with them. I'll have to get out the book.

Oh yeah, I just got the book I ordered from Amazon, The Hidden Power of Photoshop Elements 2. Got it in yesterdays mail. Opened it this morning. It has a CD in it that unlocks some tools that were hidden in Elements, including curves. I think it adds some tools too. Anyway, I have a lot of reading to do.

I have made simple frames by using the resize canvas tool and a drop shadow. Andy did a brief tutorial for ginger on that recently. It's in here somewhere. Here..http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1009&message=7101852

ginger_55

Jul-18-2004, 12:47 PM

reflected in the mirror I bought today. She was not in focus, but it was such a good picture of her, I worked with it. It is a true reflection, and I would have submitted it, if I had not had the rainbow. 5 lbs of Alpha............ true alpha, a benevolent ruler, I call her the supervisor. She sleeps with me and always has.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6276052-M.jpg

I made it a medium, I thought, because it is a soft picture of her. I would have ruined it, if I had moved, she would have moved, too.

I might still need to touchup a bit. I just did. She just has her alert expression there that she never has for the camera. I don't care if it is a bit soft. I bought the frame this AM for 25.00. It is not old, but I noticed that it did photograph well when I was at the antique store the other day.

I liked this crop and was working with it. I have developed a sense of humor over the devastation wrought by my other Corgis, before Merry Chapel. And I enjoy the contrast between the havoc of the wall and the dignity of Katie.
This is the photo crop that I did not finish.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6275097-M.jpg

On the one I finished, I lessened the yellow cast a bit.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-18-2004, 02:09 PM

I like the colors and textures Ginger. Also like the frame. Maybe I should give them a try as well.

Here is another boat reflection I'm considering. I still don't think I found that special shot yet. Maybe next week.

"Hanging Boat"

Still looking for something reflective.....
Hi, Thomas, interesting boat. Yes, we all have another week to go on this Challenge, so plugging away is good learning stuff. I did not get out of the neighborhood today, but I still have hopes for an "Andy" photo. I liked his one reflection better than his examples.

On the sled's colors, yes, I like them more every time I look at it. Keeps reminding me of how I think color photography often should be. Unless, of course, it is a softer more neutral mood.

I love bright colors in photography, rarely think of them when I am taking pictures. Those were actually brought out quite a bit in levels and saturation, plus sharpening.

The type is Comic Sans, or something like that. I have always liked that font for just writing, and I thought it would be good with a child's sled.

Thank you for the nice words. I like your boat, but I wouldn't stop yet, either.

Smile, ginger

pathfinder

Jul-18-2004, 09:34 PM

Keeps reminding me of how I think color photography often should be. Unless, of course, it is a softer more neutral mood.

I love bright colors in photography, rarely think of them when I am taking pictures.
Smile, ginger
Alright Ginger - Here is some bright color for you complete with reflections. I am posting this for critque and comments by you and the other viewers. Too bright, too dark, just boring, been done before, or worth working at!!!http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gifhttp://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gifhttp://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/icon10.gif
http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6296885-L.jpg

lynnesite

Jul-18-2004, 10:11 PM

too bad he is just a reflection.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213457-L.jpg

Sorry your horse isn't real. OK, just for grins. Reflection in the way an offspring can echo a parent.

http://www.photo.lynnesite.com/photos/6246764-M.jpg

OK, I'll have to go find a real reflection. :D

Steve Lear

Jul-19-2004, 03:25 AM

I flooded the garage footings :D

http://stan.smugmug.com/photos/6152517-M.jpg
Stan, This is a beauty! I like the colour composition and content.
Any chance of a bit of technical info?

Steve.

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 04:50 AM

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6267480-S.jpg

It is about to rain here, a storm. My husband says no way is he going out.
And the computer said I had to put a message here, so this is it.

g
I really like the colors and the textures but am left hungry for a wider view. Perhaps a crop that is either less tight or maybe straying to the more abstract with a panoramic slice. (some random thoughts)

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 04:55 AM

Alright Ginger - Here is some bright color for you complete with reflections. I am posting this for critque and comments by you and the other viewers. Too bright, too dark, just boring, been done before, or worth working at!!!http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gifhttp://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gifhttp://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/icon10.gif
http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6296885-S.jpg
Could be brighter but then some of the mystery would go. I do not know if you can go back there but one thing that might take it out of the ordinary would be some ripples from one (or three) small pebbles thrown just before shooting. Maybe it wouldn't work but maybe...

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 05:04 AM

I forgot to post the one i personally like best :doh (..freakin' time difference..)
Here it is, what do you think?

http://see-moon.smugmug.com/photos/6223434-S.jpg
Are the light spots on the 3 escalators the reflections? I think that the picture itself is very nicely done but I am not sure if the reflections are enough of a fit to the theme. Maybe to my eye I see it as more a QoL shot. It is a great shot thiugh and I am curious to see it in color.

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 06:27 AM

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 06:37 AM

More 'reflection' shots for comment. I like my Vegas sunrise (in the submissions thread) better than any of these but am certainly open for critques and suggestions. (feel free to dl these to make smaller images for cropping and/or replying)

Buying earrings...
http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1566EarRefl_cs.jpg

Window...
http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1691WinRefl_sat_s.jpg

Java
http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1751javaRefl_s.jpg

Mirror (and yes this is correctly oriented)
http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1771handRefl_s.jpg

Sa-chan
http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1781sachanRefl_cs.jpg

pathfinder

Jul-19-2004, 06:43 AM

Could be brighter but then some of the mystery would go. I do not know if you can go back there but one thing that might take it out of the ordinary would be some ripples from one (or three) small pebbles thrown just before shooting. Maybe it wouldn't work but maybe...I thought about the darkness,but on my monitor at home it is not too dark, altho at work it is borderline. The exposure times were were generally several seconds so I hesitated with ripples as I thought they just might be a blur. I may try this shot again later. I have a different shot with a ripple, but again thought it was too dark because it was backlit.

http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6296882-L.jpg

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 06:57 AM

tmlphoto

Jul-19-2004, 06:59 AM

Stan, This is a beauty! I like the colour composition and content.
Any chance of a bit of technical info?

Steve.Stan, I like it as well. The wooden post on the left bothers me,would consider a slight left crop , otherwise very nice.

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 07:01 AM

Stan, I like it as well. The wooden post on the left bothers me,would consider a slight left crop , otherwise very nice.
and I would like to see a little sky above the chimney extension but it is a very small nit about an excellent shot.

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 07:05 AM

I thought about the darkness,but on my monitor at home it is not too dark, altho at work it is borderline. The exposure times were were generally sevearl seconds so I hesitated with ripples as I thought they just might be a blur. I may try this shot again later. I hava a different shot with a ripple, but again thought it was too dark becasue it was backlit.

http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6296882-S.jpg

I love the composition here. I am not crazy about the other one, don't know why.

I don't think I have a different shot of that sled with more in a horizontal shot. I was disappointed with her darn windows and the reflections which had seemed better before the callenge started.

I like the sunrise shot best, too, so far.

I don't even remember who I am talking to, am just awake a bit, but those are my thoughts off hand.

I do like this shot better than the other one. No way to bring up the color/details? LAB curves?

ginger

Shakey

Jul-19-2004, 07:37 AM

The only reflection I have at this point. I will go hunting for more today if I can.

http://shakey.smugmug.com/photos/6286459-M.jpg

Tim

pathfinder

Jul-19-2004, 07:58 AM

Stan, I like it as well. The wooden post on the left bothers me,would consider a slight left crop , otherwise very nice.
The light is so nice and soft in his driveway full of water - I like it too, but would crop or clone out the wooden post also.

pathfinder

Jul-19-2004, 08:06 AM

I love the composition here. I am not crazy about the other one, don't know why.

I don't think I have a different shot of that sled with more in a horizontal shot. I was disappointed with her darn windows and the reflections which had seemed better before the callenge started.

I like the sunrise shot best, too, so far.

I don't even remember who I am talking to, am just awake a bit, but those are my thoughts off hand.

I do like this shot better than the other one. No way to bring up the color/details? LAB curves?

ginger
I think maybe the reason the composition works here is the preponderance of horizontal lines creates a sense of calm that you do not get with the previous diagonal composition. I am a big fan of diagonals, but for this pastoral scene horizontals may be better as you noted Ginger.

The 2nd bridge picture is back lit and the shooting postion is fully surrounded overhead by trees, so it is hard to balance the lighting. I will go back and shoot in RAW and try to create two versions and then layer them if this does not violate Andy's NO PS line - I am not adding a reflection with PS, just trying to solve exposure challenges maybe. Might even try a flash shot or two.. hmmm. Maybe I should try this shot at sunrise also to avoid the backlit problem entirely. I'll keep working at it. Maybe it is wrothwhile after all.

pathfinder

Jul-19-2004, 08:08 AM

I really like the colors and the textures but am left hungry for a wider view. Perhaps a crop that is either less tight or maybe straying to the more abstract with a panoramic slice. (some random thoughts) http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6267480-S.jpg

I like this a lot - not sure I would change it - I like the tight cropping here and the texture and color. Lovely.http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gif

pathfinder

Jul-19-2004, 08:13 AM

Here are a couple of crops from a shot at a street fair on Saturday. I took several 'reflection' shots and this will be the first for comment. I like my Vegas sunrise (in the submissions thread) better than any of these but am certainly open for critques and suggestions. (feel free to dl these to make smaller images for cropping and/or replying)

http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1564potRefl_cs.jpg

http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1564potRefl_c3_s.jpg
These just strike me as blurred and out of focus - I know that was a consequence of the reflecting surface ( and NOT a technical mistake), but, for me, I do not think it works that well. Too pastel also. More satuaration maybe? Not sure what the center of interest is either - kind of visually confusing to me. I like your later images a little better, but I think your sunrise in Vegas is great and the best by far! Much more dramatic and arresting.

DoctorIt

Jul-19-2004, 08:38 AM

The only reflection I have at this point. I will go hunting for more today if I can.

http://shakey.smugmug.com/photos/6286459-M.jpg

TimI like it. I've had a lot of cool reflections from sunglasses - they give that cool distorted kind of reflection.

pathfinder

Jul-19-2004, 09:03 AM

The only reflection I have at this point. I will go hunting for more today if I can.

http://shakey.smugmug.com/photos/6286459-M.jpg

TimTim - I would crop this a LOT to focus attention on the glasses - and I would lighten the reflection a little and darken the hood quite a bit. Maybe something like this - I may have desaturated the reflection too much, but I did not use the original file - just my two cents worthhttp://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gif

gubbs

Jul-19-2004, 09:05 AM

A couple from Windsor at lunchtime today

http://Gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6313209-L.jpg

http://Gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6313433-L.jpg

gubbs

Jul-19-2004, 09:22 AM

and one more of the bus
http://Gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6313722-L.jpg

Sandy

Jul-19-2004, 10:04 AM

I like the store window very much. It looks good to me just the way it is.

A couple from Windsor at lunchtime today

http://gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6313433-L.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 10:38 AM

Gubbs. I agree with Sandy, I like the store window best, hehe. Maybe it is just because I am chasing the "Andy Christmas" photo, probably his reflection of a lifetime, hehe. Maybe the only one he ever got, hehe. (Maybe that will bring him out of his cave with more info)

I was going out, but got stuck messing with the computer. Did you do that store window at around noon your time? What kind of lighting are you all getting your window reflections?

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 10:40 AM

What else can I say, I like the work you all have been doing, and the previous challenge winner's photo displayed.

I will say that with Lynnesite's horse, we look very classy, indeed.

Also I like the new copy. But would like some brilliant thoughts, or whatever the category was.

ginger

Thanks, all!

gubbs

Jul-19-2004, 10:45 AM

lynnesite

Jul-19-2004, 11:00 AM

A couple from Windsor at lunchtime today

http://Gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6313433-M.jpg

I like the superimposition of the building on the products a lot, Gubbs! Nice composition and exposure. Very appealing.

Lynne

snapapple

Jul-19-2004, 11:10 AM

.........

Andy, anyone, I like my china reflected in the silver......... I really think it is a good shot, tell me what you all think. Here it is again. Maybe I will make it a medium.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6213471-S.jpg

I will critique it, defend it, explain my thinking, whatever. Then you all tell me what you were thinking. Since it was not mentioned, I assume that it just didn't do it for anyone. First off, I do not have, like or use good china, or anything resembling this. I like substance. But esthetically, I like the china as it is reflected in the silver tray behind it. I have about 6 shots, or more, so I know what it looks like tighter, and I like this shot best. Enough of the china, no distortion, all is in focus, etc. I even like the little touch of the price tag. The subject of the photo would only invoke feelings, if one were to feel that the use of china like this is from a by gone, less busy, time.

I really like this photo, and I have said why.

ginger

Ginger,
I like the teacups and tray shot. It really has the "antique" look. The colors are so soft and yellowed. I like the price tag too. It tells the viewer it's an antique shop. I'm sorry I forgot to comment on this before. You are really going above and beyond on this. Your entry is in already and it's really a winner. But, you are stretching yourself. That's great! Who knows, you may come up with an even better shot and then have to make a decision. Good hunting.

tmlphoto

Jul-19-2004, 11:38 AM

and one more of the bus
Hey Gubbs, I like this one the best. I like how the horizontal windows correlate with the horizontal sidewalk scene. Your buses and buildings look quite different than ours. Or should I say Y'alls buses and.......

Stan

Jul-19-2004, 12:00 PM

Stan, This is a beauty! I like the colour composition and content.
Any chance of a bit of technical info?

Steve.

Thanks for the complement

Jpeg format full auto on the 300D (D.Rebel) F4.5, ISO100, Exposure 1/2000 sec focal length 18.0mm.

A hose pipe and about 5mm of water over the concrete pad for my garage floor

SeeMoon

Jul-19-2004, 12:02 PM

and one more of the bus
http://Gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6313722-S.jpg

I like the shop window, but this one as well!!! Like the colors and the benches going the same way as my view into the picture; nice! And hey; i've seen those benches before! :wink

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 12:08 PM

I like the superimposition of the building on the products a lot, Gubbs! Nice composition and exposure. Very appealing.

Lynne
Yes, Lynne, I have already posted that I like that, but I want to post again on it, as it is the photo I have been chasing.

It is not as good as Andy's IMO, but it is as good as I would get, until I reached the magical moment that Andy did. I love the British feeling bldg in the background. I am going downtown now, as it is too late to do anything else, but congrats, Gubbs, I love that photo, best anyway.

Lynne, I did not comment on your reflections, mother and daughter, or whatever sex. I thought it was great. And Andy did say to interpret reflections in different ways, gave the example of old lady showing photo albums to grandchild, or whatever.

Problem is, Lynn, I have been hit before for saying this, but I would stand on my principals and do what I wanted to do, particularly since you are a successful accomplished winner. I don't think the photo would win. I am not sure it would be picked. Now if you could get the same photo from the front, or where it was really obvious of the relationship, physically, in posture, I am sure it would be picked.

I do like it, and I like the idea even more. If you have some water around you could get them to do it next to the water with a reflection, and all bases would be covered.

No, I am not trying to discourage anyone, I am trying to encourage, and I, myself, am trying to stand on what I think. This is an art, subjective.

I think Lynn should enter whatever she wants to, but for goodness sake enter.

More later, if heat and flames, gotta go, am getting heat and flames to get off the computer (from husband).

Gotta, go,
g

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 12:11 PM

Thanks Sandy & Ginger, taken about 13:30, slightly cloudy...
Thanks Gubbs, but 13:30????

I am sorry to be so provincial, but that is something I cannot convert. Just think it is funny.

Could someone translate, will grab the info when I get back.

g

gubbs

Jul-19-2004, 12:17 PM

1:30 pm, I think the clock says 1:05 pm but I'm not sure with the reflection

Stan

Jul-19-2004, 12:19 PM

Stan, I like it as well. The wooden post on the left bothers me,would consider a slight left crop , otherwise very nice.

That will be the door when the wall goes up, I did nothing to the shot just reduced the size in save for web, so unfortunately I cannot regain any more sky without reflooding and taking the photo again, but then with the rain we are getting at the moment it shouldn't matter much :D

Stan

Jul-19-2004, 12:20 PM

Stan, I like it as well. The wooden post on the left bothers me,would consider a slight left crop , otherwise very nice.

Thank you for the interest.
That will be the door when the wall goes up, I did nothing to the shot just reduced the size in save for web, so unfortunately I cannot regain any more sky without reflooding and taking the photo again, but then with the rain we are getting at the moment it shouldn't matter much :D

tmlphoto

Jul-19-2004, 12:20 PM

Thanks Gubbs, but 13:30????

I am sorry to be so provincial, but that is something I cannot convert. Just think it is funny.

Could someone translate, will grab the info when I get back.

g
that should be 1:30 pm in our lingo, ginger.
aka Military time or 24 hr time. 2am = 0200 hrs, 12 noon = 1200 hrs, 5pm=1700hrs etc.

lynnesite

Jul-19-2004, 04:07 PM

Lynne, I did not comment on your reflections, mother and daughter, or whatever sex. I thought it was great. And Andy did say to interpret reflections in different ways, gave the example of old lady showing photo albums to grandchild, or whatever.
<snip>
Problem is, Lynn, I have been hit before for saying this, but I would stand on my principals and do what I wanted to do, particularly since you are a successful accomplished winner. I don't think the photo would win. I am not sure it would be picked. Now if you could get the same photo from the front, or where it was really obvious of the relationship, physically, in posture, I am sure it would be picked.
g

Hey, Ginger, it was just a joke (thought I said it was for fun), never intended to enter it or anything like it. Just an exercise in Thinking Different(ly)!

regards,
Lynne

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 04:08 PM

Ginger,
I like the teacups and tray shot. It really has the "antique" look. The colors are so soft and yellowed. I like the price tag too. It tells the viewer it's an antique shop. I'm sorry I forgot to comment on this before. You are really going above and beyond on this. Your entry is in already and it's really a winner. But, you are stretching yourself. That's great! Who knows, you may come up with an even better shot and then have to make a decision. Good hunting.

I've got more, and I never got beyond the Marina and Colonial Lake. Bill had to get home. But I have more than I need, smile.

And, Gubbs, I still don't have Andy's shot. You are closest, I really like yours. No matter what I would do, I would not get that British architecture. That is a plus for you right there.

I would enter that one, really would. I am never going to get beyond being an outdoor, mostly nature photographer. Don't know what I will do when I turn 65, lol. And that is in November, that is OLD.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 04:11 PM

I do know that some of you were talking about that on another thread the other day.

I am afraid to go to another thread to tell anyone this, as I keep getting notices that you don't exist, or something like that.

Both in the immediate access, and when I try to open anything here.

I know some of this is new, and it looks great. Thought there might be a kink or something.

Going to upload some more pictures for my hard drive.

ginger

Sandy

Jul-19-2004, 05:00 PM

I'm going with the photo of the dog for the challenge, but this reflection of the palm trees is kind of interesting too.

http://sandra.smugmug.com/photos/6330189-L.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 05:22 PM

Is it a bird, or is it a reflection. Would it fit the reflection category. If so, should it be cropped. I can't make myself do it, yet the bird, and the reflection are centered. The color to the left from after a storm and an evening sky is nice, yet the bird has made a path with its beak on the right side, to the center, and I would hate to cut that out.

Also, does anyone know what kind of bird it is?

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6331622-L.jpg

Photography by ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me.

Sandy

Jul-19-2004, 05:49 PM

I think the whole picture is beautiful. I wouldn't crop it. Possibly the bird is a Heron?

Is it a bird, or is it a reflection. Would it fit the reflection category. If so, should it be cropped. I can't make myself do it, yet the bird, and the reflection are centered. The color to the left from after a storm and an evening sky is nice, yet the bird has made a path with its beak on the right side, to the center, and I would hate to cut that out.

Also, does anyone know what kind of bird it is?

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6331622-L.jpg

Photography by ginger

I don't make trouble, trouble makes me.

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 07:00 PM

Thanks, Sandy. No it is not a heron, I don't think. My bookcase with the bird book is blocked by a dog crate.............

But now I have the problem that was predicted, what to enter. I can't decide among mine, how am I going to choose a winner?

I also picked up these. For me the bird is a once in a lifetime thing, that bird, but I like these shots, too. So I am going to put them up, too. Maybe a medium size. I shot them all in a short period of time. Went all around the lake, but my husband was in the car, wanted to get home. He kept saying that even trying was silly, as there was nothing to shoot. Huh, the light changed.

It is Colonial Lake and old houses, I meantioned the other day that it would be easy to shoot, it is not, exactly. But I did alright. Maybe someone would like to buy one for the challenge, LOL. Kidding! They are all my babies, and all fit the criteria, I think.

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6336542-M.jpg

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6336552-M.jpg

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6336554-M.jpg

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6336556-M.jpg

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6336550-M.jpg

This last one might be my favorite..................a rain puddle, the old house, the light, everything came together, but I had to see it. It was not as obvious as the lake. I saw it as I was returning to the car.

I am not taking any more reflections..........too painful to have to choose.

ginger

I guess I do make trouble for myself sometimes.

Sandy

Jul-19-2004, 07:09 PM

Ginger, I think the strongest shot is the second one, below. I also like your rainbow entry. Perhaps it's a Tern.

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6336552-M.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 08:36 PM

Ginger, I think the strongest shot is the second one, below. I also like your rainbow entry. Perhaps it's a Tern.

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6336552-S.jpg

Thanks, Sandy. It is certainly a classic as far as reflections are concerned.
I think I will wait to see what others have to say. I am really not taking any more reflection photos. I seem to be able to get them just by showing up, a phrase I have been using about photography for a long time. I have not been to Colonial Lake since we went to a memorial service for dead relatives in the very early 90s. I ended up buying a candle for my dog who had died, too, and I cried my eyes out.

But the important thing is that I went there today, and pictures rained on me.

I was so sure on the rainbow, hoped it would be picked, did not think it would win, but .................... now I don't know what to do.

Everybody, please chime in here. Rainbow, bird, or Colonial Lake?

ginger

cmr164

Jul-19-2004, 08:44 PM

I was so sure on the rainbow, hoped it would be picked, did not think it would win, but .................... now I don't know what to do.

Everybody, please chime in here. Rainbow, bird, or Colonial Lake?

ginger
#1 Rainbow

#2 bird

#5 Lake

Scale of how I like them.

BTW: I love to play in puddles http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gif

ginger_55

Jul-19-2004, 11:03 PM

that was really neat what you did with the puddle.

Thanks for the rating system. Just for kicks..........

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-L.jpg

gubbs

Jul-19-2004, 11:42 PM

Ginger,
Do you ever sleep, you may be 65 in November but you seem to have so much energy.... :D
The bird is excellent, I think the rainbow still has it but its close. I agree you shouldn't lose the beak trail, you might get away with cropping it slightly though?

SeeMoon

Jul-19-2004, 11:52 PM

that was really neat what you did with the puddle.

Thanks for the rating system. Just for kicks..........

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-S.jpg

Just for kicks???? I love this one!!! :clap

gubbs

Jul-20-2004, 01:45 AM

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-Th.jpg
Just for kicks???? I love this one!!! :clap Me too, Ginger, I'm glad your only allowed one submission....:D

gubbs

Jul-20-2004, 04:44 AM

Took this one on the weekend, I wasn't that keen, but its growing on me, needs a bit of PS but thats not allowed!
http://Gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6315673-M.jpg

cmr164

Jul-20-2004, 04:54 AM

that was really neat what you did with the puddle.

Thanks for the rating system. Just for kicks..........

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-S.jpg Fun isn't it.

Twisting things can always give you a fresh viewpoint and I am pretty sure that rotations are allowed by the rules since they do not actually change the image.

pathfinder

Jul-20-2004, 05:33 AM

Fun isn't it.

.
Charles - I took your advice and added a water kerploosh - still needs debris in water cleaned up, but is this any better? I don't think I will submit it upside down though......http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gif

http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6351790-L.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-20-2004, 05:44 AM

I don't know what a water kerbloosh is, but I like it with the colors and the lines.

It is definitely worth finishing out.

ginger

tmlphoto

Jul-20-2004, 06:02 AM

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-Th.jpg
Me too, Ginger, I'm glad your only allowed one submission....:D
Very nice. Looks like a painting. Cool,very cool.

ginger_55

Jul-20-2004, 06:08 AM

Very nice. Looks like a painting. Cool,very cool.
I am awefully tempted to enter it, as it is nothing if not a reflection. Also there is a bit of interest in the couple walking along. (I guess I should rephrase that and say it is mostly a reflection, as there is at least one part that is "real".)

Anyway, I am completely tempted. I suppose this is a problem some people would envy, the only good part about it for me is that I can stop running all around trying to get an Andy picture. I can't seem to get to an Andy place, and on the way, I am definitely causing myself problems.

I might swap photos just to see how I feel about it.

The dogs woke me up. They did not stay up til 4 AM.

I need to back these photos up today, this computer does nothing but get worse.

ginger

Andy

Jul-20-2004, 08:31 AM

i'm outta here from wed 7/21 thru sunday 7/25. if anybody needs any help, send a pm to sid (wxwax) or fish or any of the other mods.

:wink

ginger_55

Jul-20-2004, 08:53 AM

Took this one on the weekend, I wasn't that keen, but its growing on me, needs a bit of PS but thats not allowed!

Gubb's, I still think that the British window is yours. But if you want to mess with this, I was amazed at what is allowed. Almost everything outside of photoshop.

So, what about levels, my favorite, or curves, everyone else's favorite?

I am not sure but that LAB might be allowed.

I think you can do something with that. I would play, but my computer wouldn't even let me copy that, I have had the blue screen a few minutes ago, am shut out of aol, just managed to get my last CD copied with my photos, hope I got them all. I did not have enough CDs to make more than one copy. And I don't know how to split the folders, the one of the rainbow and marsh was too big, so I kept deleting photos. Had to save most of it.

But only one backup, bothers me. I like to do two. I sure can't take any more pictures til I get more CDs

Anyway, I know I could get some more color and contrast in that photo with levels and saturation. I used to go to contrast, but a book said that was a terrible thing to do, who knows. Sometimes I am forgetting to sharpen, too.
But the levels and saturation, I know those are allowed, and they even have separate colors to work with.

Still like the window.

g

Andy

Jul-20-2004, 08:57 AM

they fall into the standard adjustments category.

Gubb's, I still think that the British window is yours. But if you want to mess with this, I was amazed at what is allowed. Almost everything outside of photoshop.

So, what about levels, my favorite, or curves, everyone else's favorite?

I am not sure but that LAB might be allowed.

I think you can do something with that. I would play, but my computer wouldn't even let me copy that, I have had the blue screen a few minutes ago, am shut out of aol, just managed to get my last CD copied with my photos, hope I got them all. I did not have enough CDs to make more than one copy. And I don't know how to split the folders, the one of the rainbow and marsh was too big, so I kept deleting photos. Had to save most of it.

But only one backup, bothers me. I like to do two. I sure can't take any more pictures til I get more CDs

Anyway, I know I could get some more color and contrast in that photo with levels and saturation. I used to go to contrast, but a book said that was a terrible thing to do, who knows. Sometimes I am forgetting to sharpen, too.
But the levels and saturation, I know those are allowed, and they even have separate colors to work with.

Still like the window.

g

cmr164

Jul-20-2004, 09:21 AM

Charles - I took your advice and added a water kerploosh - still needs debris in water cleaned up, but is this any better? I don't think I will submit it upside down though......http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gif

http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6351790-S.jpg
Have to admit that I was thinking more of concentric ring ripples and of course you are pretty much stuck on the cleaning unless you have a pool sweep as PSing "verboten ist" Good timing on the splash. Was it from a burst?

pathfinder

Jul-20-2004, 11:25 AM

Have to admit that I was thinking more of concentric ring ripples and of course you are pretty much stuck on the cleaning unless you have a pool sweep as PSing "verboten ist" Good timing on the splash. Was it from a burst?
Nope - not a burst - just fortuitous http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gif- I have one with a ripple also - I'll try that and see how it goes.

I got these shortly after sunrise - the previous ones were near sunset - I am learning about he use of light after all. http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gif The light is much better balanced here - I did use fill flash on these also.

ginger_55

Jul-20-2004, 11:41 AM

Nope - not a burst - just fortuitous http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gif- I have one with a ripple also - I'll try that and see how it goes.

I got these shortly after sunrise - the previous ones were near sunset - I am learning about he use of light after all. http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gif The light is much better balanced here - I did use fill flash on these also.
You did a good job with the fill, unless it didn't reach anything. Could have washed out the trees, smile.

On this light/reflection/pathways/whatever thing, I noticed that I feel like I am taking the same picture over and over again. As you said, now we are aware of light. I catch myself thinking, OK, now I have the light, but I have to wait, or find, a reflection.

ginger

I really like your photo

snapapple

Jul-20-2004, 11:48 AM

that was really neat what you did with the puddle.

Thanks for the rating system. Just for kicks..........

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-S.jpg

Oh my doG! Ginger, you're killing me. Look what you've been up to while I was busy working. Just peeked in on my lunch hour, but couldn't help but say something. Yep, you've got a decision make. I knew it would lead to this. :) I love the bird. The reflection is not in the dead center, it's near the bottom. Maybe you could play with a little crop on the left. Not sure. I think I still like the rainbow best, though. But then there's this one too. Soooo beautiful, like a painting. I also like the lake shot with the palm trees. The diagonals of the shore lead my eye in. The palms, repetition, it's got nice balance. I think you'd have a tough time even narrowing it down to three. And then you'd be competing against yourself. What a happy dilemma. I'm so proud of you! What a fine job you've done with this challenge! :clap :encore :clap :clap :clap

Stan

Jul-20-2004, 12:17 PM

Oh my doG! Ginger, you're killing me. Look what you've been up to while I was busy working. Just peeked in on my lunch hour, but couldn't help but say something. Yep, you've got a decision make. I knew it would lead to this. :) I love the bird. The reflection is not in the dead center, it's near the bottom. Maybe you could play with a little crop on the left. Not sure. I think I still like the rainbow best, though. But then there's this one too. Soooo beautiful, like a painting. I also like the lake shot with the palm trees. The diagonals of the shore lead my eye in. The palms, repetition, it's got nice balance. I think you'd have a tough time even narrowing it down to three. And then you'd be competing against yourself. What a happy dilemma. I'm so proud of you! What a fine job you've done with this challenge! :clap :encore :clap :clap :clap

That's beautifully put :thumb

pathfinder

Jul-20-2004, 12:44 PM

You did a good job with the fill, unless it didn't reach anything. Could have washed out the trees, smile.

On this light/reflection/pathways/whatever thing, I noticed that I feel like I am taking the same picture over and over again. As you said, now we are aware of light. I catch myself thinking, OK, now I have the light, but I have to wait, or find, a reflection.

ginger

I really like your photo
I have a few frames with and without the flash so maybe I can tell if it really made a difference. I think it may open up the shadows of the bridge down near the water. If I can see a real difference I will try to post both frames for you to see and comment on.

Thank you for your compliment about my photo - that means a lot to me.

I think your rainbow is lovely. The rest of your reflections ae very nice and professionally done - and I mean this as a real compliment in that they are constructed in a workman like artful manner - - but the rainbow is a capture of a uniquely beautiful light - a light that you cannot just get everyday but that you did capture and record with your camera. Well done Ginger.http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/lickout.gif

snapapple

Jul-20-2004, 01:06 PM

Charles - I took your advice and added a water kerploosh - still needs debris in water cleaned up, but is this any better? I don't think I will submit it upside down though......http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Laughing.gif

http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6351790-S.jpg

Pathfinder, I like this bridge shot a lot. I agree that some circular ripples from a "kerploosh" (splash-for ginger) would be nice. It's got a quiet moody look to it. Nice job on preserving the detail in the dark areas.
:thumb

ginger_55

Jul-20-2004, 02:59 PM

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6375217-L.jpg

There is a double rainbow, I was trying to make that more evident. So I decided to dip my toe into Curves, hate them. I can see the bit of rainbow, the second one, to the left of the first, just barely, but I am concerned about what it did to the grass.

The variation in colors are in the original photo, though most of us think the marsh is green, smile, but I am concerned about the intensity. I asked my Corgi list, a good photographer, but somewhat of a purist, is on there.

So I come back from tennis, to the word, "fake" and the info that the rainbow is no more visible as a double.

I am a little confused as I was reading a mag this AM, and, in an ad, was a photo with the same deep, contrasty, unreal looking colors.

So I am just asking............which do you all like better, this rainbow, or my first one. My first one is still on the Challenge, and Andy posted a small copy of it last night.

What do you all think?

ginger

Andy

Jul-20-2004, 03:22 PM

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6142092-S.jpg

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-S.jpg

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6366544-S.jpg

they're all good ginger. i saw the rainbow, but i hadn't seen the other two.

nice work, girlie!

rutt

Jul-20-2004, 04:55 PM

... but meaningful to me. Shot at the funeral reception of my 100+ year old grandmother about 2 years ago. I couldn't sleep for a couple of nights before and got lost in her bathroom with my camera. This wasn't really a sad death as these things go; she was 100+, at peace, still sharp, ready to go. A spiritual triumph really...

I've been thinking of shooting happier and technically better self portraits for this challenge...

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/1689716-L.jpg

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/1689715-L.jpg

rutt

Jul-20-2004, 05:08 PM

I was in Yellowstone for the last 4 days and couldn't get the #&*$* reflections thing off my mind. So this is just the first one you are likely to see.

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6364971-L.jpg

Sandy

Jul-20-2004, 05:16 PM

Interesting shot with the mirrors in the bathroom. I took a great pnoto of myself at a wedding in the ladies lounge mirror. When you are the photographer, no one is taking photos of you and I really looked nice so I took one of myself. The geyser at yellowtone is great.

... but meaningful to me. Shot at the reception of my 100+ year old grandmother about 2 years ago. I couldn't sleep for a couple of nights before and got lost in her bathroom with my camera. This wasn't really a sad death as these things go; she was 100+, at peace, still sharp, ready to go. A spiritual triumph really...

I've been thinking of shooting happier and technically better portraits for this challenge...

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/1689716-L.jpg

rutt

Jul-21-2004, 02:26 AM

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6385762-L.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 03:19 AM

Very good Beaver pond, Rutt, the reflections are magnificent.

ginger (tennis AM)

Keep up the self portraits, too. I always enjoy those. The problem is that
I rarely use a mirror to take mine, but you could, for now. How about a very casual rogue type, Rutt, or are you not, smile.

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 03:39 AM

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6385762-S.jpg
It is an excellent composition but it didn't quite do it for me. So I took
a look at the full size image here (http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6385762-O.jpg) and it seemed slightly out of focus and
overly sharpened. Since you are dramatically reducing resolution from
8.2mp down to 426kp (800x533) let me suggest not doing any sharpening
until after the reduction. The sub-sampling will tighten up the focus on its
own at least somewhat.

A crop from the full size image is attached.

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 04:13 AM

It is an excellent composition but it didn't quite do it for me. So I took
a look at the full size image here (http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6385762-O.jpg) and it seemed slightly out of focus and
overly sharpened. Since you are dramatically reducing resolution from
8.2mp down to 426kp (800x533) let me suggest not doing any sharpening
until after the reduction. The sub-sampling will tighten up the focus on its
own at least somewhat.

A crop from the full size image is attached.

Charles, I like your composition in the crop, Rutt's photo, it draws me in more, makes me want to be there. But the reflections are diminished.

ginger (what do you think on that?)

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 05:56 AM

Charles, I like your composition in the crop, Rutt's photo, it draws me in more, makes me want to be there. But the reflections are diminished.

ginger (what do you think on that?)
Err... The point of my crop was not a new composition but to show the focus/sharpening that I was discussing. :twitch Mind you I am flattered that you liked my somewhat random composition :smile6

wxwax

Jul-21-2004, 06:40 AM

Hey Rutt, I really like that shot. Think it would pop more if the reflection was more vivid, and the trees had more contrast? Might give the image a greater sense of depth?

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 08:13 AM

I have a question that I posted on the page prior to this re my rainbow photo and a slight change I made.

It is on the page before this one, or just before that, no more than 2 pages back and maybe just one..

Please go look, the newer rainbow is the big one that I posted with my question, and the older one is the small one right below it in Andy's post.

Also the old one is still on the Challenge.

Please,
ginger

rutt

Jul-21-2004, 08:50 AM

8:30 pm

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-L.jpg

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 08:50 AM

they're all good ginger. i saw the rainbow, but i hadn't seen the other two.

nice work, girlie!
Those 3 are pretty amazing aren't they!

And Ginger... on my PB17 screen I think I prefer the 2nd Rainbow even though the doulble is still not that noticeable.

The flipped painting-like reflection is excellent and is still growing on me. You really do have three great shots, with the rainbow ahead by smidgen.

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 08:54 AM

8:30 pm

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-S.jpg
Holy cow John is that a reflection!?! How about you (and Ginger) just skipping this challenge so us poor mortals can even have a chance for the final group. :bow

rutt

Jul-21-2004, 08:54 AM

Another from Yellowstone

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384629-L.jpg

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 08:56 AM

Another from Yellowstone

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384629-S.jpg
Nice shot but the other just blows me away

gubbs

Jul-21-2004, 09:07 AM

8:30 pm

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-Th.jpg
Very dramatic, lovely shot

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 09:09 AM

8:30 pm

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-S.jpg

I love that shot, Rutt. I will leave it to the others to respond if that is QOL or reflection.

ginger (That isn't show is it?)

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 09:11 AM

Nice shot but the other just blows me away
But this one has more reflection, don't you think?

I like to cover myself on that one, and it is one reason I am hesitant on some of mine.

They both blow me away, smile.

g

rutt

Jul-21-2004, 09:13 AM

I love that shot, Rutt. I will leave it to the others to respond if that is QOL or reflection.

ginger (That isn't show is it?)
http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-Th.jpg

Oh, Andy? The sky is reflected in the mud basin and that is why it is the color it is instead of brown. So, in the name of benevolent transparency, is do you think this is on message?

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 09:21 AM

I might go with this...........

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6393421-L.jpg

Gosh the "bow" comes all the way to the bottom. I darkened the foreground grass. (Slow as I am, I just learned how, did it on highlights at 20%) g

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 09:36 AM

I might go with this...........

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6393421-S.jpg

Gosh the "bow" comes all the way to the bottom. I darkened the foreground grass. (Slow as I am, I just learned how, did it on highlights at 20%) g
It is clearly ok to play with levels and saturation but I am not sure
if it is ok to dodge and burn (ie selectively lighten and darken). You
might want to get an opinion from our fearless leader as to the no
PS strictures.

My personal opinion is that you do not need to, as your shots are
spectacular and shouldn't be turned into a PS project.

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 09:38 AM

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-Th.jpg

Oh, Andy? The sky is reflected in the mud basin and that is why it is the color it is instead of brown. So, in the name of benevolent transparency, is do you think this is on message? There is clearly reflection there. The clouds show that and the seemless transition from the mudflat to the full reflection is almost magical. I really think this is a clear fit to the category. And I am still blown away.

snapapple

Jul-21-2004, 09:44 AM

8:30 pm

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-S.jpg

Rutt,
This one has it. That is definitely a reflection of the sky. I saw it immediately. The composition of this one is better. The sky is more dramatic. It really does it for me IMHO. For what it's worth. :D

snapapple

Jul-21-2004, 09:56 AM

I might go with this...........

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6393421-S.jpg

Gosh the "bow" comes all the way to the bottom. I darkened the foreground grass. (Slow as I am, I just learned how, did it on highlights at 20%) g

Ginger,
I think this is good. It doesn't look fake or anything like that. The change is very slight. It does bring out the second rainbow, which I never noticed in the first picture. I think it's OK to darken areas selectively. It's still minor adjustments. It's not "faking it" like many PS changes are. I think this is the best of the three. It is capturing a "moment". So is the bird, but this one has more to see for me and more color. In the bird shot, the sky and water in the background appear streaky or like a lot of horizontal lines on my monitor. It's just not as crisp and clear. It is also a great capture of a moment, but I just like the rainbow better. My opinion, of course. As I said before, all are great work. :clap

rutt

Jul-21-2004, 10:00 AM

gubbs

Jul-21-2004, 10:20 AM

I love that shot, Rutt. I will leave it to the others to respond if that is QOL or reflection.

ginger (That isn't show is it?) The reflections of the clouds in the sea are so strong and dramatic that this has got to be eligible... ginger you could be in trouble here.
again... lovely shot Rutt

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 11:11 AM

It is clearly ok to play with levels and saturation but I am not sure
if it is ok to dodge and burn (ie selectively lighten and darken). You
might want to get an opinion from our fearless leader as to the no
PS strictures.

My personal opinion is that you do not need to, as your shots are
spectacular and shouldn't be turned into a PS project.
Charles, our fearless leader skipped town.

OK, someone tell me if this is OK, to have darkened the folliage at the bottom.
With the rules as open as they are, curves, etc. I figured that as long as we laid off of layers, we were OK.

It is not that important, I like it better this way, just want to know.......

This one has had very little ps, I backed off of curves, never went near layers, etc.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 11:16 AM

Ginger,
I think this is good. It doesn't look fake or anything like that. The change is very slight. It does bring out the second rainbow, which I never noticed in the first picture. I think it's OK to darken areas selectively. It's still minor adjustments. It's not "faking it" like many PS changes are. I think this is the best of the three. It is capturing a "moment". So is the bird, but this one has more to see for me and more color. In the bird shot, the sky and water in the background appear streaky or like a lot of horizontal lines on my monitor. It's just not as crisp and clear. It is also a great capture of a moment, but I just like the rainbow better. My opinion, of course. As I said before, all are great work. :clap

Thanks, Snappy, smile. I, of course, agree with you.
It does not look like a fantasy, does not have a layer of color on top to put color in the sky. I just like it like this, but I can keep this version for me and do it the other way for the Challenge, if necessary.

Snappy, I only have one frame that I revolve my photos in. It is for 16 X 20s, which are expensive. More choices, LOL.
I guess the choice would be between this photograph and the reflected one. This marsh has more meaning to me.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 11:34 AM

I had to type original before the number to get it to show up to upload to smugmug, but this is the original. g

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6398129-L.jpg

tmlphoto

Jul-21-2004, 11:35 AM

Holy cow John is that a reflection!?! How about you (and Ginger) just skipping this challenge so us poor mortals can even have a chance for the final group. :bow
WOW :)

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 11:50 AM

I think Pathfinder has a great bridge, red, reflected. He made the shot, knew the scene, but he went back to make it work for him.

That is really good, all I did was shoot a rainbow....... Exciting for me, but not as creative. I had to kind of "show up" and stay there through the rain, the photography was the easier part.

And he is going to selectively clean up debris in the water.

ginger

Making trouble............

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 02:32 PM

I can't believe that no one is posting. It is not that big a deal with me, I will enter the reflection picture.

Post, or not. I am soooooooo bored.

ginger

DJ-S1

Jul-21-2004, 03:55 PM

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-S.jpg

http://gingersnap.smugmug.com/photos/6346250-S.jpg

http://stan.smugmug.com/photos/6152517-M.jpg

Just catching up to this thread. In my purely layman's opinion, these are the 3 that jumped off the screen when I first saw them, much like Lynne's "sand bath" last time. Great work from everyone!

cmr164

Jul-21-2004, 04:39 PM

Cropped from one of my sunrise reflections

http://www.iisc.com/dgrin/1271LuxEarly_c.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 04:40 PM

Thanks, I love that reflection image, purely, mostly, from an artistic standpoint.

I am proud of myself that I knew to do it, or even considered it. And to catch the people walking, well I am quite proud of that one. From a personal standpoint the rainbow, that marsh, and the experiences I have had there, including the last one, have a lot of meaning for me.

The reflection one is not an area I am fond of. I have seen it photographed quite alot, but never like I did. The only other time I have been there was a memorial for the dead, so my memories are not quite the same as the marsh.

This is an entirely different time of year, I cannot tell anyone how peaceful it was, a few joggers right after the rain, then the dog walkers, finally an elderly couple, too far away to photograph as elderly and then a few other pedestrians. It was so nice I think my husband hated to leave, too. He got out of the car for a few minutes and watched in peace and awe. Not normal for him. He used to live in that area, a little further towards the battery, the end of the peninsula that makes up Charleston.

Thank you for focusing on that photograph, I am very proud of it. I was stretched, as some would say. Not in the printing, I think, with the lighting and all, if I had the pictures, they printed themselves.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-21-2004, 04:43 PM

Cropped from one of my sunrise reflections

WOW,

g

lynnesite

Jul-21-2004, 05:03 PM

The reflections of the clouds in the sea are so strong and dramatic that this has got to be eligible... ginger you could be in trouble here.
again... lovely shot Rutt

I also really like this shot, strong composition, mechanics and compelling colors too. Will be hard to beat.

wxwax

Jul-21-2004, 07:40 PM

Cropped from one of my sunrise reflections

:thumb Very nice shot and crop, cmr. That looks good.

I'm finding this assignment to be tortuous. For some reason my brain doesn't compute reflections. I must pass a million great ones every day, and they just fail to register. Aaaarrgggh. Here's another weak shot, two versions. No comments please, I know it's mediocre, especially compared to some of the good 'uns in this thread. *sigh* :lol3

http://wxwax.smugmug.com/photos/6414768-M.jpg http://wxwax.smugmug.com/photos/6414884-M.jpg

wxwax

Jul-21-2004, 07:43 PM

8:30 pm

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-S.jpg

Outstanding! A home run, rutt.

wxwax

Jul-21-2004, 07:46 PM

So, in the name of benevolent transparency, is do you think this is on message?

Andy's gone for a few days. I say there's no question whatsoever that this is about a reflection. And a mighty fine one at that.

wxwax

Jul-21-2004, 07:48 PM

I might go with this...........

http://gingerSnap.smugmug.com/photos/6393421-S.jpg

Gosh the "bow" comes all the way to the bottom. I darkened the foreground grass. (Slow as I am, I just learned how, did it on highlights at 20%) g

I'll be interested to hear Andy's ruling on dodging and burning, which are age old techniques. But Ginger, could you please walk me through how you did it, because it looks very nice?

snapapple

Jul-21-2004, 08:42 PM

8:30 pm

http://rutt.smugmug.com/photos/6384609-S.jpg

Come on folks, of course it's a reflection! Did you ever see silver mud with clouds in it? That's a wooden walkway across a mud flow. That's one heck of a bright sky reflecting on the wet mud. That's one hell, err uhh, heck of a great shot! What a moment! What a capture! Great job Rutt! :clap :clap :clap :clap

snapapple

Jul-21-2004, 08:51 PM

I'll be interested to hear Andy's ruling on dodging and burning, which are age old techniques. But Ginger, could you please walk me through how you did it, because it looks very nice?

Ginger,
Don't worry about darkening the bushes in the foreground. They don't detract anyway. And I still think it's allowed. You didn't clone in any bushes. The picture is still as you shot it. With just "adjustments" to brightness and color. If they don't think it's allowed, leave them as they were. It's marvelous either way. I great moment! A great shot! Don't get worked up over it. It's a winner! :clap :clap :clap :clap

pathfinder

Jul-21-2004, 09:07 PM

I think Pathfinder has a great bridge, red, reflected. He made the shot, knew the scene, but he went back to make it work for him.

I had to kind of "show up" and stay there through the rain, the photography was the easier part.

And he is going to selectively clean up debris in the water.

ginger

Making trouble............
I have returned Ginger with another try at my bridge..... Different kerploosh in this frame and I have included a tree trunk in the foreground also. Comments and criticisms are greatly appreciated. Does anyone think we need a grey scale like the one on dpreview? Like this??
http://www.dpreview.com/images/grayscale.gif

I like Rutts skyscapes from Yellowstone - they are gorgeous!

http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6417511-L.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-22-2004, 04:06 AM

I'll be interested to hear Andy's ruling on dodging and burning, which are age old techniques. But Ginger, could you please walk me through how you did it, because it looks very nice?Sid, I have said how I did this, I don't know I waited all yesterday, etc. I don't understand the big deal, if I had not said anything I don't think anyone would have noticed. I was just so excited, because I had often wanted to burn something in, but I had found the tool useless, as when I used it I ended up with a dark smudge. Something clicked in me yesterday morning and I tried it on 20% instead of 100%, duh, and it, of course worked.

I don't even see any point, except I would like to get a ruling on this for the principal of the thing. But I am not going to enter it, not as I feel now. I have alienated a bunch of people, and this is how I did it.

I had used curves and sent it to a friend to see what she thought, I also sent it to this list, I think, and had no comments on the curves thing, but my friend wrote back "fake", and I tended to agree. I needed to change the copy on the frame to "Whisper A Rainbow". My other one is still on the Challenge thing, if you want to see the old copy. So I got out my reflections folder, found an unframed, uncurved version of the photo, and I framed it. And I put the type on.

I was staring at it, when I thought, "I wonder what would happen with the burn tool if I put it at a smaller percentage, as in other things we have done". I was just thinking, and the burn tool, to me, is such a small thing, I mean really basic, I had never been able to use it, and I missed it from my darkroom days.

And the grass at the bottom of the photo had always bothered me. So I tried the burn tool randomly picking the number 20%. It worked pretty good. I don't know the size of the brush, it was not large, I only wanted the grass, and it wasn't too tiny. And I don't know anything about brushes, really, there is a lot I don't know, I have mentioned before that I don't understand a hard brush from a soft brush. All I know is that it was the brush tool a little bigger than the smileys, maybe 1 1/2 times the size. Maybe double. I don't know.

The setting was on midtones, or however it is phrased. I used it. And it worked, but the midtones had not really bothered me, so then I tried it on highlights, and it took care of the whole situation, just the grass at the bottom. You can compare the photos yourself, or I can post them together, it is the grass at the bottom, no water.

Then I had messed up on the framing, not perfect, and it bothered me, the type was too big, or something. So I started over with the same picture, this timed I burned in the grass before I framed it, and I only used the highlight setting. Also, when I burned in the grass on the far left, I could see that the brush included some of the water, so I went "backwards" and did one small area on the bottom at the left with a brush a bit smaller than the smileys.

And I framed it. I put it up here, was so excited that I had finally figured out the burn tool that I mentioned it. And right now, to be honest, I don't like that picture very well. I am extremely hurt. At first I wasn't, but as the day went by, no one was posting, no one said another thing......... I mean I was a little annoyed, but it would be stupid, if I were worried about the voting, for me to tick off half the voters. Which is what I did. I thought it was such a small thing, other people were using curves, and I had just used a burn tool.

I might joke about being a troublemaker, but all of a sudden it did not seem funny to me.

I just wanted someone to talk to me.......... kind of. I almost private messaged you, Sid, then I figured that you would come on eventually. And I was, and I am, hurt. I think what I did was infitesimal (sp?) compared to curves. Or going black and white which Andy had suggested re the boat that was first presented on this thread. (I went back to check out the things Andy had said early on when issues were raised, and I read the thing where he was helping with the boat, suggested a few things, including making it a blk and white.)

As to the rest of the photo, I had duplicated that for my husband one evening, just to show how easy it was. It only took 15 minutes, if that. He has no patience in watching me on the computer.

I had cropped it to straighten the horizon. Since I was doing that, I left out the line and rock at the right.

Then I did levels, the options, using the top one, then I moved the middle bar a bit to the right until I liked it, then I nudged it back a bit, a trick of mine to avoid going too far. So that was it with levels.

Then I went to saturation, and I added a bit of saturation.

Then I went to contrast, maybe, that is my normal pattern, but I have stopped, and I don't know that I used it on that picture or not. The reason I have stopped, in general, is something I read that said it was not, generally, a good tool and could mess up good work.

My intention was/is to sharpen all my photos, the thing is I have been forgetting on some of them. I remember thinking that that was funny, it didn't seem to matter one way or another. So I don't know if I sharpened it or not, but that is definitely allowed. Everything that Andy has been asked about has been allowed, that I am aware of. And suddenly the burn tool was not going to be? I was surprised, hurt, felt that was very surprising, probably was a bit sarcastic in some of my posts, and then the whole thread just kind of died............. my situation may have had nothing to do with that.

The idea with me has never been to "win". I never thought I could/would/whatever. But I do want to be in the final ten, have been very excited about that. I think as long as I leave one of my photos up there that is a given this time. I seem to see reflections everywhere, Sid. Maybe you have not had the rain, then the sunshine that we have had......... I thought about you all when it rained here yesterday afternoon. I thought about me, all I needed to do was grab my camera, and go to one of my "haunts", places that I know of that are soothing to me, or dramatic, etc. I could have had another reflection shot easy. And I live with water all around me. I have thought I could even do better if I had a boat.

I think most people know that I really wanted a shot like Andy took in the window, his second example. I don't have that, but I have given it up for now, I don't want to have more shots to choose from. And Gubbs has that wonderful window shot, himself, from England, with the British background. So I just figure I will keep the thought of Andy's shot in my mind, and look for it when I am downtown sometime. (We don't go often anymore, actually, this whole thing has been great for me, as I have been many more places for the Challenges than I have been in 20 yrs. They have built a lot of parking garages downtown, that is nice, but it also takes away from my food money, my husband doesn't want to go, we can't take his van, so we have stayed home............... That is an aside, but I am trying to say that the challenges have really been fun for me.)

The thing is that now I feel just sick. Not because I am not going to win. That has not been my goal. My goal is always to do a finished product that I like so much that I don't care if I don't win. Also, secondary to that, I would like to be in the final ten. I have not ticked off Andy, and my pictures are good this time, better than usual for me, IMO, so I was not worried about the final ten, or winning.............but on the principal of the thing, I felt like I was being excluded from making a minor change, when others were doing bigger things, and I didn't know why.

I kind of felt paranoid, and that is not quite correct either. I just felt "picked on". And, if I was going to enter the picture, I did want it to be such as I really liked it, the most that I could, as usual. I have stopped myself from doing anything drastic like taking the one that is on the Challenge down, but obviously I am going to sometime, as the copy is wrong. I would either exchange it for another rainbow picture with the correct copy, or I would exchange it for another one of my photos, probably the Reflections one. Or I would just take it down.

I am trying to maintain some sanity and not make any decisions while I am upset.

But I do want a ruling on the burn issue.

ginger

ginger_55

Jul-22-2004, 04:59 AM

I have returned Ginger with another try at my bridge..... Different kerploosh in this frame and I have included a tree trunk in the foreground also. Comments and criticisms are greatly appreciated. Does anyone think we need a grey scale like the one on dpreview? Like this??
http://www.dpreview.com/images/grayscale.gif

I like Rutts skyscapes from Yellowstone - they are gorgeous!

http://pathfinder.smugmug.com/photos/6417511-S.jpg

I agree that Rutt's shot is gorgeous, out of this world, lol, out of mine, but so is yours. I used to live in Indiana, it had bridges like "yours".

I never see the kerplooshes, but I can see the tree, I like it, myself. I think I could say that I definitely like it, adds dimension, IMO.

I am curious as to what the grey scale thing is. What do you use it for?
And how?

I love that photo, Pathfinder!

ginger

We know that I do like red in a color photo, lol.

cmr164

Jul-22-2004, 05:05 AM

Sid, I have said how I did this, I don't know I waited all yesterday, etc. I don't understand the big deal, if I had not said anything I don't think anyone would have noticed. I was just so excited, because I had often wanted to burn something in, but I had found the tool useless, as when I used it I ended up with a dark smudge. Something clicked in me yesterday morning and I tried it on 20% instead of 100%, duh, and it, of course worked.

I don't even see any point, except I would like to get a ruling on this for the principal of the thing. But I am not going to enter it, not as I feel now. I have alienated a bunch of people, and this is how I did it. I admit to being both surprised and pleased by Andy's no PS rule. We currently have 2 challenges. This one for picture taking and the other for digital darkroom work. I like the separation and the purity of having this challenge be of picture taking. It is a challenge to one set of our skills while the digital darkroom is a challenge to another set.

I had used curves and sent it to a friend to see what she thought, I also sent it to this list, I think, and had no comments on the curves thing, but my friend wrote back "fake", and I tended to agree. I needed to change the copy on the frame to "Whisper A Rainbow". My other one is still on the Challenge thing, if you want to see the old copy. So I got out my reflections folder, found an unframed, uncurved version of the photo, and I framed it. And I put the type on.

I was staring at it, when I thought, "I wonder what would happen with the burn tool if I put it at a smaller percentage, as in other things we have done". I was just thinking, and the burn tool, to me, is such a small thing, I mean really basic, I had never been able to use it, and I missed it from my darkroom days.

And the grass at the bottom of the photo had always bothered me. So I tried the burn tool randomly picking the number 20%. It worked pretty good. I don't know the size of the brush, it was not large, I only wanted the grass, and it wasn't too tiny. And I don't know anything about brushes, really, there is a lot I don't know, I have mentioned before that I don't understand a hard brush from a soft brush. All I know is that it was the brush tool a little bigger than the smileys, maybe 1 1/2 times the size. Maybe double. I don't know.

The setting was on midtones, or however it is phrased. I used it. And it worked, but the midtones had not really bothered me, so then I tried it on highlights, and it took care of the whole situation, just the grass at the bottom. You can compare the photos yourself, or I can post them together, it is the grass at the bottom, no water.

Then I had messed up on the framing, not perfect, and it bothered me, the type was too big, or something. So I started over with the same picture, this timed I burned in the grass before I framed it, and I only used the highlight setting. Also, when I burned in the grass on the far left, I could see that the brush included some of the water, so I went "backwards" and did one small area on the bottom at the left with a brush a bit smaller than the smileys.

And I framed it. I put it up here, was so excited that I had finally figured out the burn tool that I mentioned it. And right now, to be honest, I don't like that picture very well. I am extremely hurt. At first I wasn't, but as the day went by, no one was posting, no one said another thing......... I mean I was a little annoyed, but it would be stupid, if I were worried about the voting, for me to tick off half the voters. Which is what I did. I thought it was such a small thing, other people were using curves, and I had just used a burn tool.

I might joke about being a troublemaker, but all of a sudden it did not seem funny to me.

I just wanted someone to talk to me.......... kind of. I almost private messaged you, Sid, then I figured that you would come on eventually. And I was, and I am, hurt. I think what I did was infitesimal (sp?) compared to curves. Or going black and white which Andy had suggested re the boat that was first presented on this thread. (I went back to check out the things Andy had said early on when issues were raised, and I read the thing where he was helping with the boat, suggested a few things, including making it a blk and white.)

As to the rest of the photo, I had duplicated that for my husband one evening, just to show how easy it was. It only took 15 minutes, if that. He has no patience in watching me on the computer.

I had cropped it to straighten the horizon. Since I was doing that, I left out the line and rock at the right.

Then I did levels, the options, using the top one, then I moved the middle bar a bit to the right until I liked it, then I nudged it back a bit, a trick of mine to avoid going too far. So that was it with levels.

Then I went to saturation, and I added a bit of saturation.

Then I went to contrast, maybe, that is my normal pattern, but I have stopped, and I don't know that I used it on that picture or not. The reason I have stopped, in general, is something I read that said it was not, generally, a good tool and could mess up good work.

My intention was/is to sharpen all my photos, the thing is I have been forgetting on some of them. I remember thinking that that was funny, it didn't seem to matter one way or another. So I don't know if I sharpened it or not, but that is definitely allowed. Everything that Andy has been asked about has been allowed, that I am aware of. And suddenly the burn tool was not going to be? I was surprised, hurt, felt that was very surprising, probably was a bit sarcastic in some of my posts, and then the whole thread just kind of died............. my situation may have had nothing to do with that.

The idea with me has never been to "win". I never thought I could/would/whatever. But I do want to be in the final ten, have been very excited about that. I think as long as I leave one of my photos up there that is a given this time. I seem to see reflections everywhere, Sid. Maybe you have not had the rain, then the sunshine that we have had......... I thought about you all when it rained here yesterday afternoon. I thought about me, all I needed to do was grab my camera, and go to one of my "haunts", places that I know of that are soothing to me, or dramatic, etc. I could have had another reflection shot easy. And I live with water all around me. I have thought I could even do better if I had a boat.

I think most people know that I really wanted a shot like Andy took in the window, his second example. I don't have that, but I have given it up for now, I don't want to have more shots to choose from. And Gubbs has that wonderful window shot, himself, from England, with the British background. So I just figure I will keep the thought of Andy's shot in my mind, and look for it when I am downtown sometime. (We don't go often anymore, actually, this whole thing has been great for me, as I have been many more places for the Challenges than I have been in 20 yrs. They have built a lot of parking garages downtown, that is nice, but it also takes away from my food money, my husband doesn't want to go, we can't take his van, so we have stayed home............... That is an aside, but I am trying to say that the challenges have really been fun for me.)

The thing is that now I feel just sick. Not because I am not going to win. That has not been my goal. My goal is always to do a finished product that I like so much that I don't care if I don't win. Also, secondary to that, I would like to be in the final ten. I have not ticked off Andy, and my pictures are good this time, better than usual for me, IMO, so I was not worried about the final ten, or winning.............but on the principal of the thing, I felt like I was being excluded from making a minor change, when others were doing bigger things, and I didn't know why.

I kind of felt paranoid, and that is not quite correct either. I just felt "picked on". And, if I was going to enter the picture, I did want it to be such as I really liked it, the most that I could, as usual. I have stopped myself from doing anything drastic like taking the one that is on the Challenge down, but obviously I am going to sometime, as the copy is wrong. I would either exchange it for another rainbow picture with the correct copy, or I would exchange it for another one of my photos, probably the Reflections one. Or I would just take it down.

I am trying to maintain some sanity and not make any decisions while I am upset.

But I do want a ruling on the burn issue.

ginger Ginger, no one is picking on you. I just suggested that you ask Andy for clarification. I do think that "I did want it to be such as I really liked it, the most that I could, as usual." is the kind of thing each person wants. You took great pictures (truely outstanding) and they don't need to be helped.

PS can be like an addiction and I see Andy's rule as a premptive strike against the photo challenge becoming a PS challenge, but only he can tell us what he really thinks and unfortunately he is away. So relax and smile. Cause we all like you and we definitely admire your shots and your 'shopping skills both
.:clap

gubbs

Jul-22-2004, 05:21 AM

I'm not going to enter this but wondered what you thought

http://Gubbs.smugmug.com/photos/6315674-M.jpg

dugmar

Jul-22-2004, 05:22 AM

Okay, this assigment really didn't inspire me at first. But I was walking up to my car this morning after getting my daily bagel and saw these reflections.

First one... "How much is that Mini in the Window"

http://dugmar.smugmug.com/photos/6425216-L.jpg

dugmar

Jul-22-2004, 05:26 AM

Second one...
"Roof tops on the roof top"

http://dugmar.smugmug.com/photos/6425222-L.jpg

dugmar

Jul-22-2004, 05:32 AM

Last one for today...
Kind of crummy composition...

http://dugmar.smugmug.com/photos/6425346-L.jpg

spockling

Jul-22-2004, 05:36 AM

Here's one, but I'm not sure it's up to it........it's a window in a door.:scratch

http://members.shaw.ca/betlin/Contests/circle1_ni.jpg

ginger_55

Jul-22-2004, 05:50 AM

I admit to being both surprised and pleased by Andy's no PS rule. We currently have 2 challenges. This one for picture taking and the other for digital darkroom work. I like the separation and the purity of having this challenge be of picture taking. It is a challenge to one set of our skills while the digital darkroom is a challenge to another set.

Ginger, no one is picking on you. I just suggested that you ask Andy for clarification. I do think that "I did want it to be such as I really liked it, the most that I could, as usual." is the kind of thing each person wants. You took great pictures (truely outstanding) and they don't need to be helped.

PS can be like an addiction and I see Andy's rule as a premptive strike against the photo challenge becoming a PS challenge, but only he can tell us what he really thinks and unfortunately he is away. So relax and smile. Cause we all like you and we definitely admire your shots and your 'shopping skills both
.:clap

I don't know how I see Andy's ruling. I don't think he interprets it as you all do. If it were "nothing" allowed then my original picture would have to stand.

I have followed his rulings, I went back to check them yesterday, he has been lenient to the point of my wondering what he means by photoshopping.

I followed this discussion, when you all were talking about it on a different thread, and I got the feeling then that he was not on the same page as everyone else.

Maybe we should all enter our photos as they came out of the camera, compared to the end product.

Andy does not get back til Sunday night, the contest ends Monday. I am surprised that you all would be surprised that I am surprised. I think curves is quite a bit of photoshopping, to the extent that I don't do it well at all, and it is allowed. I can understand cropping to straighten a picture. But I was really surprised when Andy said that curves and levels were allowed.

What I have been doing has all been mentioned as OK with Andy. The burn issue has not come up. It really did not occur to me until yesterday.

Look at it this way, cropping is allowed, I could just take those weeds out with a crop. That is manipulating a photograph, IMO. The same as the burn tool that I had never used before. I could not be addicted to something I had never used before.

Now levels, that to me enhances my photos greatly, makes a big difference, easily. But I call that photoshopping.

I have been asked to take photos at a baby shower being given for my son and his wife. I am to take the photos, then they are going to rush them to Sam's to get prints and put them in an Album the same night.

And it was mentioned that that was based on my recent results with photos.
All my recent results with photos have been enhanced by levels. Also I take a lot of photos, 150 to 200 at a time. And I delete as I go along.

I am going to agree to their request for me as the photographer, as I asked my friend, and she told me I should. I know my daughter asked me to do it, as she knows I can't hear anything in a party situation. So she is trying to help me, plus get some good photos for an album of the party.

I hate the idea of not using levels, that to me is addicting, and it is allowed here. Definitely, from the writing of his own self.

It did not, has not, bothered me that I will not be able to dodge and burn the party photos, I would like to be able to use levels, saturation and sharpening, perhaps, on them. That is bothering me.

I think a Challenge without photoshop should be a Challenge without photoshop, totally. This is confusing to me. I think the definition of "photoshopping" is diferent to Andy than it is to most of us, particularly if we are just learning.

ginger