The Lamp, The Spirit, and the Sword.by
ArcanistComment by Arcanist: I would like to thank all who commented on this image. This challenge has been a revelation to me in many ways and as I saw the common thread of grain and distraction, I had to really re-evaluate this submission and what I thought was important for 'the art.' Thankfully the comments were focused on the major distraction in this image and it made a massive impact on my view of the end result.
So, for three days, I learned more about PScs, grain, noise reduction and even considered reshooting the work. Someday the reshoot will happen, but I already know from the comments that I can do much better with some effort.
... and so: for my own personal notes as I work on this this week:
I can see the link to low tech in the oil lamp, there is no question here. The addition of the books is secondary, but their coloration against the background could be interpreted as them being more important. The largest distration in this is the background fabric's texture and the grain. They directly compete with the detail in teh leather of the forward book. The grain can stay, but it must be muted considerably to achieve the effect and not distract. Either the doily (sp?) or the backdrop need to be removed/changed. The crop is fine as it pulls the whole together, but it just seems too busy.
Using a lantern is a challenge in itself. Notice the fog in the mid-section of the flume. As the glass heats up from being cold, it will fog like that for about an hour. Take your picture after the flume has heated properly and there will be less fog. Makes for a much nicer picture and more even lighting. This would look much more natural on a dark/old wooden desk or stand. Good attempt but too many distracting elements that a bit more polish would have easily overcome.
...stay tuned for (revisited).
Message edited by author 2004-12-07 05:45:06. 
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