Time for a rethink - DPChallenge Forums

Canon EF 17-40mm f/4.0L USM

11/15/2004 11:23:35 AM · #1

I`ve decided to change the style of my submissions in future as (judging from comments on my calendar submission)not only would it appear that I`m getting predictable, but as with my last submission "Autumn hues"..I feel I have to justify how I achieved the effect as it mostly seems to be attributed to "Neat Image" which couldn`t be further from the truth.
The main crib for most with the "Calendar" shot was the fake look of the trees and I can understand how this was attributed to NI..but a quick look at the original (straight from camera) will show that`s not the case.The fact that they were birch trees with very small leaves combined with the dull weather conditions tended to result in a "clumped" appearance.

I don`t suppose there`s many bothered how it was achieved..but I feel a bit aggreived that it`s all put down to NI..so if nothing else, it`s got it out my system.

Kylie

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35

11/15/2004 11:32:43 AM · #2

The most predictable thing about your work is that it is stunning - always. As I said in my other post, it is sad that PS has taken away some of the ability to appreciate the natural effects we can get from the camera, nature and the light.

peecee

Canon EOS-5D

11/15/2004 11:36:56 AM · #3

Gordon,
I think probably the majority of the users on this site have used NI or similar at some point, the predominant feature of this shot was the accentuated highlights as you mention , not the NI treatment, all that differs is your final approach, ie not sharpening much after NI.
I like your work and see no reason to alter just because a minority do not ! my opinion of course.
Paul.

zeuszen

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS

11/15/2004 12:15:47 PM · #4

You have been spared outright prejudice though, Gordon. At least, most comments regarding the effect were tentative, rather than blatantly prejudiced.

Given the nature of this site and the natural curiosity about method and tools involved in a particular effect, I would welcome any comment which does not presuppose facts that aren't in or of the picture. I would reject those which do.

Personally, I tend to grow tired of an effect or a way of doing things when I, myself, do, not when others weigh in with unfounded arguments. When the argument is well made though (substantiated), I am effected and thus more easily persuaded.

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS

11/15/2004 12:44:21 PM · #5

Thanks to all for the input.
I`m sorry if I appear to be "whinging", I really don`t mean to.
I think I`m getting RSI from doing the same write up after each submission ..(hence the reason for a change in style).
I`d also like to make clear that I am not devaluing the comments made, I welcome each and every one (well most anyway..I have had an odd nasty one.)
I have learned much about photography in the last year and most of that has been gleaned from the comments criticising my efforts.
It`s just the fact that I would hate to become predictable and to be seen as the guy who uses a filter for all his submissions.
Limited as I am at postprocessing skills,I do put a bit more work in than that...honestly :)

zeuszen

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II

11/15/2004 01:28:26 PM · #6

Originally posted by geewhy:

...It`s just the fact that I would hate to become predictable and to be seen as the guy who uses a filter for all his submissions....

Yes, that would be an intimidating prospect, wouldn't it. ;-) Given the integrity of your work though, I think it highly improbable.

annasense

Olympus E-500 EVOLT

Olympus 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital ED

11/15/2004 01:46:23 PM · #7

Gordon, I gave you a 10. To me, it doesn't matter how the effect was achieved, all that matters to me is if I think it's pleasing to my eyes, and this one was perfect eye candy. I love it-- so just know that some people see the great shot you see, and if you're happy with what you've done, that's all that really matters.

One thing that really stands out with this image is how saturated the colors are (it's gorgeous)... and I get lots of comments on my shots that I've over-saturated images, so I know I see things differently than the rest of the world... The only person I know I can always please is myself, so I've just made it my goal to do just that.

11/15/2004 02:08:37 PM · #8

Originally posted by annasense:

The only person I know I can always please is myself, so I've just made it my goal to do just that.

An excellent strategy..unlikely to lead to many arguments...I hope I can learn to adopt a similar policy :)

Kylie

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35

11/15/2004 02:15:26 PM · #9

Originally posted by annasense:

Keep doing what you're doing! It is the best strategy and I, for one, really enjoy your taste and your creations.