The old, fortified city has been inhabited for more than 2,500 years and contains a wealth of intact architectural gems. It was declared a World Heritage City by the United Nations in 1986. Efforts are underway to preserve some of the oldest buildings, some of which are over 400 years old. Surrounded by ancient clay walls which stand six to nine metres (20-30 ft) high, the old city boasts over 100 mosques, 12 hammams (baths) and 6,500 houses. Many of the houses look rather like ancient skyscrapers – reaching several stories high and topped with flat roofs, they are decorated with elaborate friezes and intricately carved frames and stained glass windows. Backstreet in the city. Backstreet in the city.
One of the most popular attractions is Suq al-Milh (Salt Market), where it is possible to buy not only salt but also bread, spices, raisins, cotton, copper, pottery, silverware, antiques and slaves. The majestic seventh century al-Jami'a l-Kabir (The Great Mosque) is one of the oldest in the Muslim world. Bāb al-Yaman "Yemen Gate" is an iconized entry point through the city walls and is over 700 years old.
I think a recrop would indeed improve, make the half man come forward, I would also crop the wite car. I fully agree Nick but as for timing now I am only converting the slides to digital. I think a second time I have to take all large versions I saved and make a proper crop. Harry
I see what you mean. The documentary should indeed take what *is*, exactly as it *is*. Still a different angle/distance/etc would also take what *is*. So there's the choise from where to shoot, etc.
The "half man" I referred to, adds that kind of "live" look and feel that is important for a documentary too. The question is then, would that "live" attitude get lost if he was completely on image? I assume it wouldn't but I don't really know. He also seems to enhance the feel for activity there, as he surely appears to be much nearer to us, and thus makes the impression stronger of that kind of coming and going in such places.
I am taking the documentary path here, ie not aiming for beauties but pure a document what was there, including flaws. I have considered b/w what would eleminate most rubbish. Still i choose the half faded away colors of the film ( ocra and blue remain dominant after aging ).
What a good sense for a vivid scene of everyday life, Harry! Some small blurs here and there seem to add interest and life rather than reducing the quality of the image.
The composition is a bit raw for the cut of the foreground. Especially the man on the centre bottom of the image could add much if taken completely. Which makes me think of a shorter focal length.
The coloring/lighting is "strange" to me, but in a very nice way. It made a somewhat "latent" reference to artificial light, and this enhanced the city wall on the background but also the general light/shadow game. The available details do work together with this unsual light.
Perhaps also some other frame for a bit more contrast from the white background of UF? (Attachment as a suggestion.)