Ok Larry . . . well thought out. But you can still retain the height effect and lose the sky (see attached) . . . though to my eye the image is not as strong as it could be. You're right about the trade offs. On your side, though, I have seen a number of OUTSTANDING shots get passed over for awards. I think losing the blown out portions of any shot would be a serious consideration if it's awards you seek. But I'd recommend against that . . . just get better . . . awards will follow - or, at least - quality work you can rightly brag about! I have attached a taller example without the blownout sky for your additional consideration. By the way . . . this shot is a great example of what I mean about quality. I truly think this would be a good one to show off, award or not.
Thanks Doyle for your very insightful comments. I can see your interpretation. I was going for a dreamlike appearance, hence the backlit blown-out sky and the photoshop-enhanced peripheral soft focus to bring the eye back to center. I strongly considered eliminating the too bright sky but chose to keep it to retain the height effect. It seems that photography is always a series of trade offs. The photos that aren't - win prizes. I'm still looking for the prize winner... Thanks again, Larry
Hi Larry! This is an excellent use of shutterspeed to get a good effect. To much usually blurs it too badly to show the power and flow - and too little makes it appear unintentionally soft. This seems to have split the difference nicely and the effect on the water is very good.
My opinion, though, is that the composition could be improved. The fleeting glimpse of sky in this shot . . . in the center, top of the image . . . is blown out and the lack of detail makes it a needless distraction. My first thought was drop the crop to cut it (through the foliage and into the rock) but leave in the entire waterfall.
On looking though - (all my opinion, mind you) - the focal clarity . . . possibly due to the DOF is very soft at the upper side of the falls. Plus, I felt the height of the falls seemd to emphasize a centrality to the subject and make for a more static composition . . . So I looked into a much bolder crop (example attached for your consideration).
I think you have a great shot here. . . . the rocks, colors and textures . . . in the lower portion due to the improved clarity -- are awesome. I think a bolder cut would show them off better . . . and portray a truly tranquil, peaceful scene.
Anyway . . . just something for you to consider!! :)
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{K:101119} 10/3/2006
