Atherton & District Amateur Photographic Society

I spent a really enjoyable day at Trentham Gardens yesterday, in Staffordshire. I can definitely recommend it for a day out with your camera (is there any other kind?)

Just before leaving I took this shot. I can't decide if I like the drama of the sky, or if the highlights are too distracting and take over. I keep changing my mind. Anybody got an opinion? Not just on the sky, but on the picture as a whole.

Oh, and I know, don't start a shot on water. But the only thing in front of the water was a wall, and I was leaning on that

The composition is good and the sky is pleasing. But I wouldn't go so far as dramatic, it looks a little weak really. If you had some sun on the distant trees it would have helped enormously to give the image more "pazazz" or "bite" - not an easy one with the lighting that you had.

However, I do feel that as a letterbox format the picture can be enhanced. This removes much of the bland water and tightens up the composition. Then perhaps a lift in Photoshop....

If this does look more dramatic on your screen, then maybe check that you are not posting an AdobeRGB image. Images for the forum need to be sRGB to get accurate colours and contrast.

kevinlowe wrote: I can't decide if I like the drama of the sky, or if the highlights are too distracting and take over.

The highlights aren't too distracting for me, but if you shot in RAW you could try processing the same file twice to eliminate them, ie:

- open the RAW file slighly underexposed so the highlights aren't noticeable
- then open the same RAW file this time with correct exposure
- paste one on top of the other and use a layer mask to show/hide the parts you like

Thanks for the comments and advice. Here's the pic in a letterbox format, I think you're right that it makes a more pleasing image. I've decided I do like the highlights, especially in this format.
I'll go away and try working on them though, just to see what what I can get from it.

I think that's much better.

I am not bothered if the image "starts on water", but what I do think looks odd (which you hadn't done anyway) was to have some boulders for example and half chop them off at the bottom. Either have them in or not.

I do think the letterbox format suits better.

cheers

Hi Kevin

Yes - much much better and you have brought out some lovely colours and detail in the trees on the left.

Tracey