church gate

I hope i won't offfend you by stating that I find the creative blurring used in this, and some of your other photos, distracting. Rather than serving to direct the viewers attention to the point(s) of interest, the blurred areas become the center of attention in and of themselves. The photos that you have generously posted which are sharper are, to me, much more successful. Also, might I also ask why many images are toned to the same general color? I understand that scanning an image might well render the image tone very much different than if the print were held and viewed in the "correct light". The toning, once again to my eyes and perhaps not to others, is distracting and detracts from your compositions rather than adding to them.

I thought carefully before posting my comments, for I am genuinely concerned that I might cause hurt feelings, and even some anger on your part. However, when one posts images and solicits comments, it would be dishonest not to comment according to ones honest opinion. Consequently, I ask that you accept any comments that I write as being entirely constructive. It occurs to me that perhaps you are seeking a certain "look" to all of your images, i.e., that of a "time past" ; thus you are trying to create a certain mood by the toning and blurred areas. In some of the images your technique works wonderfully well ( "Zen" ), and in others becomes trite and almost becomes an end in itself, i.e., the "look" trumps the subject. I expect that others might well disagree.

Still friends? :confused:

Edwin

There is nothing "trite" about this in MHO ... Like-wise the "natural" colors associated with lith printing are in fact integral to this method of printing ... part of the lith print ... I appreciate it ....

I think that the subject of this picture - the center spike and lettering on the gate - would not be apparent without the selective focus that Marianne used. Also, knowing her work quite well, the tone and grit provided by lith printing, as well as the subject, are part of a consistent body of work that she is producing.

I see much more more than just a gate...
Very coherent body of work. Point of view, subject, printing.
All of this makes your signature a beautiful one.

edwin..fear not. i do not allow those i do not know to hurt my feelings or upset me. i read your criticism and i think that those who posted after you have explained the toning issue pretty well. i work hard to achieve a consistent tone in lith printing and especially with the images i make with the great wall camera because i am trying to build a cohesive collection... as for the rest of your comments, you are entitled to your own opinion of course and i read your words and took them in the spirit with which they were written...

miles, dan, and guillaume...i thank you for your support as you all well know!