Dancing Birches

The 'Gunks' sound like a wonderful place to explore, and this is a beautiful scene. I would imagine that the birches glow in a fading light, although I'm not sure I'd want to be hauling LF gear down the trail once the light is gone.

All the best,
Daniel

I like this! Glowing birch or aspen trunks are a well worn subject matter, yet you have found a way to make it your own. I'd be even more impressed if you cranked off a couple 4x5 shots while hanging off a finger jam under one of those overhanging rock climbs the Gunks if famous for

Murray

P.S. I'd be inclined to try darkening the foilage in the top middle third of the print a bit, to see how it compares with this print.

an interesting abstract jo, but just a little too 'disconnected' and baseless

Isn't it great, out hiking with a 5x4 camera! Sometimes you just wish for a little digicam, just kidding. I like this shot, nice details and lovely feeling of light, could probably handle being a little darker.
Cheers, Tony

Thank you all (er...y'all) for your comments. The reason this is in the critique forum is that it needs critiquing! The wind was strong, the sunlight harsh and this was the best I could do at the time, however, it's certainly possible and likely that another time (more overcast etc.) might have been a lot better. I really liked the sunlight highlights on the trunk, however, I had to dodge and bleach the largest one on the left to keep it in balance. Well.....I'll be returning to Sam's Point as often as I can find the time, and as long as my shoulders hold out.


Oh, and btw, I've been told that these are NOT birches at all, but are aspen poplar.

John I love the abstract arrangement and the glow you have in the print. Have you considered making a print where the darkest tone is mid gray or even lighter, I think it would bring a lovely delicate mood to an excellent image. Please don't think I'm criticising the tonality of this version, I love it, but I often play with tonality just to see what it gives the image.

Thanks for commenting, Les. I think I am too timid about significant departures from 'reality'. Your suggestion sounds like an excellent idea, and would probably be a good thing to consider with some other of my prints as well. (When I sometimes look at Wynn Bullock's stuff, I am impressed by his sense of tonal adventure and creative printing. A good role model for we who tread too lightly)

I don't remember seeing this. Gorgeous with excellent movement.