4x5" sheet film
Orange filter
FP4+ exposed at 80 ASA N+1,5
Developed in PMK (Pyro) @21°C 15min. (agitation each 15 secs)
The global range of greys was not so wide and so I used the N+1,5 to extend it
I also tilted the back in order to have full focus on the background and see the snow texture (and the path too)
There is more going on here than a range of greys and long shadows.
While the technical aspect of an image is interesting it is not central - nor what makes it a work of art.
This image is wonderful for several reasons.
First of all because of the content = the way it shows life.
The 3 trees would be recognized by almost any person earth as a family of 3.
But there is more...
The snow-field and the trees without leaves - yet with a "youngster" shows that life can and does flourish in harsh environments. It is a general form of visual communication that transcends the subject matter and can be compared to the human condition. A struggling family fighting against all odds, but manages to overcome and grow regardless of life's obstacles.
And more...
The path in the snow shows life as we understand it best = something that moves.
Finally, (back to the technical issues) - the composition - the way the image is seen and presented - makes the eyes of the viewer experience the image in a controlled manner (by the photographer): the eyes start at the trees, where we also observe that the snow is melting around the roots - spring is coming soon and life will continue again in full vigor. From the trees your eyes follow the shadows and continue upwards following the path (of life), from there back to the tree tops and the same "tour" takes place again.
All great images - photographs and paintings alike (usually) have this sort of path. In a way it is like experiencing a piece of music with its rhythm, orchestration and levels, except not over a long period of time - but instead almost in an instant.
In my opinion photographers should think more and shoot less.
This is a well thought out - and well seen image that grows on you more and more you look at it!
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