Regarding the choice of contrast and blacks, I think I understand the desire to push the darker tones deeper, making the image even more abstract and less recognizable. I wanted to retain detail in the gravel bed to add another layer of interest. When I look at the print from afar, I get the larger impression of abstract shapes, and when I get closer in I can see into the layers.
William, this was taken with a Hasselblad, 80mm lens and extension tube.
Thom, I've printed rarely on Galerie (damn, it's expensive stuff), and try to select negatives that I think will be especially suitable with the paper. Really wonderful paper though.