This is a wonderful shot. I love it. Normally you would underdevelop it N-1 or so to reduce the contrast range but that is a more difficult proposition with roll film unless the entire roll is shot in the same kind of setting. But the lamp is localized enough to allow a fair bit of dodging in the darkroom, so that might be another solution.
FWIW, I think this interpretation works as well for this scene.
I agree 100%! This works great as is. The "burned out" light is superb in this composition; toning it down would take away from the shot, IMHO.
Pyro developer might be what you would want to use in this case, but you really need to use sheet film, not roll film. Given that this was done on 35, I think it's marvelous. Nice job!
Sean: Technidol--Expensive, but really keeps the highlights under control. Dilute each packet to 10 oz. instead of Kodak's 8 oz. recommendation. Assuming the T-Max you used is T-100, try 12 minutes.
When i saw the thumbnail - I thought... "hmm... kind of boring composition..." but then I came in for a look. I think the symmetrical composition really works though. It increases the sense of 'loneliness' - and the 'sentinel-like' character of the light. I think this image has some depth to it!
I think maybe Anupam's comment has nothing to do with the image. I would ask you not to be influenced by it (sorry Anu) - lessening the overall contrast would do nothing but weaken the image. The 'blown out light' is what MAKES this image. Making images according to blind and superficial application of the zone system would lead to a world of soul-less images.
I`m with Sparky here, contrast is good as it is. The blown lamp looks real and gives life to the photograph. I`m not too found of the pinkish tone of the snow though...
Thanks for all of the wonderful feedback. I called this spring, kind of a joke with all of the snow that we've been getting today and this past week. Thanks - Sean