This image is another example of the innovative and creative uses of a camera. It manages to give a positive result even though it consists largely of overblown highlights and blocked shadows, either of which can be fatal in many scenes. For both to occur simultaneously and yet produce a lovely image is rare indeed. Only the center “creek” area might be said to be “properly” exposed. The stark contrast between the bright snow in the foreground and the sky in the background with the black dead weeds make it comparable to a woodcut. The silhouetted crane is undoubtedly the focal point.
Whether the image succeeds or not is for each individual to decide for himself.
Heron on Grassy Creek - Anita Hale
Recent member Anita Hale gets credit for this photograph. She is a native of Grassy Creek (where this shot was taken on Christmas day of 2009) but spends her winters in Miami. She has no recollection of herons being seen in the area when she was growing up. As with other members who fly south for the winter, we look forward to meeting her this summer at the Arts Council.
Nikon D5000
Shutter Speed: 1/125
F-Stop: f/5.6
ISO: 900
Focal Length: 300.0mm
Flash: Did Not Fire
I think this is an incredible image…whoever made the comment that you rarely get a great exposure from blown out highlights said it “spot on,” to copy the british in their special tongue…here a photo that breaks all such rigid rules stands out in a striking capture. Well done !
I see the blurred weeds as a lead in – into the creek – and the angle of weeds points into the scene – it is good to see one’s work through other’s eyes. thank you!!
Kim makes an interesting comment regarding the bottom third of Anita’s shot. Her conclusion is that the blurred weeds
in the foreground do add to the final result. Still, take a look at a cropped version as a comparison.
george
I love this photo, Anita! Visually, I initially wrestled with the bottom 3rd of the shot. The blurred grass at the bottom is sort of a distraction, but in the same token and probably more persuasive to me, I really think it adds to the ‘funkiness’ of shot and the final photo without it would not be as interesting to me.