I had another chair shot I was going to post, but decided against it. For those of you who are interested, I have made it available here. I wanted to continue with b&w for another day or two, however.
I took this picture about a week and a half ago up in Scottsdale while shooting with Abe. It is relevant to mention that Abe let me borrow his Rebel XT for a while, and this is one of the shots I took with it. I used channels again to bring out the contrast and tones. The top of the door is a little bit darker than I would like, but just a small detail. Neither the door, sign, or light are straight, so if it looks crooked, keep in mind that I did my best to make it look as straight as possible.
I might have another black and white tomorrow, but soon aftwards I will resume normal colorful, vibrant, shots. ;) I do have quite a striking set of two pictures that I am looking forward to posting in the next several days. Also, I've got to get back to shooting more nature photography. It does me good to explore other areas and styles, but nature is still my first love. Perhaps I can go out and shoot some more cacti while it's still below 100°.
categories: architecture monochrome
May 14th, 2005 at 4:45 AM
Very nice! This photo has a lot to it... first, compositionally, its divided nicely into sections of thirds -- horizontally, it's one third door, two thirds wall; vertically, it's one third sign and two thirds lamp (and above). It makes for a nice symmetry. I also love the gradient of light you captured, and I think the darkness of the top of the door compliments that nicely. In my mind, this is under an awning, and the dispersion makes the top darker, naturally.
But aside from technicalities like that, this image conveys a lot more. First, the image of a door, sort of old, wooden, probably used a lot; then the lamp, which has that same worn and used look, and all contrasted against this stucco wall which is far from perfect, and also has the same feel to it. And then we see this "Open" sign, which means it's an entrance to a shop of some kind, and the meaning of the photograph is all told. It has people behind it. People walk in and out of the door every day, and have for many years; someone owns the shop, and put the sign there. Someone might turn the light on at night and turn the sign to "Closed."
This is a great photograph because it's not just a great image -- it connects. Thank you. I've been waiting for this.
May 14th, 2005 at 6:16 AM
I agree with Tristan. If you could measure the area of the dark, including the lamp, and measure the area of light including the sign, I think they would be about equal. The little black thing sticking out adds a new shape and therefore more interest. What is that? Its completely black from what I can see. The typeface on the sign is unique too, and fits the "old" feel.
May 14th, 2005 at 6:39 AM
Well Tristan says it all and ditto for me. I would add just one minor comment to what he wrote. There are seven basic elements in this photo: sign, sign chain, lamp, lamp back, electrical conduit above the lamp, the door, and the number 7 above the door. Did you plan this? You must be a very meticulous fellow.
Warm regards,
John
May 14th, 2005 at 7:02 PM
Great shots recently! These black and whites have been fabulous. I don't usually seem to get good contrast on black and whites for some reason. Good job!
May 14th, 2005 at 9:03 PM
good composition!!!
May 14th, 2005 at 11:28 PM
the old feeling of this picture is very potent. I agree with Tristain this time in that you can certainly get a feeling of the people who use, and have used, this door. It's amazing for what it is, and what it can imply to the imagination. I like. :^)
May 15th, 2005 at 3:31 AM
Interesting composition. Nice B&W.
It's great that your friend let you have the 350D for a while. As a 300D user, what do you think about 350D?