Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2005/12/15
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Aaron Sandler showed: >> Even with the dynamic range of trusty old film run through my Leica, I >> had > no choice but to let the highlights go in order to catch the expression of > concentration that is my PAW this week: > http://www.duke.edu/~ajs2/PAW/2005_50/index.html<<<< Aaron, Sorry mate, this is one of those shots that your eye sees it better than on the screen or a sheet of photo paper! Certainly without a considerable amount of darkroom burning and dodging. Unfortunately the blown highlights just don't wash, period! There are no excuses, like show no mercy, take no prisoners, the blown highlights kill this completely. Yeah I know, but life is cruel! And no cropping wont help one iota! You are at a bad angle, period! Also, no matter how good you believe the concentration looks, it's only a "one eyed concentration!!" Another no no.... To make this shot really work you need to see both eyes cleanly! As soon as you saw the concentration you should have squeezed to your right clearly showing both eyes and not the Doc's right eye cut in half by a piece of gear. May I suggest going to the library or a book store and look for my books, "Doctor's Work. The Legacy of Sir William Osler." and "Women in Medicine. A Celebration of their Work." Or if you can find it used, the beautiful B&W big coffee table size first edition, "This is Our Work. The Legacy of Sir William Osler." Three of the best books, on this point "I'm not the least bit humble" Best books for photographers to learn how to shoot in the medical scene. Period. All done with Leica's and available light wherever the pictures were taken. You'll find examples of almost identical situations as yours, but with clean and dramatic eyes. Actually you'll find all kinds of dramatic photographs that will help you get it right on the mark the next time you come across a fine medical opportunity as you had here. And many other real life moments. And making excuses like.. >>I had no choice but to let the highlights go in order to catch the expression of concentration that is my PAW this week: > http://www.duke.edu/~ajs2/PAW/2005_50/index.html<<<< Yep there was a choice, if it doesn't cut it cleanly, don't post it. Or if you like.... "If in doubt.... OUT!!" Particularly when we as viewers are accustomed to fine photography from you in the past. Look for the books! Quite frankly if you want to learn how to see light, eyes and action on the real firing line of life you wont get any better than in these books! Nothing personal son, all in a good cause to help make you a better photographer. ted Ted Grant Photography Limited 1817 Feltham Road Victoria BC V8N 2A4 250-477-2156