The restless sea II

I distinctly remember the original image and commenting on it. Personally, and this is clearly a subjective thing, I prefer the first image by far. This version is too stark; the sky is too totally blown out, too bright. The dynamic range is too bimodal. The color in it doesn't seem meaningful.

Having said this, however, not having seen the B&W version, I think the mind could still impute meaning. For me, for all of the aforementioned reasons, this one has existential implications; passing out of this life into "The Gates of Oblivion" as Arlo Gutherie characterizes it or "Into the Masterpiece" per Leonard Cohen.

First, we have this blinding white light, and going into such a light is what is often described by those returning from near death experiences. The aging pylons, some with lichens growing on them, lead inexorably into the Light and the two figures floating in the distance; The only only remaining vestige of color other than the deck itself and the last wave ebbing toward the sea.

In the B&W version, you see that the figures are actually standing on an expansive beach in the horizon, just the other side of the lake or pond, not eternity. You also have a lot more going on in the foreground, the here-and-now. And, perhaps most importantly, you don't notice the lichens.

I hope you had some waterproof boots on for this one. I like the idea of the slow shutter speed and the composition is unusual and pleasing to me. I do think the contrast is a bit on the high side for my taste with many of the highlights blown out. Perhaps this is what you intended?

Thanks for the comments guys! I should have said that the bleakness in the sky is intentional. I was carrefull to not blow any highlights, but the lowres jpg does make it seem like it.

I prefer this one as the viewpoint is centered down the pilings and the earlier one was not. Also I like the more high key approach with the brighter sky and almost black pilings which gives the image a more dramatic look in my opinion.

PS: Below the comment box and just above and to the left of the "Choose File" button is a hyperlink named "Text Style Menu" which will tell you how to create a hyperlink to your earlier image.

I definitely prefer this one Jorne, your choice of viewpoint is much more pleasing to my eye. I like the high contrast in this too.

Gary.

I love your processing here. it works well for me. Beautiful image