Ruby Beach Dawn

Gallery: LandscapePosted August 19, 20161,494 views13 comments

Made this image a couple of years a go one still morning along Ruby Beach of Olympic NP. In developing the scan of the 4x5 in PS, I have attempted to bring out the rim lighting around this tide pool, with extensive burning and dodging and masks. The designs in the sand were all present; they just needed to be nudged a little here and there to create what I had in mind when I exposed the film. Would very much appreciate your thoughts on the success of this image.
4x5, 120mm, Provia 100F. No filters. Flatbed (M1) scan, extensive use of TK masks and burning and dodging.

Larger image is a bit better.

Thanks.

Comments

13 comments

Comment posted by Brian Schrayer on August 19, 2016 at 8:18 PM

I like the way you have utilized the deep contrast in the foreground to emphasize the shape and form. Masterfully composed with beautiful light!

Registered on May 28, 2004, 114 Posts, 2890 Comments

Comment posted by Nick Bristol on August 19, 2016 at 9:00 PM

Vance, This image just blows me away. Your composition is absolutely perfect for my taste showing how well light and shadow can create such a dramatic image. Not only being dramatic but also giving a feeling of calm and peaceful at the same time. Just outstanding photography and processing. devil

Nick

Registered on February 1, 2004, 752 Posts, 14140 Comments

Comment posted by Ed Lowe on August 19, 2016 at 9:08 PM

Sweet stuff, Vance. The large version is perfect for showcasing the fine details and subtle nuances of light and shadow along the beach. I also like the warm light striking those crashing waves in the BG. Gorgeous image.

Ed

Registered on February 7, 2004, 414 Posts, 7115 Comments

Comment posted by gary phillips on August 19, 2016 at 11:56 PM

Eye candy for sure, Vance. Love this image. I appreciate that you have included an insight into your thought process here. It really helps set the scene. On the other hand, I kinda enjoy the mystery of not knowing any more than I'm seeing. I like to imagine how I might approach an image like this. I could only hope to put together something even approaching this, particularly in film. Outstanding in every way. One super small nit is that you have a white upper left corner. Hardly not worth mentioning, but easy to fix. Thanks for your kind comments on my last image.

Registered on October 24, 2013, 185 Posts, 4136 Comments

Comment posted by Dan Kearl on August 20, 2016 at 12:21 AM

The rim lighting just draws me in. The Background ocean/seastack vista is just superb....

Registered on September 2, 2013, 209 Posts, 1514 Comments

Comment posted by Harley Goldman on August 20, 2016 at 8:46 AM

Beautiful,Vance. The rich Provia blues are working well here. Lovely image. It might be my unbalanced personality, but it looks to my eye like it could use a slight CCW rotation? The surf line looks level, but looking at it overall I get that impression. Minor stuff, beautiful work.

Registered on November 19, 2003, 586 Posts, 11271 Comments

Comment posted by Ryan Shain on August 20, 2016 at 10:04 AM

Hi Vance,

This image is a truly superb work in photography. First, you vision in seeing this composition is excellent. Second, the way you saw how to process this image is wonderful. The image has such wonderful contrasts, and the mood is enchanting. The darks, blues, and hint of orange creates something that is very engaging as I view this wonderful work of art. Maybe a slight ccw rotation, but awesome work bro!

Registered on February 20, 2007, 226 Posts, 4571 Comments

Comment posted by Mark Seaver on August 21, 2016 at 9:42 AM

I'm thoroughly enjoying the mix of shape and subtle sky colors here, Vance. This is very blue and quite dark while still being very inviting. It's a beauty, Vance. The light edges around the pool are a terrific addition as the help emphasize it's shape.

Registered on January 23, 2011, 1103 Posts, 17270 Comments

Comment posted by Doug Koepsel on August 21, 2016 at 11:02 AM

The pattern in the sand around the front of the pool remind me of ice crystals. Nice.

Registered on April 1, 2010, 196 Posts, 1592 Comments

Comment posted by Bill Chambers on August 21, 2016 at 11:48 PM

Simply SUPERB Vance. Well done!

Registered on April 10, 2005, 753 Posts, 21216 Comments

Comment posted by Anil Rao on August 23, 2016 at 1:34 AM

This is a really strong image. I love the drama, both in the immediate foreground as well as at the horizon.

Registered on November 15, 2003, 234 Posts, 4923 Comments

Comment posted by Dave Dillemuth on August 23, 2016 at 11:07 AM

Awesome, Vance! I love the deep, rich colors. The comp. works extremely well to pull the eye through the frame. Very well sone.

Registered on December 10, 2015, 104 Posts, 1112 Comments

Comment posted by Kah Kit Yoong on August 25, 2016 at 6:03 AM

A dark beauty with a fine composition. I thought the foreground rendering a bit too contrasty for my tastes originally but it does bring out the highlights and contours nicely, so maybe not.

Registered on September 27, 2006, 636 Posts, 10682 Comments