I haven’t really taken that many landscape photographs so I am certainly open to (and expecting) the usual excellent advice and suggestions on this one!
This is a very traditional scene around Spain, the white villages set back in the mountain with just the one road in and the one road out. This was actually taken from the ‘back garden’ of our friends who live a very interesting life in the mountains with something like 14 cats and 7 dogs. Their place is only accessible via the roughest of dirt tracks, and really does have the most spectacular views.
What I wanted to achieve with this picture was to portray the locations of the villages in the mountains and the way that they were stepped into the side of the mountains. I didn’t want to alter the colour too much as it is a pretty true reflection of the way it actually is.
It made sense to crop out the over hanging branches as far as I could see, but the ones at the bottom really had to remain for the balance of the shot, as I wanted to retain the bridge at the bottom.
On a side note, one time we visited the bridge was closed for construction and the only option was to go through the village and use the old goat tracks through the ravine – interesting to say the very least.
Original Photograph
You can download it here
I actually like both versions of this one, though I see why you cropped it. I love photos like this that tell a whole lot of info in one. Like, what is in the area beyond the village, to be curious? That and, all roads, (goat tracks, etc.) lead to the most awesome little village.
Personally I like the original better. It gives a better view on the whole village and beyond. I think by cropping you took away half the story of the village. I like the original and I’m sticking to it. Then again, it’s just my opinion. I’m curious if I’m the only one.
Nope, Mac. I think I was saying the same. I like both, but I do like the original.
I think even I prefer the original, but I thought the revised one made for a better picture.
Maybe not 🙁
It’s all in the Eye of the Beholder. Some people like some don’t. I can’t really coment on the technical points, as you know I’m just an amateur, but I can comment on what i like. Same with my photos on 4Frames. Some people really like them, and some do not. it all comes down to what you like. What is pleasing to your eye. When I look at my photos i try to make them to what I would like, what feels good to me. Not everyone has to subscribe to my point of view. I find that when taking photos I do not think in technical terms, just go with the flow man… 🙂
@Mac. You’re not fooling anyone you know. You are one of the best photographers I know, and saying otherwise isn’t going to change that! Your nature photos and up–close pictures are some of the greatest. Although I don’t say it on 4Frames and often as I should, I love your pictures!
I encourage anyone who hasn’t seen it jump over to http://www.4framesofmind.com and check out Macs Frame North section, then tell me he can’t comment on technical points! 🙂
@Wayne… oh shucks… thank you for the kind words. Since there are no feed back on 4Frames I did not know I was doing a good job 🙂
Again thank you.
I prefer the original too. I think that the full bridge in the foreground and the added landscape in the background make the overall composition more impressive and imposing.
Hmm I guess I’m not alone 🙂
Appreciate all the comments guys, can’t argue with them so I wont!!
I do endorse Wayne’s comments on Mr hide is light under the bushel Mac though – he is an awesome photographer in my mind …… now where’s that cheque you promised me 🙂
As they say over here…. there cheque is in the mail 🙂 Really appreciate the comments on my pictures. Made me blush 🙂
Light is everything in landscapes. This might be an interesting image at sunrise/set. If you can get back there at the golden hours, do it.
Good idea Ben, will be good to go back and revist!
Just seen 4framesfomind site for the first time. Really impressive stuff from all involved. Congrats!
Thanks on behalf of the other 3, all of whom make me look like a total novice!
@Dunks – Thanks really appreciate it.
@Chris – Oh come off it. You just as good as any of us.