* Wed C&C (No Theme) Thread, Ed. 244 December/12/2012 *

a Chap wrote:

Hello Lou,

I have been greatly enjoying your pictures of Haarlem recently. They have made me keen to return to your country and visit the city for the first time, as although I have heard only good things I have regrettably not stopped by before. Is this lovely bridge there too?

Nicely composed picture with depth in my opinion, from the leading line of the rail to the perspective and angle of view on the bridge, the balance of the right hand house and the bench (?) in the bottom right stopping us from falling in the water without being distracting. Well seen. It is a shame that the facia of the middle house has been decapitated, perhaps half a step forward and half a mm wider would have avoided this. Have you considered correcting the keystoning? I think this might add to the result.

There are elements from your processing that I like. The yellow/orange splashes both highlight and add interest as well as direction, although I think the one on the upper left egde only serves to draw the eye out of the frame. All of the rendering in the bottom right corner I find very attractive. However, overall I think that it detracts from the overall picture because it muddies and obscures the wonderful bridge that you felt compelled to image, and flattens the perspective you've created so well. Having said this, I think you're right in that it is a picture that will stand heavy processing, but maybe keep a mindful eye on the main subject.

Hope this helps,

Best wishes,