weekly The Excluded Middle Bearairs 52 The Dogwood Challenge

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Baloo

Baloo

Pleurodelinae and proud
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Roger
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Pretentious BS ahead alert.(In logic, the law of excluded middle (or the principle of excluded middle) states that for any proposition, either that proposition is true or its negation is true. My aim is to produce photography that is neither true nor false. Then one day produce it well!)

In the course of this year it is my intention to complete the Dogwood Photographic Challenge a Facebook based 52. It is a little more involved that the TP 52 from which I have been excluded. I do not just intend to put the photographs here but also comment on the process and some of my thoughts on how the challenge works and how it compares with the 52 I did last year. I find that a 52 gives a good structure to your photography especially if like me you are a jack of all trades and master of none. Who knows as my journey in photography continues I might find myself specialising in one or two types of photography as many do, but at the moment I am happy to explore. On this page I will have thumbnails of all the 52 photographs with a link to the post with that picture on. Hopefully if anyone is interested they can just click on the link and go straight to the page.
Link Link Link Link Link Link Link
 
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First subject was a self portrait without showing your face, did think about a shot that involved a distant me on a particularly desolate beach, however I have always had a great interest in Animal Symbolism in Mythology so decided to do something different. The picture was taken with the processing in mind so I used spot metering on the bird and even then underexposed by two stops. This gives the blown highlights that I wanted for the picture with a bit of processing in LR, I also used the edit brush to keep the correct exposure on the eye which I wanted.
[url=https://flic.kr/p/RXmmfW]Rook-1.jpg by R Hillman, on Flickr[/URL]
 
Hi Roger, I'm glad you found another challenge to follow this year as some of your ideas in last year's 52 were excellent.

I think you've achieved everything you set out to in this image, which is always a rewarding feeling. You have given it a distant and slightly mysterious atmosphere from the processing and the way the bird is above and looking off to the side.

Good luck with the Dogwood 52; I agree that this sort of challenge can be a good learning experience as well as giving you a structure to work within.
 
GarethB said:
Super shot Roger, I love the processing too.
The grain works very well.
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Thanks Gareth for taking the time to pop in and comment.
Manxmaid said:
Hi Roger, I'm glad you found another challenge to follow this year as some of your ideas in last year's 52 were excellent.

I think you've achieved everything you set out to in this image, which is always a rewarding feeling. You have given it a distant and slightly mysterious atmosphere from the processing and the way the bird is above and looking off to the side.

Good luck with the Dogwood 52; I agree that this sort of challenge can be a good learning experience as well as giving you a structure to work within.
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Thanks Andrea really appreciate your comments.

This weeks challenge is to use the rule of thirds to show motion.

I found some incredible pictures for inspiration of catching frozen motion.

https://mymodernmet.com/best-dance-...NEczz7UpYuwbKphfVNotRK_YfFQCFKifGoH-f6WcrVY8Y
 
I Like it Roger, the processing really make the image and the vignette works well. Compostion with the crow looking back into the picture is spot on.

Pete
 
seaodyssey said:
I Like it Roger, the processing really make the image and the vignette works well. Compostion with the crow looking back into the picture is spot on.

Pete
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Thank you Pete, I really appreciate you popping in to comment and your kind words.
 
Been really unwell for the last few weeks with heart problems, not been able to get out and complete week 2, but I did manage to get out today and complete week 3 which was Inspiration Black and White. I headed for the old pier in Weston Super Mare wanting to used the textures and contrast of this wonderful old building. I wasn't surprised that I was followed by a Rook!
Old Pier With Rook by R Hillman, on Flickr
 
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Hi Roger.

This is a tremendously compelling image.
Such great contrast, works perfectly as B&W.
I think the rook really tops off an already first class image...is it the same one I wonder?!:D

Sorry to hear about your health problems Roger.
Hope you feel better soon.
(y)
 
GarethB said:
Hi Roger.

This is a tremendously compelling image.
Such great contrast, works perfectly as B&W.
I think the rook really tops off an already first class image...is it the same one I wonder?!:D

Sorry to hear about your health problems Roger.
Hope you feel better soon.
(y)
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Thanks Gareth, it is amazing how many of my photographs get photobombed by rooks! Do do do........................................., hums theme to twilight zone to myself!;)

Manxmaid said:
Glad you're getting about again, Roger. I like the 'off balance' feel of this one, with the different angles of the various planks and railings, and your B&W processing works well to bring out the textures. Do you get to go back and take week 2, or have you missed the chance now?
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Hi Andrea, yes I can go back and do week 2 when I am fit enough. There are well over 1000 people doing this, last year over 100 finished, I do miss the intimacy of the 52 and the banter we used to have on the discussion page. I also think the standard of photography is amazing, with some really stunning images on the Dogwood.
If you are on facebook check it out here, https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogwood.52.challenge/
 
Another Compelling shot Roger.
I like the contrast you have achieved and the crow has followed you, hope he is not the bringer of your recent health problem, which I'm glad you are getting over.
What happened to the sea in the middle of the shot, it appears to be smudged or partly erased?
I did not know WSM had 2 piers. Walked along the front last summer, but did not get that far.

Pete
 
Sorry to hear you have been unwell mate and wish you a speedy recovery, plus sorry I`m late to comment too.
The first image is a really good shot as it could of come out of a horror movie, really does suit the PP treatment you gave it.
The second image is yet another well taken and edited shot and having the Rook in the frame as well makes it another good one from you. I have now marked to watch your thread as will follow and gladly comment.
 
seaodyssey said:
Another Compelling shot Roger.
I like the contrast you have achieved and the crow has followed you, hope he is not the bringer of your recent health problem, which I'm glad you are getting over.
What happened to the sea in the middle of the shot, it appears to be smudged or partly erased?
I did not know WSM had 2 piers. Walked along the front last summer, but did not get that far.

Pete
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Thanks Dave, if you visit WSM again it is well worth getting down to the derelict Birnbeck Pier.

Dave70D said:
Sorry to hear you have been unwell mate and wish you a speedy recovery, plus sorry I`m late to comment too.
The first image is a really good shot as it could of come out of a horror movie, really does suit the PP treatment you gave it.
The second image is yet another well taken and edited shot and having the Rook in the frame as well makes it another good one from you. I have now marked to watch your thread as will follow and gladly comment.
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Thanks Dave I am feeling a good deal better, so hope to be out and about a bit more, thanks for coming over and if your happy for me to comment on your 52 I would like to.
 
So week four "Storytelling. Use an image to show warmth," hopefully I have achieved that with this shot. Both with the warming cup of tea and the warmth in the smile.
Warmth by R Hillman, on Flickr
To be honest I dread photographing people! But put my big boy pants on to give it a go.
 
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Super image with such a compelling story Roger.(y)
It's a joy to look at - you have definitely achieved the portrayal of warmth in both senses!

I am another who shies away from people photography....I'm very interested in it, but always get scared and give up!
"What's the worst that can happen?" - is where my thoughts usually start.
"A punch in the mouth!" - is generally where my thoughts end up!!

May I borrow your big-boy pants Roger?!:LOL:
 
Hi Roger

Nice Image, nice smile, the thick coat and the hot drink imply warmth. Watch your backgrounds, the white line while does not distract too much, but if it was lower could be seen as a death ray coming from her eyes. B&W conversion works well as does the OOF background. :)

Pete
 
Dave70D said:
Warmth is a very good image Roger, IMO I think you nailed it too. She has the warmth of being wrapped up well in this cold and also having a warm drink, the plus being the steam coming out of the mug.
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Manxmaid said:
That's absolutely spot on, Roger. I avoid photographing people too, but you achieved the double warmth you were aiming for with the steam rising from the cup and that lovely smile (y)
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d00d said:
.... good 'n tight in the frame ... I like it.
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GarethB said:
Super image with such a compelling story Roger.(y)
It's a joy to look at - you have definitely achieved the portrayal of warmth in both senses!

I am another who shies away from people photography....I'm very interested in it, but always get scared and give up!
"What's the worst that can happen?" - is where my thoughts usually start.
"A punch in the mouth!" - is generally where my thoughts end up!!

May I borrow your big-boy pants Roger?!:LOL:
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seaodyssey said:
Hi Roger

Nice Image, nice smile, the thick coat and the hot drink imply warmth. Watch your backgrounds, the white line while does not distract too much, but if it was lower could be seen as a death ray coming from her eyes. B&W conversion works well as does the OOF background. :)

Pete
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Sorry I have not replied folks been in and out of hospital, but out for the weekend now. Thank you all for the kind comments and advice which I shall be taking on board.

As you may have noticed Bearair is now Baloo, my old nickname from school!:)
 
So allowed out and went straight to one of my favourite spots Newquay boating lake, and guess who was there waiting for me!
Week 2 Rule of Thirds Motion.
An interesting subject and quite challenging, using the rule of thirds to compose a picture that shows motion. I had intended to do a surfing shot but unfortunately I could not get out to take one. However at the boating lake my constant companion provided the inspiration! I purchased a Panasonic 100-400 over christmas and it is proving to be a excellent lens already, still need to learn how to use it, but I am pleased with this.
[url=https://flic.kr/p/QZsKsF]Rule of Thirds Motion.-1.jpg by R Hillman, on Flickr[/URL]
 
Roger

Glad they let you out, should be a nice weekend.
Your old mate co-operated very well for you. I take it the M shaped thing is a "Work of Art" with seagulls standing on the wings.
Like the blue against the pale yellow.

Pete
 
Excellent, well timed image.(y)
That rook must be a familiar, old friend by now!

Those gulls on the wings of the swan sculpture are a nice touch too.

There are two streams of disturbed water along the bottom third, to the left....behind the rook.
They are quite curious. Any idea what made them?
Was it your rooks downwash from it's wings I wonder?
Whatever they are, they certainly conform to the 'rule of thirds/motion' theme.
Nicely done Roger, glad you're up and about again.(y)
 
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Glad you're up and around again, Roger. Hope everything's OK.

At first glance I thought that was a bird flying head-on with extravagantly curved wings, but then I spotted the gulls sitting on top! It looks like an interesting sculpture or feature of the park. The light is warm and has lit the background with some lovely colours, and it's great to see your old friend stealing the scene and providing a moving target for your challenge; there's definitely a theme developing with you and your rooks!
 
Dave70D said:
Rule of Thirds is a very nice image Roger, really do love how you got the wings to an M shape, nice to catch the other bird too plus the ripples in the water.
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Thank you Dave, the M bird is a sculpture in the boating lake, I love it, others hate it.
seaodyssey said:
Roger

Glad they let you out, should be a nice weekend.
Your old mate co-operated very well for you. I take it the M shaped thing is a "Work of Art" with seagulls standing on the wings.
Like the blue against the pale yellow.

Pete
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Thank you Pete always enjoy your kind comments.
dmb said:
That looks an interesting group, may think about having a go too :thinking:
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It is ok, but with over 1000 pics every week it can be a bit mind boggling!
GarethB said:
Excellent, well timed image.(y)
That rook must be a familiar, old friend by now!

Those gulls on the wings of the swan sculpture are a nice touch too.

There are two streams of disturbed water along the bottom third, to the left....behind the rook.
They are quite curious. Any idea what made them?
Was it your rooks downwash from it's wings I wonder?
Whatever they are, they certainly conform to the 'rule of thirds/motion' theme.
Nicely done Roger, glad you're up and about again.(y)
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The water is from a fountain in the lake, it was a very lucky shot for the rook to fly along them looking like it had skimmed the water. Or I can now mind control them, do do do do........................!
Manxmaid said:
Glad you're up and around again, Roger. Hope everything's OK.

At first glance I thought that was a bird flying head-on with extravagantly curved wings, but then I spotted the gulls sitting on top! It looks like an interesting sculpture or feature of the park. The light is warm and has lit the background with some lovely colours, and it's great to see your old friend stealing the scene and providing a moving target for your challenge; there's definitely a theme developing with you and your rooks!
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Thank you Andrea, it really was a very lucky shot!
 
So upward and onward, went to the hospital today and they let me home this evening, big thanks yet again to the staff at Treliske!
Week 5 Symmetry in the Landscape. Boy have I struggled with this, had loads of ideas but was not happy with anything. Settled on this and it is a bit of a shoehorn.
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2dn4CQ6]Symmetry-1-3.jpg by R Hillman, on Flickr[/URL]
 
And so to week 6 basically any picture you like but no filters, cropping etc, what you shoot in the camera, you stick with! Panic but...but...but..... I love the processing part! Ok so well out of my comfort zone and just to make it harder for myself I wanted to produce an image that looked like it had filters on or had been played around with, because I am weird like that! Out came the beloved Meyer and I knew the sort of shot I wanted. Ta Da I give you Daffodil, absolutely pure with no cropping or exposure compensation, this one is "straight out the can" I am rather pleased with it. Really would appreciate your hardest criticism on this, I have a feeling I might look at shots with the Meyer through rose tinted glasses!
[url=https://flic.kr/p/R19vwK]Inspiration No Filter-1.jpg by R Hillman, on Flickr[/URL]
 
So this week is Storytelling a love story, boy am I struggling. All I can think of is my arm around my motorbike!
 
Hi Roger

Week 5 Symmetry in the Landscape, it must have been blowing a right old gale as the Turbine is leaning backwards, apart from that it is using colour well, the white against the sky. A nice simple symmetrical image.

Daffodil, you have managed to give it an intersting effect for straight out of the camera.. I like the bold yellow highlighting the image against the blurred rest of the picture.

Pete
 
seaodyssey said:
Hi Roger

Week 5 Symmetry in the Landscape, it must have been blowing a right old gale as the Turbine is leaning backwards, apart from that it is using colour well, the white against the sky. A nice simple symmetrical image.

Daffodil, you have managed to give it an intersting effect for straight out of the camera.. I like the bold yellow highlighting the image against the blurred rest of the picture.

Pete
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Thank you Pete for your comments. Will go an headbutt the windmill straight!;)
 
Two shots that look perfect for their themes, Roger. The turbine looks isolated in the countryside and stands out well in a very simple but effective images, with the block of sky, the low block of green and the central column. The daffodil is really bright and colourful and although I'm not sure if I like the round balls of bokeh I do like the soft 'glow' around the petals. Good work to get that look SOOC (y)
 
Manxmaid said:
Two shots that look perfect for their themes, Roger. The turbine looks isolated in the countryside and stands out well in a very simple but effective images, with the block of sky, the low block of green and the central column. The daffodil is really bright and colourful and although I'm not sure if I like the round balls of bokeh I do like the soft 'glow' around the petals. Good work to get that look SOOC (y)
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Thank you, I like the bokeh bubbles but understand it is a marmite thing!
Dave70D said:
Even though the turbine is slightly leaning I do like it Roger as it fits well for your choice. The daffodil is a cracking image as I totally love the softness in the image.
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The turbine is dead straight, it is the photographer that is skewiiff!:p
I love that meyer lens ten quid from a charity shop!
 
Dave70D said:
Story Telling is a good title for this image Roger, I spotted the couple right off. It goes well in mono and you got some good detail in the clouds.
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Thank you Dave, I hoped the shiny surf would lead the eye to the couple.
 
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