Went to a friend's Anglo-Indian wedding reception yesterday and this is an image of one of the dances. It is, evidently, part of a traditional Temple Dance and the attraction for me comes on different levels; firstly I was bowled over by the beauty of the dance and, indeed, the dancers, they were amazing to watch! Secondly the sheer energy, which I hope the picture conveys, was staggering. The third level of attraction was the chemistry that the three dancers had between them, you could immediately tell that they not only enjoyed the dance but were completely one as a dancing entity—beautiful. It was interesting that before they took to the floor a request was made that as this was a Temple dance the dancers would appreciate it if no alcohol was drunk during the dance; the realization that what we were witnessing was essentially a spiritual act was very powerful for me, (the request, incidentally, was honoured by all 200 guests).
I hope you like the image, please feel free to comment.
Edited by Benedictine on Nov 04, 2007 at 02:06 PM GMT (Reason: Resize)
Beautiful shot, Andrew, my friend! I love the abstract quality. You've certainly captured an amazing moment. I think it might benefit from a teensy levels adjustment to make it a tad brighter. I think it would really pop then. Whatever you do with it, it's a great shot!
Thanks Endre and Beverley that is really helpful, the alchemy of processing is a whole new world to me! How's this? Is it better, which do you prefer the original or this one?
I like that the guy in the background shows up better in this brighter adjustment, and while Endre has a point about the richness factor I think either image works for different reasons. Maybe you could compromise and split the difference and wind up with an image somewhere between the darker and this lighter? Nice work!
Thanks again to you both for your comments, decided to leave it as it is I think. Really appreciate your help, I feel I have learnt from this and that is great.
This is a very interesting abstract, with great color and motion. The emotion is well captured, too. Beautifully done!
I noticed in your profile that you are a Benedictine oblate. My dad graduated High School from Subiaco Academy, a Benedictine school for boys in Paris, Arkansas. A wonderful bunch of teachers, and so kind. They stayed in touch for years and years, but most of them are gone now. (Dad's 84.)
Hi Philly,
Thanks for your comments and it was interesting to hear about your dad, the Benedictine family is a very special thing. Very pleased that you like the photograph.
Regards & best wishes.
