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Archive 2008 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two
  
 
Steady Hand
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p.1 #1 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


#43 in a Series of Impressions Threads: "Flying Two"
_______________________________________________________

Impressions Image #43 "Flying Two"
http://www.steadmanuhlich.com/impressions43/index.html

Tell me what you see in his expression (facial and body) or the impression the overall image makes on you. Tell me if you prefer this image to the earlier image "Flying."

NOTE: This is a companion image (another exposure) of the infant boy shown in another Impressions thread "Flying." I am posting this image because I like his expression and I hope it brings you a little joy today. Just for fun and to share some good feelings or good will.

Here is a quotation I have always liked:

"The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things but their inward significance." ---- Aristotle

My Intent or Goal:
I wanted to create a fun portrait that captures a natural expression on this infant boy. He was a lot of fun and we all (parents, child, and me) enjoyed the session. In this image, I think it is easy to see that both the child and father are having fun together.

About the Subject (The Person in the Photo):
The infant boy is about 4 months old.

The Tech Tips:
My preference is for keeping the tools and their use very simple. The image is made with minimal equipment and processing. The lens was a 24-70mm with aperture of f8 and ISO 400. They are standing a few feet from a large window. . This was shot hand-held. The most important thing to "use" in a photo opportunity like this is patience and an open mind. Minimal processing.

What would I do differently?
While I usually would try to get the feet in a picture like this...I did not have the time to change my orientation of the camera and catch this fleeting expression. I was set for something else...and saw this. So...some images that derive their impact from a moment's expression may not fit the anticipated or preferred format/framing. In this case, the moment was the boy's expression. This image has not been cropped in order to show what the camera saw. A final print may involve cropping to a square or shorter rectangle to eliminate some but not all of the black space above the boy.

Notes:
1. This is an image I created for my clients (the couple). Also, this image looks very 3D in real life.

2. This is a greatly reduced file for the web. Unfortunately, the image appears to lose some details at this reduction and also is beginning to show some jpg artifacts from all the saving for different sizes and formats I use on the web and in other media. So...the skin does not look exactly as it does in the actual print. In the original print (which appears a little sharper), the individual eyelashes are distinct (as an example) and the skin has a completely natural texture. Viewed over the internet, the image appears softer and darker.

4. This is a companion image to "Flying."

_______________________________________________

Why is an Impressions Style Thread Used Here?

Short answer: To get a different kind of discussion going on a posted image, encourage lurkers to participate, and for the artist to learn something about the interpretations or impressions evoked by the image posted.

My Simple Suggestion for this forum: Contribute what you can in photographs, or comments or Impressions (as requested here) and this will be a richer viewing experience for everyone who visits.

IF you are a lurker, this type of thread is a very easy way for you to participate in the forum and you can contribute something and it can be fun. Go ahead and jump in. If you were a lurker before, let me know that too. I am hoping this type of discussion will get more people to participate here as that will enrich the forum.

I believe many people are just lurkers because they feel they cannot post "proof" of their expertise and they may be intimidated from posting anything that would not sound "smart enough" regarding photography and the technical aspects of it. I think the technical discussions are fine for those that want them (in their own threads). I also think there are many others who may not want to get technical and enjoy their photography a different way. This is NOT about technical stuff, so feel free to be poetic or "impressionistic" as that is encouraged.

The development of this new style of thread posting (Impressions) will give an opportunity to many people who do not feel comfortable discussing photos in technical terms.

This type of thread is NOT about technical things (that is "off topic" in this kind of thread), it is simply about how you "see" and "feel" things in the image shown. So, anyone from a rank beginner or newbie to an expert can participate on equal standing. Here is your chance.

A FUN Tip: It is more fun if you look at the image before reading any other Impressions posted by others. So take a look, get an impression, add your impression at the bottom (and please give your first name and city), and then take a minute to read some of the earlier postings. You might chuckle or smile as you see how others see the same image.
________________________________________________

How an Impressions Discussion Works:

This is the 35th Impressions Thread I have started in as many days. IF you have never read one of these before, please read the middle and bottom of this thread before viewing the photo or posting your comments.

This type of thread or discussion is NOT about technical critiques. IF you don't understand what I mean by "Impressions," simply spend a few minutes reading below or on the linked page where the image is shown. I give tips on this type of thread and answer some questions people have asked me here before.

I have put the link to the image closer to the top of this post to make it quick and easy to find. The other detailed text below the portrait introduction is for those who want to read it or need some guidance on this new approach to discussion threads here on the forum. Over time, I will reduce the amount of text as I believe others here on the forum begin to understand the intent of this type of discussion or "Impression" thread. You are encouraged to leave your Impressions (as described below) but I do ask that you leave "Impressions" as that is the topic. IF you missed the other earlier Impressions threads I started, simply look back in the forum or search for a thread with topics starting "Your Impression?" and you will find them.

IF you feel a need to debate the value of Impressions versus Technical Criticism, then please do not do it in this thread (as that is "off topic"), and instead do it in the thread where that debate IS the topic of discussion, here: http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/649345

You might also enjoy reading the different "Impressions about Impressions" thread here:
http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/653643

It is very simple. Here is my request: To add positive value to this thread or discussion, please share your "Impressions" of the figure or face or expression or action or "total image" in the photo you see. Put very simply: "What do you see or sense?" Also, please tell me your First Name + City when you give me your Impression. That is important for my Global Impressions Project (A few paragraphs describing my project are found on the page linked to the image page. You will find it on the second page if you want to know more.)

Also, I encourage you to post your own "Impressions" thread with a photo some time. Reading the variety of Impressions is very satisfying and helpful to any artist who is interested in how a work of art (photo) affects a viewer or viewers. So, try it some time. My Simple Suggestion: Place the word "Impression" as the first word of your topic title for the thread and then people will know you want Impressions rather than technical criticism. The rest is up to you.

Edited on Jul 06, 2008 at 08:31 PM


Jul 06, 2008 at 08:17 PM
liamh
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p.1 #2 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Hi Steady,

Your picture made me smile. It also jogged my memory of when I once held my first son like that.

It was an unusually warm night in early May, 1997. It was around 2:00AM, he was less than a month old and I was doing the night time feed because his mother was too tired. I'd been awake for nearly fifty hours, working hard during the day, looking after the new arrival at night. On the TV, the results from the national elections were coming in thick and fast and I could feel the heavy hand of history upon my shoulder.

After 18 years of Tory rule we finally had hope as Blair, and New Labour were swept into office on a wave of euphoria and optimism. The TV pictures cut to wild celebrations of people dancing, waving flags and hugging each other.

The Tories were gone.

I walked out onto my rooftop terrace with its panoramic view of London. In the distance I could hear the faint chorus of "Things Can Only Get Better" as it drifted across the Thames from the official celebrations.

With a slight tear in my eye, I raised my young son aloft and cried "YES" as loud as I could.

Now, eleven years later, I sit in my rather tired house, mortgaged to hilt, with negative equity and a recession to look forward to. The government is in turmoil, the dream is gone. We realize as a nation that all that glitters is not gold and I get paid to take photographs and make films for the Tories as they march ever faster back to office.

It's a funny old world, but at least I can smile about it

Jul 06, 2008 at 09:19 PM
Steady Hand
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p.1 #3 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Hello Liam.

That is an interesting story. I enjoyed reading it and the details.

I am glad you posted it and I am also glad the image made you smile.

Thanks for sharing your view, experience, and impression with us.

Jul 06, 2008 at 09:34 PM
GillR
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p.1 #4 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Absolutely delightful, it made me smile, too! I prefer this second shot because you can see Dad properly and you can see his strong connection with the baby.

Jul 06, 2008 at 10:28 PM
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p.1 #5 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Hi Steadman,

There is no doubt that this image will make every viewer smile. My impression is of happiness, happiness that can only be felt, and never described. Derek of Dayton, Ohio.

Jul 06, 2008 at 11:04 PM
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p.1 #6 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Both are nice...I guess I'm differant but I like the first best....the baby's look and eyes grab ya....the second is also very nice...If I was the parents I would have to
buy both....L...Robert

Jul 07, 2008 at 12:20 AM
Steady Hand
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p.1 #7 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Hello All...I have been away for a few days.

Gill:
Thanks for adding your comments. I know what you mean about seeing the dad too and the connection is a nice image element...I agree.

Derek:
Good words..."happiness that can only be felt..." I liked reading that. Thanks for adding your Impression too.

Robert:
Yes...those eyes and expression do grab me too. Thanks for participating in the discussion.

Jul 09, 2008 at 05:44 PM
bellissimogirl
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p.1 #8 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Great expression on the baby's face. I also like the position of the father, he is turned enough to keep the focus on the baby, yet still visible enough to see his interaction with the child. Nicely done, as always.


Jul 09, 2008 at 05:55 PM
Steady Hand
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p.1 #9 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


bellissimogirl wrote:
Great expression on the baby's face. I also like the position of the father, he is turned enough to keep the focus on the baby, yet still visible enough to see his interaction with the child. Nicely done, as always.


Thanks for adding your comments. I agree about the visible interaction with the father.



Jul 09, 2008 at 06:47 PM
MichBeck
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p.1 #10 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


It made me smile and the expression on the baby's face is priceless.
You captured a great moment of a proud father. Although I can't really see the father's facial expression, I can feel how much he loves his baby.

Greets Michael

Jul 10, 2008 at 09:07 PM
 



Steady Hand
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p.1 #11 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


MichBeck wrote:
It made me smile and the expression on the baby's face is priceless.
You captured a great moment of a proud father. Although I can't really see the father's facial expression, I can feel how much he loves his baby.

Greets Michael


Hi Michael,

Welcome to the Impressions discussions. You are the first person to participate from Austria!

Thanks for adding your nice to read impression. I am glad the image made you smile.

Good light to you.

Please send me a PM with your City.



Jul 10, 2008 at 10:15 PM
thai626
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p.1 #12 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Hi steady hand,

I also like this one better than the first. I think the position of the father's head was much better positioned in the photograph. It was a nice capture of both the baby and the father. I also prefer it because color was more my preference. Nice shot!

Jul 10, 2008 at 10:24 PM
Steady Hand
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p.1 #13 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


thai626 wrote:
Hi steady hand,

I also like this one better than the first. I think the position of the father's head was much better positioned in the photograph. It was a nice capture of both the baby and the father. I also prefer it because color was more my preference. Nice shot!



Thanks.

Jul 10, 2008 at 10:28 PM
bryanlindsey
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p.1 #14 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


My impression? They have the same haircut! ;-)

Bryan

Nov 19, 2008 at 07:56 PM
Steady Hand
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p.1 #15 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


bryanlindsey wrote:
My impression? They have the same haircut! ;-)

Bryan


I know what you mean.

I usually call this one "Like Father, Like Son."

Nov 19, 2008 at 08:08 PM
bob parrish
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p.1 #16 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Steady,

I see unbridled joy on the face of the child, and the father two. This portrait reminds me of how I felt when my daughters were little.

Anyone who doesn't smile when they see this picture is probably dead.

Bob

Nov 20, 2008 at 04:27 AM
HeatherCKing
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p.1 #17 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


absolutely beautiful, Steady! The baby's expression made me feel all warm and fuzzy : )

Nov 20, 2008 at 10:20 AM
Steady Hand
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p.1 #18 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


bob parrish wrote:
Steady,

I see unbridled joy on the face of the child, and the father two. This portrait reminds me of how I felt when my daughters were little.

Anyone who doesn't smile when they see this picture is probably dead.

Bob



Thanks Bob.

I am glad it brought back a pleasant memory for you.

That last line of yours....

Nov 20, 2008 at 01:56 PM
Steady Hand
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p.1 #19 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


HeatherCKing wrote:
absolutely beautiful, Steady! The baby's expression made me feel all warm and fuzzy : )


Hi Heather,

Thanks for adding your impression too.

I am always glad to make someone feel "good" with an image and that this image made you feel "warm and fuzzy" is a "good thing."

I understand. This image always makes me smile when I see it.



Nov 20, 2008 at 01:57 PM
PeaktoPeek
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p.1 #20 · Your Impressions? #43 Flying Two


Steady,

I just realized its been awhile since I commented on one of these....I find myself relating to the father in this image a great deal. I am not a father myself, but my girlfriend has a 2 year old daughter that I have grown very fond of and she projects the same joy on her face when I make her "fly". In fact I toss her up until my arms ache because its just so cute when she says "again" after I catch her. I also find myself looking toward the future and hoping that one day I can enjoy all of the feelings that come with being a father myself. So this image has really elicited some happy and hopeful feelings quite effectively.
Paul

Nov 20, 2008 at 02:41 PM
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