Yes, I noticed. Makes the aspens really pop. I am not a big fan of luminosity masks but that's what it may take to push this further if you are so inclined.
The raw files for 90% of my images look like crap. Chances are that if it looks good in camera it is very difficult to process. I intentionally shoot with a neutral flat profile because it reduces the chance of clipping and gives lots of latitude.
The type of image you had on your hands is perfect for shooting in flat light. Otherwise the pines will stand out too much and dilute the impact of the aspens.
Ross Martin wrote:
Thank you, Boyan! After reading your comment I went back in and dropped blacks further and increased whites more and decreased luminance on pines, and I reposted the new image. It’s not yet to the point you suggested but it did help the aspens pop more (I may play with it more later). So now I’m at -77 on blacks and +57 on whites in addition to +20 on clarity, and these are (for my aesthetic style) huge processing moves that I almost never have to make. Check out the raw file screenshot to see how crappy the original is - I was shooting a large distance away through atmosphere with 400mm in totally dead flat light at end of day:...Show more →
Karl Witt wrote:
Such a wonderful eye Ross to compose these images. Visually stunning images, you really have a great way to express what you see, on your back is really mind bending!
I could go on about each, instead I will contribute my vote
Ross, looks like you had an amazing outing this autumn and captured some spectacular images. It’s a beautiful set, but the last two really stand out for me — such gorgeous colors! Easy vote from me. Thanks for sharing.
keepclicking wrote:
Ross, looks like you had an amazing outing this autumn and captured some spectacular images. It’s a beautiful set, but the last two really stand out for me — such gorgeous colors! Easy vote from me. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks much, Parul! It’s been an amazing photo trip so far and I’m incredibly grateful for the blessings. I have more work to do in southern Utah canyon country and other destinations and will return home mid-December.
CDalessandro wrote:
WOW! WOW! WOW! Well worth the miles, Ross. Stunning work!
Carol
Thank you very much, Carol! I don’t think I have driven so much in such a short period of time. After a month on the road since leaving home I was at 6,500 miles.
