Thank you all for the kind posts on the "Eden" shot. I feel better about this entry. I hope you do to. Before there was "Eden" there was "Freedom of Choice".
From the thumbnail I knew it was yours! (though I was puzzled first,
since I had seen your earlier entry already) You really have a unique
lighting style. Well done with the blade. And the bottom-right light
counter-balances nicely.
Another great entry. Wish I had your problem this week. I am more partial to the other entry although this is perfect in every detail as I look at it. I am guilty of a sin this week ENVY!
I like both of your shots. Colour and tone here is excellent. I'm rubbish at interpretting stuff, so is this saying embracing the knife is not being true to the bible? Sinners chose the bible over the knife, or the other way around? Told you I was rubbish.
Anyway, Matron says I should stop blathering and commend you on a finalist shot.
Flibble, It is more than welcome to interpretation. That is what I would hope but my message was a simple one of choice, the knife representing "evil" and the Bible representing the "good". I guess I was trying to portray the basis of "sin" rather than a literal representation of the word.
Mike, I had a rather gruesome interpretation which I will just share. "Choice" mixed up with "Freedom" led me to abortion rights. There is the knife or the bible.... Enough!! Obviously a powerful image.
Perhaps "Freedom of Choice" also refers to the openness to interpretation as well.
I think in your pursuit of portraying the basis of sin, rather than a literal interpretation is simply excellently done. A classy, timeless image.
I do, however, have one critique. This seems to be a non-denominational, timeless image, except for one thing. The statement of "New International Version" seems to stand out, almost competing with the Bibles real title/intention. Perhaps for this image it would be advantageous to remove the translation information? Merely my opinion though, these just keep getting better!
Thanks Al and Patty for sharing your thoughts. Jason, I had to agree on the binding text "New International Version" as well. Thank you for reinforcing my initial concern. I have removed it from the image. Thanks guys!
This is an absolutely amazing shot. I have seen your work before and always thought it was great... amazing even, but this is goes beyond your usual brillance. Your lighting, composition is always great, but the symbols you chose to portray the subject (and theme) are perfect.
Nice shot though
.