I see elements of a classic still life painting along with a more modern approach, particularly the way the elements seem to be propped up. Only the pear on the left is unambiguous about which way is down. All of the shapes and lines are beautifully positioned and balanced. The extreme gradient of light on the background is perfect for the high texture rendering of the fruit and baskets. It all works great!
Fabulous shot, as always. Jim! Beautiful composition. If I have any complaint it would be a certain harshness in the lighting that may simply be a result of the bright color temperature of the various fruit. To my eyes it appears to have been lit by studio lights (which, of course, it probably was). But I imagine the goal of studio lighting is to simulate natural light whenever possible. I'm sure you understand the distinction. Anyway, I'm simply picking nits on what is clearly the highest level photograph.
Jess, you nailed what I was trying to accomplish. Your comments make me feel so successful - because someone got it (you). I wanted a blend of classic and modern. After this classic style one failed to even make the finals,,,I wanted to try something different. The linked one hangs 13 x 16 in my kitchen and is simply gorgeous - if I do say so myself. This one will end up in the kitchen too. It's all a matter of taste...some will like it, others not. Thank you for taking the time to post...
Jim
Photon wrote:
I see elements of a classic still life painting along with a more modern approach, particularly the way the elements seem to be propped up. Only the pear on the left is unambiguous about which way is down. All of the shapes and lines are beautifully positioned and balanced. The extreme gradient of light on the background is perfect for the high texture rendering of the fruit and baskets. It all works great!
It is different Endre - but it is as I intended. BTW...I did respond to your query in the MA about lighting equipment, but that forum seems to have a different way of ordering threads than the other forums. I have had a lot on my mind of late, and posting has had to take a back seat here - other than the assignments themselves. Thanks for the comments!
Strad wrote:
Fabulous shot, as always. Jim! Beautiful composition. If I have any complaint it would be a certain harshness in the lighting that may simply be a result of the bright color temperature of the various fruit. To my eyes it appears to have been lit by studio lights (which, of course, it probably was). But I imagine the goal of studio lighting is to simulate natural light whenever possible. I'm sure you understand the distinction. Anyway, I'm simply picking nits on what is clearly the highest level photograph.
Jim, I love the still life that you linked to, and this one as well. We learn from the discipline of the assignments and from people's reactions, but when it comes to the end product we need to be our own judges. I'm really glad that you can hang these with pride. There's a benefit to being self-critical, but also value in understanding the worth of your creativity. We need to believe in ourselves in order to keep growing!
James Markus wrote:
Jess, you nailed what I was trying to accomplish. Your comments make me feel so successful - because someone got it (you). I wanted a blend of classic and modern. After this classic style one failed to even make the finals,,,I wanted to try something different. The linked one hangs 13 x 16 in my kitchen and is simply gorgeous - if I do say so myself. This one will end up in the kitchen too. It's all a matter of taste...some will like it, others not. Thank you for taking the time to post...
Jim
