A Study in Black and White - January 2012

How I Did It 

COMMENTS:

Marti Buckely	This is a nice "fine art" image and perhaps even a strong monochrome competition image.  My only two (minor) comments are with the rather harsh white background and that the right side starts to blend in with that background.  Maybe a little tinge of gray instead of pure white for the background?
Dianne Glick	I like what you have done with this flower.  You are very methodical, using just the right components to get a perfect image.  My only problem is that it looks totally stark to me.  I would like to see some softness in the background, and perhaps the flower itself could be tilted a bit?  I like it a lot, but my eye needs things to be a bit off center.
Jo-Ann Devine	I think this fits the category of “fine art”. Good lighting and shading on the flower is attractive. Nice and sharp.
Nancy Brown	Terrific detail and definitely should be centered.  Just darken the corners a bit to keep our eyes on the flower, and maybe a touch more contrast?  Otherwise, lovely!
Joe Zaia	You did well with your setup Larry. The composition is simple and effective. I enjoy looking at this. The totally even-white background is a bit distracting, but at the same time, it makes the flower stand out, so, it must be a good thing. Also, the black and white tones look good to me.
Bob Yelle	By golly, Larry, it seems as if you have succeeded in creating a fine art flower.  I like everything about this flower from technique to the final image.  Good choice using NIK filters.  The flower is beautiful.
Larry's Reply:

Member Bio - Larry Hegstad

Photography has been a source of enjoyment since 1959 when I acquired a Kodak Retina Reflex S.  That camera was replaced by a Nikon F which I still own.  Since that time my involvement has been mainly sports photography (collegiate level) and travel photography. I migrated to digital about five years ago.  I enjoy using Photoshop, Photomatix, Nik Silver Efex, and Corel Painter.  My goal in the near future is to take advantage of my Pacific Northwest environs and learn to better interpret its beauty through photography.