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[OM] Re: Background Distractions

Subject: [OM] Re: Background Distractions
From: Candace Lemarr <CandaceRocks@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Date: Thu, 29 May 2008 08:22:01 -0600
Hi Moose, I'll reply below:

Moose wrote:
> Candace Lemarr wrote:
>> I actually prefer Jim's version, but with the tighter crop. In Moose's 
>> version with the blurred background, I can't get past seeing all the "halos" 
>> around the flower petals. 
> OK, I knew the rules, or should have. You can't do a rough demo of a 
> technique. People will focus on the parts that aren't what you are 
> showing, rather than what you are.

You're correct.
> 
> The point here was to show how bokeh highlights can be changed from 
> unnatural circles with bright edges and dark centers to classic Airy 
> discs with bright centers tapering gently into darkness by the edge. 

Yes, I was aware of your purpose when I viewed the image yesterday.

> This may not be important to you, but is to many people bothered by edgy 
> bokeh.

Apparently it is not important to me in this particular instance.
Couldn't tell you why, really, it just doesn't bother me here.

> 
> To me, the altered bokeh considerably improves this image.
>> I am sure this is simply due to it being a quick post processing job
> Partly that, but mostly a consequence of working with such a small 
> image. Edge effects that would be invisibly small compared to size of 
> the petals when working at full size are big enough to see.

I understand. In the past, I have tried to show a technique to others 
from a small res file as well, so I understand the challenges.

> 
> I have, in any case, done the picky work of cleaning them up, at least I 
> hope I got them all. So you can 'get past seeing all the "halos" around 
> the flower petals.' You may still prefer the original, but at least not 
> for the wrong reasons. 
> <http://www.moosemystic.net/Gallery/Others/Nichols/Lantana01.htm>

I don't think I preferred Jim's edited version for the "wrong reasons". 
I don't know if there are "wrong reasons" why different people prefer 
different forms or interpretations of art.

I prefer Jim's edit because in my mind, this is how I would see this 
particular wild flower. I prefer my wildflower images to be (generally 
speaking) sharper, crisper, and show some of the area the plant is 
native to. A macro shot or close up shot, for me, is different. Then I 
prefer some soft bokeh. I actually am quite fond of "blurring out the 
background" in one way or another (preferably in camera) for many 
subjects, but not this time. And I very often do not care for blurring 
the background in post processing. But that is just what does or does 
not appeal to me. To be honest with you, I would probably look at a 
different way of losing or lessening the bright spots in the background 
if I were truly bothered by them.

That being said, in no way did I mean any sort of criticism to your post 
processing prowess. I think most of the list members are aware of your 
skills in that area, and I am fully aware that this was a "demo" and as 
I viewed it yesterday, certainly not up to your own expectations for a 
finished product.

I honestly just prefer Jim's edit with your crop.
Candace


> 
> Moose
> 
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-- 



Candace & Co
www.CandidCaptures.biz


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