Old Train Station first b\w

[benchdog]

This is my first b\w attempt and am hoping for some input. I like it but I am not sure if I got the contrast right. Also what do you think about the over all composition? Particularly the balance. Is it weighted to heavily to the right?

Thank you



Lens 18-55 mm
fl\18
f\16
1/250 sec
ISO 800
0 EV

[tomdinning]

I'm assuming that's snow. I don't see it that often but is it still white? And was it white when you saw it? Snow can be dull and gloomy in a fog but you are only about half way there. Because of this the image has a washed out look. I don't know what B&W conversion you used and it doesn't matter. If you are using PS check the INFO for your RGB content. Whites should be up towards 256.In this image I reckon they would be at least over 230. Then adjust the rest of your tones to suit the contrast you want.
The railway tracks are an important element in bringing this picture together. Without them the building is just a building. Find a perspective that allows the tracks to not only speak clearly about the function of the building but can lead the eye to it. Unfortunately, this means you need to go back and walk around a bit. But, hey. That's a good thing, right?
The photogrpah has potential. When you're done with playing around with B&W and discovered it is an exceptional tool for composition, use is well. It will give you some very pleasant surprises.

[benchdog]

Originally Posted by tomdinning

I'm assuming that's snow. I don't see it that often but is it still white? And was it white when you saw it? Snow can be dull and gloomy in a fog but you are only about half way there. Because of this the image has a washed out look. I don't know what B&W conversion you used and it doesn't matter. If you are using PS check the INFO for your RGB content. Whites should be up towards 256.In this image I reckon they would be at least over 230. Then adjust the rest of your tones to suit the contrast you want.
The railway tracks are an important element in bringing this picture together. Without them the building is just a building. Find a perspective that allows the tracks to not only speak clearly about the function of the building but can lead the eye to it. Unfortunately, this means you need to go back and walk around a bit. But, hey. That's a good thing, right?
The photogrpah has potential. When you're done with playing around with B&W and discovered it is an exceptional tool for composition, use is well. It will give you some very pleasant surprises.

Thank you for your critique.

Yes snow is still white, well, that is when it has freshly fallen. It was a very overcast afternoon and my attempt was to capture the subdued light of the afternoon. I agree that it looks washed out but I was trying to balance the mood with contrast. Bit of a strugle. I did play with brighting the snow to 230 but it took the mood away that I was attempting to create.

When traveling we are either coming or going. Here I tried to create the effect of going with the tracks leading away from the station. My hope was to capture the subdued feelings we sometimes have when we are moving on.

This location is close to home and I do like the idea of having the tracks leading into the station and white snow bring the sense of happiness when arriving.

Thank you again

[tomdinning]

There's another aspect of travelling worth considering: being there. Have a look at that perspective. If you enjoyed being there and there were some feelings associated with that, have a go at expressing that.
You can still get that subdued light by having the snow whiter and reducing the contrast where it is strongest. That might mean your blacks are not quite as black and your mid-tones are not quite as dark. Its a matter of shifting the tones around until you get the effect you want. And, you know, some days you just don't get it. That's why we go back when the light is different because its the light which sets the mood and that's what you have to capture.
It looks like a great spot any you are fortunate to have such a place you can go back to many times to see how it affects you. Every day and every time of the day will be different.
I'd love to see it thriving with people and trains.
Catch you later

[benchdog]

Originally Posted by tomdinning

And, you know, some days you just don't get it. That's why we go back when the light is different because its the light which sets the mood and that's what you have to capture.

I'm waiting for some fresh snow and hopeful the light will be right. I find converting to b/w a little more challenging right now but I know it will come to me.

Thank you for your help