Statue Reverse Negative Space

[yazz86]

Hello All,

I was experimenting with a shot. When I saw this statue covered in snow, I told myself that it would be nice to post-process it such that it feels like a film negative. I'd like to know if the message of the picture is clear, and if the post-processing adds to that message. I'd also love to hear what other post-processing I can do on this shot. Read the quotes below to understand what the subject is.

I call it "Peace Above All", the olive branch is a symbol of peace ...



Post Processing Tone Curve Adjustments:

Highlights +100, Lights +100, Darks -48, Shadows - 100.

Afterwards I ironed out any remaining highlights on the statue using the Lighroom Adjustment Brush.

"This is the base of a statue commemorating Edward (VII) the Peacemaker, in Montreal. There are four allegorical figures at the base of the monument: representing Peace, Four Nations, Abundance, and Liberty. Armed Peace is the woman at the front holding the olive branch, but if you look carefully there is a sword hidden in the folds of her skirt, just in case—a reminder that force is sometimes necessary if you want to keep the peace."

This is a shot of the whole monument, with the surroundings included, in case you have tips on composition. I tried other closeup shots (full figurette, portrait shot from the side) but this one put the most emphasis on the outstretched arm, as if buried.

http://jax.sus.mcgill.ca/~yazz/100_5195.JPG

Thanks to anyone who took the time to read this and reply.

Yazan

[photofun]

This is an interesting effect and I love how the processing brought out the texture in the monument. After reading your additional info about the monument I had to look at the original to see the sword in the skirt. I would have liked to have seen that in the composition as well.