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Brenda Guiles
{K:6128} 11/24/2006
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I do like this collage, but must admit your first collage of the elements is very striking and is my favorite of the three. This would be my second favorite having viewed them all. First impression is that this is a powerful series of images, and straight to the point. Both of your elements collages are very well thought out and put together. :)
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m ,
{K:15872} 8/20/2006
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I am writing a comment about this composing, because I’ve seen it once just shortly in June when I’d been in hospital in Singapore. Unfortunately it was not time I could write my meaning, but now:
1. “Inspiring idea and composing,” I thought.
2. My first impression was that it could be better if you change the water and earth. However I like your last decision “final instalment”.
3. The images are absolute ideal!
4. You are the pro and already improve the image. I believe the “final instalment” is really perfect.
5. Without hesitation this one. It describes very well the philosophy of “Ancient elements of Alchemy” 7++
Best wishes: Maxime
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Phillip Minnis
{K:13131} 8/18/2006
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A very striking collage, Hugo! Well done!
Cheers
Phil
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Mary Brown
{K:71879} 7/4/2006
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I love your series and the variety of pictures you have presented. My first reaction to this is that it really displays the elements well. What I also find though, is the the first picture does not have the same brightness of the other three. It is a beautiful picture, but needs to match the others in brightness. I love how they all show motion reflecting the everchanging nature of all things. The path of the Earth picture was a particularly good choice for this. The vibrant colours and variety of textures are wonderful.
Mary
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Nick Karagiaouroglou
{K:127263} 6/25/2006
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Oh, my! Air, Fire, Earth and Water in the most pure colors they can appear. Now those elements were found to be the four states of matter - gas, liquid, solid - and plasma state (for fire) but still the thoughts walk. There are four dimensions in GR, four distinct kind of numbers, four quantum numbers, we can solve analytically polynomials of uop to 4th degree - and for me as a scientist such photos are very strong!
Especially when they appear in such wonderful compositions.
Hugo, any thoughts of putting them in series such that the coloring of each photo follows the natural spectral color sequence (red, yellow, green, blue - violett)?
Very nicely done! Bravo!
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Bruce Harper
{K:5305} 5/26/2006
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Sorry its taken so long to get back to you - having to work can be a pain sometimes ;(
I like this latest combination with the alternating tones but I agree with Lubi that the air image is the weakest.
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Roberto Arcari Farinetti
{K:209486} 5/24/2006
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..very powerful image.. your idea and studio are superb, very creative and very well composed..Very beautiful.. also the magma to impression of another form of the fire..
i like it the idea of panorama, with the vertical format many strong..
ciao
roby
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/24/2006
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Hi Lubi, thanks for your sound reasoning, it really makes sense, and I see your point very clearly. I think it would do the trick. I've made one more step in progressing this series, which I haven't posted on Usefilm yet. I might do so later tonight, if I remember it....
Thanks again, very enlighting and helpful critique, very much appreciated!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Lubi Star
{K:3903} 5/23/2006
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Hi Hugo…
I believe the last of the series is impo the most successful of the three… abstract enough but still retaining the necessary details to convey each theme to the viewer… the most important element though, to my eyes, is the natural forces depicted in the last three of them (fiery lava – thirsty earth and turbulent water) and that is why I find the Air image a bit out of place thematically speaking… it conveys a feeling of tranquility (the colors and shapes are softer) and not the awe in facing the potential destructive power of the Elements - which are inherently dangerous… I don't know, maybe a stormy image with almost monochromatic grey would probably work better (for me at least)… other than that, I find the selection of images and the images themselves very fitting to your concept which is the most important thing after all… to have an idea and actually bring it to reality… very well done…
Best regards…
Lubi
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arijit(ratul) talukder
{K:6029} 5/22/2006
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mind blowing ! excellent photograph .
best regards
arijit.
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Chitra T
{K:797} 5/21/2006
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Hugo, Sorry, I guess I am a bit late in my reply. I just saw the other sky version you had, I think with your reply to Henrik (the one where the sky looks like it is shot from an airplane above...) I liked that the most, for this series, it has that celestial look to it that goes well with the primordial alchemy... Not that I didn't like others, just a thought. You are too humble and kind to say my suggestions helped. If it did, I am really glad. btw, very clever of you to use the furnace shot which looks like lava flow.
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1301307 60
{K:44058} 5/21/2006
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Hi Hugo, I believe most of the suggestions I have read about this series are really very constructive, not much I can add. I used my imagination as to what kind of images i want to see using your thoughts about these elements.
Maybe for most of the photos, I would like to see them more dramatically, using wide angles. I like to see the sky or air to be more vastly with dramatic clouds. The fire element is alright with me, it is very strong and I feel the power and heat in it. The earth has the dramatic effect of the wide angle and I think the image here is appropriate, very nice textures. With the water, I like to see more of the power of the water, perhaps a capture of a big splash on a rock.
Maybe a constant focal length for all the image so as to get the same visual mood with all the four elements.
regards.. you are very good in stimulating the mind of the viewers..
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Andre Denis
{K:66407} 5/20/2006
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Hi Hugo,
I looked at both of the versions that you did in response to Petal. For me, I like the first change. I don't mind the simplicity of the fluffy clouds balanced with the blue. As you mention it is really just a simple association that you want to create. There is no miss understanding at all with that version.
Andre
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Henrik Hanselmann
{K:658} 5/20/2006
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Hello!
That new image actually made me more confused, this must be an endless process... The colors on the third and forth match, but not really the first and the second. Maybe you can rearrange... Anyway the earth image is beautiful. Also the fire image might be too much of a close-up. This is not advice, just me being in a critical mood today.
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/20/2006
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Hi Galal, Of course I won't put you on the black list! On the contrary, I really appreciate your honest feedback! If I were only looking for praise, I would not have put this in the Photo help section, and I guess I would've only be "nice" to the work of others....:)
It's one of the good things about photography, and usefilm, and as it deals with subjective issues, opinions are likely to vary. If I would've received positive comments, I think I would've failed miserably in my efforts!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Galal El Missary
{K:84569} 5/20/2006
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I know that u will put me on the black list but ,,
What's your first impression?
I expect a stronger composition on each element ( specially from a great photographer like u ) but i liked only the earth element .
Do the images fit together in this order?
i think the Earth & water elements only fit together
Which one do you prefer? This one or the previous series?
I Prefer the previous one ( Excellent )
Best regards
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/20/2006
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Hi Anna,
You're right, should've posted the large original file along with my first comment.... It's easy to forget non donors only have access to the 850px image.
I'm painfully aware of my shortcommings in my knowledge about ancient greek philosophy, although I studied ancient Greek for a fortnight in highschool, I guess I've blocked that information to be replaced by other useless facts; I really should catch up on my reading, with all this discussion I'm becoming increasingly interested in the background idea behind it...
You're probably right; the sequence is probably only a peripheral element here. Although "Earth, WInd & Fire" is also pretty close to ABBA, in which case i'm not so sure it's a good thing either... heheheheh.
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/20/2006
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Hi Ron,
Thanks for the explanation. I see what you mean. Actual flames would've been even less ambiguous. As to the fireplace, I think I would've used the current shot anyway (at least at first, but if I had a fireplace, I would've had an alternative. too.. The longer I think about it, the more I like the suggestion... I'll see what I can do.
Cheers,
Hugo
Cheers,
Hugo
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Ron Wilson
{K:18362} 5/20/2006
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I'm thinking on a real simple level here. For "fire" I need flames, I need to see an actual fire not the result of intense heat. Maybe I'm being too lazy (I was at work when I commented originally). Looking at it again I really can't say anything different. You yourself mentioned not having a fireplace. Are you implying that if you did you would have taken a shot of the flaming fire? Regards Ron.
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a n n a
{K:1451} 5/20/2006
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I do so enjoy the fact that size contraint is not a factor for attachments :) thank you for that, it makes for an incredible viewing experience. Changing the sky was a good call on your part too.
Also, I'd hate for you to be mislead about ancient philosophy, so I think it bears noting that although Empedocles bundled together a theory of 4 elements co-existing (based on early Presocratic philosophy of individual elements), debate to the actual order came afterward by other philosophers. There are also ancient chinese and indian theories of "inner" and "outer" elements (buddhism) that I believe Avishek may actually be confusing with greek.
That said, who cares? ;) the order you've attached immediately made me think of the band "Earth, Wind & Fire" and that can't be a bad thing, can it?
anna.
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Thanks... I rather like it, too, and owe it to you...:)
Cheers,
hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Moshen, Thanks for your comment, much appreciated!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Bruce, Thanks for the feedback. And you're spot on, the lines were the strong point in the previous series, but I couldn't get that together with this series. A stronger diagonal in the sky cold possibly work, yet the earth one will be off anyway. I think the lack of that feature could be compensated by a reorder of the sequence, as well as a different sky too. In the attached image, I think the combination of colours, and the alternating tones take over the need for such a consistency in angle / lines, what do you think?
Cheers,
Hugo
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Alternate - final installment. |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Chitra, thanks again for an excellent and extremely helpful and insightful critique! I think you nailed it - spot on.
Yep, it's the ocean - near Shi Shi beach, Olympic Peninsula, WA, taken last October.
As to the remark on the sky, I think the thing that bothers me is the tone of it; Ian suggested to saturate it, and increase the contrast, as did you. That definitely works, and I think I should do the same with at least the earth, and probably the water image too, in order to compensate the strenght of the fire. Yet, Following Petal's advice, a "replacement sky" could also work in introducing some cooler tones too, balancing fire and earth with water and air, if you see what I mean.
The fire photo is actually molten iron, flowing out of a blast furnace in the steel works I work in. As a photographer, I have the privilege to shoot in there on occasion, and as I don't have a fire place at home, it's the easiest shot of the three, as it's the closes to home... The others were all taken in the US, two in Death Valley, one, as mentioned, in Washington....
Thanks for the rework, it only emphasises the remarks made by others, and puts the finger on the sore place perfectly, it's the missing link. I definitely need to work on the contrast and saturation a bit more. Per attached what I believe is the basis for the final installment, without the intended tonal tweaks.
I do think this series has eveloved tremendously, and for a very large part thanks to you....
Cheers,
Hugo
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Final installment - only postprocessing to be done. |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Danny, Sure I do need all advice I can get, I found it increadibly challenging to pick the shots, and still receive so many valuable critiques, which inevitably brought me onto other ideas, helping me to improve this series - All very much appreciated! You have a point with the fire, and I know how to solve it, too. It's bright, allright (well, molten iron from a blastfurnace at 1300 degrees C requires a welding shield to look at it) and I think I can create a bigger coherence between the individual photos by increasing the saturation and brightness in the others as well....
Cheers,
Hugo
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Petal Wijnen
{K:50989} 5/19/2006
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Close to perfection... very close... ;-DDDD!!
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Lisa, thanks for your vote of confidence! Much appreciated!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Thilo, thanks for the feedback. After reading the various thoughts and comments, I realise I should work a bit more on equalising / creating more coherence in the contrast and saturation of the individual photos. I think that's the finishing touch, as with the other suggestions, I have a definite feeling the series has improved considerably...
Cheers,
hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Saeed, it's great to hear from you again! Thanks for the feedback, Much appreciated, and very helpful to see this installment through someone elses' eyes (yours, in this case)
Cheers,
hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Joggie, thanks for your feedback and your outspoken preference, but also the point of critique - and I fully agree, it was what I was afrait for. I'll tweak the images before making the final installment, definitely following your advice.
Cheers,
hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Ian, thanks for your elaborate feedback. I struggled with the image of the sky, and people rightfully picked up on that. Your stirred air is definitely an improveent, but I think it needs to have a closer proximily with the sea, and the coolness you mention. I found an alternative photo (see attached)
In your reworked version, I actually think the increased saturation and contrast does the job, too. It made me also see the lack of saturation in the earth and water image, increasing saturation and contrast in those three will also create a larger coherence with the fire one.
We're definitely all have a few exhibitionistic elements; showing off our work embodies that, but I don't think there's anything wrong with it, and I actually like it....:)
Thansk again,
Cheers,
Hugo
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Alternative 2 - again. The olive in the Martini... |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Thanks Moe, Unfortunately I don't have many alterantives for the sea one that offer much of a difference, but I see your point. Excellent feedback,
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Anna, Once again, thanks a lot for your elaborate feedback, much appreciated.
As to the order of the four individual photos, I think there are a few ways forward; either go by a visual selection, or follow the original thoughts by the philosopher Empedocles. As I replied to Avishek, I think maintaining the original ancient Greek sequence also creates a very interesting combination - visually. Per attached a reordering of the four images. I also found an alternative for the sky which I rather like in in consistency with the sea.
Thanks also for your vote of confidence in this one. At first I wasn't too sure, as the more straightforward type of imagery also removes part of the narrative element, leaving a lot less to the viewers imagination. Yet I'm beginning to like this one more and more.
Cheers,
Hugo
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Alternative 3 |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Andre, thanks for your feedback, much appreciated, as usual. I agree with the saturation of the images, something I intend to put some more effort in. I think I'll choose a different one for the sky (see my two alternatives I added to my replies to Petal), and saturate the lot, except for the fire one. That should do the trick, I believe.
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Shane, I agree, not much need for a mindmap with this one. But as I used it before composing these sequences, (guess that answers your question too...:) I thought I'd include it anyway. I find it a very useful tool to organise my chaotic thoughts, selecting those images wasn't really a piece of cake. I only use it before a shoot if I need to put someone elses thoughts into imagery - my commercial photography.
Would you mind elaborating on the third one a bit more? I'm with you, but others seem to favour it as their favourite of the four images. In the final installment, I think I'll up the saturation a tad more in all of them, except for the fire image.
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Austin, Thanks for your feedback, Your thoughts are as valuable as any critique in terms as suggestions, and it's highly appreciated...
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Thanks, Maurizio, good to hear from you every now and then...
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Avishek, Thanks for your excellent feedback! you've put in the final piece of the puzzle, I believe...:) I wasn't quite sure of the sequenc Empedocles put them in, and I haven't been able to find it yet, untill your comment - so I guess I owe you one! Per attached the sequence with many thanks to you and Empedocles...:)
Following Petal's suggestion, I also changed the sky for a slightly stronger alternative...
Many thanks for your feedback!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Earth - Air - Fire - Water |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Petal, It's impossible to please everyone... The previous suggestion was literally a top to bottom shot, as I took it from a plane...:)
But I think I found a better alternative to match your "bottom to top" preference. Per attached...:)
Cheers
Hugo
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Alternative Sky 2 |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Henrik, thanks for the feedback, very much appreciated. I agree on the first one, that's the one I struggled with most in this series. Per attached an alternative version - any better in your opinion? As to the levels, I agreee, it's a bit clipped, but that can and needs to be fixed anyway. Good point, though; much appreciated!
Cheers,
hugo
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Alternative - Sky |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Erik, thanks for the comment. Good to hear. Apart from a few last minute tweaks, I think I'm nearly there - at least for now....:)
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Don, thanks for the help, I might just do that, as I'm still struggling with the sequence; Need to complete the research on the proper sequence as the old Greeks referred to it...
Cheers,
Hugo
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Petal Wijnen
{K:50989} 5/19/2006
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Hi Hugo,
I was think more in the order of a 'bottom to top' kind of shot (so a neckache pic... LOL) instead of a 'looking down from the top to the bottom' one.
One other problem I have with it is... it looks too much like a sea (of clouds) and thus water shot...
Try, try again... ;-DDDDDDDD But I should warn you: I'm a hard one to please... LOL!!!
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Thanks mate! Much appreciated!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Mike, Interesting though, My inital idea was that the this entire series was already way too simple. Can't really think of an alternative for the third - my initial thought is that the glass of water with a single drop is too far removed from nature... Quake 4 heh? Would be nice with your new machine...:)
Curious what you come up with, I'm still not done with the final post processing...
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Petal, Thanks for the feedback. I agree with you on the sky, I sturggled with that one. In the attached image, I changed it to an alternative. Wonder if you think it's any better... Not corny at all, I guess this image doesn't leave much to the imagination, nor does it intend to. And... as I don't have a fireplace, the image of the molten iron in a blastfurnace is more accessible - at least to me...
Cheers,
Hugo
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Alternative sky |
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Robert, thanks for your continuous support, much appreciated!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Thanks for your kind comment, Meldijana, very much appreciated!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Paolo, to answer your question I'm an industrial designer / photographer - can't live without mindmapping to structure the chaos in my head... Thanks for the feedback. As the Ancient Greeks saw described the elements of Alchemy as earth, water, fire and sky, I think all four images should be equally important...:)
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Gerhard, I agree about the fire; I think I should boost the saturation of all images (except for the second one) a tad. Thanks for the feedback, you voiced my opinion about the reduced "tension" or impact nicely....
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Ron, thanks for the feedback. Would you mind elaborating on why especially the second one is not as obvious? I think the raging fire (this is molten iron, approx. 1300 degrees C) is basically the epiphany of fire... Not that I doubt your judgement, I find it very useful and enlighting to see it through someone elses' eyes...
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Randy, Thanks for the feedback, and I appreciate the overview between the three installments. With all the feedback, the series rather drifted off quite a bit compared to the one I had in mind, ending up in this one, which shows much less of the element of travel, yet is probably stronger than what I had in mind - initially....
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Kathy, I think everyone who can form an idea or feels something about a photo is qualified to critique - in most cases it's not about the technicalities, but about the more subjective / soft side that makes an image.
I agree the second photo (fire) dominates, but I assure you, it's not overexposed / blown out; what you're looking at is molten iron, approximately 1300 degrees Celsius, so no surprise it's bright; Had to shoot this through a welding screen otherwise I would've blown my sensor into smithereens....
Thanks for the feedback - I'll tone it down a bit more, and if I increase the tones and brightness of the others a bit, it might just be enough....
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Leonardo, thanks for your kind comment, much appreciated!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Thanks for your continuing support and kind comments, Jose!
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Hi Piero, thank you for your comment! Interesting thought, the birth of the earth, and yes, according to the ancient greeks those were the essentioal four elements of life....
Cheers,
Hugo
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/19/2006
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Thanks Orazio, good to hear from you again.
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Mohsen Bayramnejad
{K:21377} 5/19/2006
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Really great and original Idea.....a very Fantastic collections and lovely Pres. Love it!
Thanks for sharing!
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Howie Mudge
{K:27933} 5/19/2006
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I really like the way you have these four great captures set up as one image. They all work very well in harmony, I like them.
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Danny Brannigan
{K:19523} 5/19/2006
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Hugo you do need any advice from the likes of me.This is awonderful series and this last one is no exception. Looking at it from an unthinking photographer i am not too keen on the Fire picture but then again who am I to even think of commenting negatively.
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So Cal Photograhper
{K:18529} 5/19/2006
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The elements are all perfect in this series! Well done!
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Thilo Bayer
{K:50358} 5/18/2006
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Hi Hugo,
well, another great one in the series an a tough one for me to decide =) I think the contrast in terms of color is a bit too harsh for me here in comparison to my personal fave of the series, the elements. But hey: This is great, too. I really admire the way you present the series and the elements in it.
Thilo
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Saeed Al Shamsi
{K:47735} 5/18/2006
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I like the elements and the relation between the title and individual attractions and substances, in my opinion the second from right is pulling the eyes to it as a winner takes it all, that may be of its natural and famous phenomena been in every where in the world’s publications, not giving others a chance to appear normally and figure out strongly within the collage work, I can see it alone with great impact,, how ever for shore it’s a brilliant idea to bring such elements of nature in one go, neverless how each photographer interpret it and imagine it, that is normal way of seeing things in our own way. I would say the elements in the previous collage of equal and matching nature subjects. I think its more philosophy subject rather fantasy as some mentioned above.
Certainly the idea is reached to individuals, and that is the sign of good work.
Regards
Saeed
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Bruce Harper
{K:5305} 5/17/2006
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As I said in my comments on the second series, I was leaning towards the simpler more abstract versions. Here I think you have captured that very well. The only thing I miss here is the flowing lines you managed to connect the images with in the previous series. There is here a bit of a link with the diagonals, the rock's shadow, the edges of the furnace and the rocks in the sea. Perhaps a stronger diagonal in the sky one would be advantageous?
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Chitra T
{K:797} 5/17/2006
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I thought I had said it, let me clearly say it again, I like this the best of all. I like the first series too for different reasons that I've stated before. But this in all its simplicity, I find to be the best of the series.
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Chitra T
{K:797} 5/17/2006
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Hugo, I love this series. Yes, it is simple and very powerful. You have evolved this so much as a series and at the end you've taken your theme back to the roots of our planet, resolving into its elements. This feels very celestial and primeval to me... the wildest it can get if you look at it that way. All the choices are perfect imho. I like you've used ocean for water here (that is what it is right?) and the fact that all elements are in their primeval forms. I don't have many suggestions for you, it is very good as such, but if I had to nitpick...
- The sky could be made a little more dramatic, a little more contrast would help, given the celestial and dramatic mood of the series
- The fire element is also very powerful in this, as earthy as it can get but I am very hesitantly adding this since I think it should've been very hard to get that photo... a little more contrast in the lava would make it more fiery! I have slightly adjusted the curves, I will post it here and see if it goes thru... Sorry if any of my suggestions are repetitious I haven't gone thru other thoughts or your map yet, to prevent any bias.
Congratulations on a great series and contributing to a very thoughtful discussion. I like how you are so perceptive to all thoughts and take it beyond the suggestions... and the way you've evolved this series.
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Joggie van Staden
{K:41700} 5/17/2006
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Another great combo Hugo. I like the more abstract approach to the theme and the choice of pictures definitely fit better imo than the previous one. My main comment though would be that the mood of the photos is too light to fit the subject. Darker, more saturated colours, I think, will convey the power/drama and magnitude of the elements better. As an after-thought - I think picture 3 stands out in terms of composition and quality, the other three are not on the same standard. Thanks for the upload and freedom to give input. Great idea!.
Joggie
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Ian McIntosh
{K:42997} 5/17/2006
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A pleasure.
At first I thought your fire impure (it is fire and earth). That opens the door to thought about how the elements interact in all of the shots though.
There's some satisfaction in the way the form is arranged, the obvious similarities in the central shot, the foam and the clouds in the outer two.
Reading the critiques I guess the air imbalances things. No idea what to suggest. I can think about why it is like it is and be satisfied (it adds coolness).
Darkening the shadows I am starting to see something I didn't notice before, that is a slight sense of swirl to the clouds, drawn by the dark line coming away from the blaze of sun. I gather you wanted this to show some stillness to match the rock. At 17kb I don't think the below shot is an improvement but it may be a nice outcome from boofing your contrast there.
Always appreciate the invitation to think.
I find it's useful if we try to say what on earth we are trying to do in our photos to pull a useful critique. Your abouts are good for that.
Wer are all exhibitionists here,
Ian
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air stirred but not shaken |
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Moe Rabie
{K:4390} 5/17/2006
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i love this series, very powerful, the pix togther just perfect maybe you could change the sea one, maybe, and this series it much more better than the other 2, i really like it, keep going..
moe
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Piero Somma
{K:13399} 5/17/2006
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1. fire, 2.Air (atmosphere), 3.earth, 4.water
the birth of the earth, the creation remembers me...yes title...it could be the Creation
thanks hugo for creative moment...
ciao
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Orazio Minnella
{K:49417} 5/17/2006
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Excellent scenes.Great collage and colors.
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Avi
{K:70138} 5/17/2006
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Hi Anna,
I think you meant this to be received by Hugo, instead, sent it to me !! :)
But since you have, let me invite you to take some time and visit my humble profile in UF.
thanks,
Avi
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a n n a
{K:1451} 5/17/2006
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Hugo, excellent title :)
A stronger depiction of the elements here and how they relate to the history of the universe as being cyclic and eternal, without beginning and without end - as Empedocles had actually contended.
My first impression is the same as with the previous upload, your images are truly stunning and there is no mistaking your intent.
I don't believe there is a need for a particular order. I previously suggested the relationship to seasons as a way to help give you direction in your own mind. A place to start and stop, purely for the purposes of visual representation. (Ancient Greek philosophers were many, and they all had different theories on which fundamental element sprang others, so in the end, that may not have been a very useful basis for order).
The images do fit well together here with strong visual impact in each as well as color balance. I can say with confidence that my preference now is this series.
anna.
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Andre Denis
{K:66407} 5/17/2006
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Hi Hugo,
Good job of going for the straight forward approach of presenting the elements. As someone else suggests, it is open for debate which set of images is more exciting. But, this way there is no misunderstanding the elements. Also as mentioned, I agree that you could probably adjust the first two slightly to even up the images. That is to say the sky could have a little more "pop" to it and the fire image could be toned down a bit. I wouldn't adjust them too much though.
ps
You certainly do a have a knack bringing people together to express opinions.
Good job!
Andre
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Shane O'Neill
{K:3054} 5/16/2006
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Hi Hugo,
Not much need for a mind map - or so I thought until I read it. There's some concise thinking there! But I must ask: did you have this map in mind before you went shooting or did you use it to seek images in your collection? The series works very well I think. I'm not crazy on the third one (earth) but it does offer a lot from the colour point of view.
Anyway keep up the good work.
Rhds,
Shane
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Austin Yapp
{K:508} 5/16/2006
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i love the way you peiced it all together, the pictures that u shot to convey all the textures of the earth, ie. sky, ground, fire, ocean.i really shouldnt be critiqueing this photo but it displays all the perfect things of earth. you did great with these photos
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Maurizio Massetti
{K:30463} 5/16/2006
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Ottima composizione, fantasia eccezionale...
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Avi
{K:70138} 5/16/2006
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Hi Hugo,
Since I am a toddler in UF by your standards, I think I can risk commenting on this piece of work. Since you have pretty much laid down the rules of judging this, I will go by them:
1. My first impression was 'TERRIFIC !!!'
2. Order - According to the Empedocles, a Greek philosopher, scientist and healer who lived in Sicily in the fifth century B.C., all matter is comprised of four "roots" or elements of earth, air, fire and water. Fire and air are outwardly reaching elements, reaching up and out, whereas earth and water turn inward and downward. Hence I think THAT order - earth, air, fire and water - would look better.
3. Are there any images that do not fit in your opinion? - NO
4. How can i improve this series? - my only suggestion is the order.
5. Which one do you prefer? This one or the previous series? - THIS ONE.
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Henrik Hanselmann
{K:658} 5/16/2006
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Hello Hugo! I think this i much better than the previous one, much clearer. The first image is a bit problematic for me though, it seems different from the other three, i think it's because is much less contrast. I took a screenshot of the levels.
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Levels of sky |
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Erik Neldner
{K:10846} 5/16/2006
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hugo,
beautiful/stunning. the movement in all of these images put together so thoughtfully really moves me.
erik
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Don Loseke
{K:32503} 5/16/2006
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This is very interesting Hugo. Great way to display the images. I do have a suggestion. What is the first thing you look at when you see this image? My eye goes to the bright image and it is hard to get away to look at the others. I would suggest having all bright images together and more neutral or midtone images together. Just my idea. Don.
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Paul Lara
{K:88111} 5/16/2006
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DUDE!
What a great sequence.
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Michael Kanemoto
{K:22115} 5/16/2006
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Getting better, definititely more abstract - wish the water was a little simpler - maybe a single drop with ripples in a glass?
Let me also download this locally and mess with it. May take a while, I went out a bought Quake 4 (stupid me) and played it for 8 hours yesterday until my hands hurt.
Photoshop's sure is easier on the left hand tendons...
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Petal Wijnen
{K:50989} 5/15/2006
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First thought: Fantastabulous!!! This is a wonderful combination of the four elements... I think the order is great too.
The only small critique is on the first shot... it lacks a bit of crispness that the other shots do have... maybe a bright blue sky with white clouds would do better in this series... (corny but effective I think... ;-D)!! Image number three is my favorite in this 'put together'... BTW... ;-D a great crop of the original with just the textured ground, the rock and the shadow.......
Tussen haakjes... je maakt het jezelf wel moeilijk met de 'vuurfoto'... een brandstapel (open haard close-up) was eenvoudiger geweest... maar als je een vulcaan bij de hand hebt... ;-DDDD
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Robert Kocs
{K:89085} 5/15/2006
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Another fantastic collections of these ancient elements.
Great details and well presented concept. The colours
are amazing. My favourite one is the third "earth",
lovely details and great perspective.
Very well done dear Hugo!
Best wishes!
Robert
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Meldijana Omerbegovic
{K:4079} 5/15/2006
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Splendid combination of beuatiful images of the elements, that people are fascinated of from the beginning of time...very nice work,Hugo.
Cheers
Meldijana
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Paolo Corradini
{K:59552} 5/15/2006
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eheh also a mindmap..but what's your job hugo?
anyway it's a superb work again especially i love the third image..it's a sort of arriving point after air..dangerous "magma"..i think that the last image don't add more.
i like so much your works!
greetings
PAOLO
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Gerhard Hoogterp
{K:4863} 5/15/2006
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Well, this one definitely is more clear. It leaves little to the imagination and of course the question is open if that's a purely good thing.
Somehow the whole presentation lacks a bit of excitement or smt. I can't quite put my finger on it..
Nevertheless the photo's a nice again. I only have a minor problem with the air as it seems to lack the saturation and full colors from the other three images
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Ron Wilson
{K:18362} 5/15/2006
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Earth and water are appropriate images. The 1st two are not as obvious.
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Randy Lorance
{K:24769} 5/15/2006
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Hugo, I really like the journey of this series, appropriate that it starts out 'on the road'.
Life's journey, or rather journeys. And what we may observe at the end of the road and along the way. Very well thought out and sewed together.
A favorite quote of mine, used in my profile, comes to mind:
Albert Einstein-
"There are only two ways to live your life - one
is as though nothing is a miracle, the other is as though everything is a miracle"
Four are nicely captured in the installment above.
Randy
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Leo Régnier Я£
{K:67696} 5/15/2006
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Superb composition Hugo, very well done my friend!!!
Leo
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Kathy Hillard
{K:25721} 5/15/2006
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Hi Hugo,
I feel (and AM) totally unqualified to critique this image, but I'll give it a shot anyway :)
First of all, I think it is great. I love the way it is put together and I think the format works very well. I love the air, earth and water images. Unfortunately the fire image is so bright (blownout?) that it totally dominates. I have to pull my eyes away from that one to look at the others.
So, ther you have it :) With a more balanced image of fire I think this would be perfect.
Great job in this series (as usual), Hugo!
Kathy
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Jose Ignacio (Nacho) Garcia Barcia
{K:96391} 5/15/2006
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anather beauty. great work. outstanding. marvelous portafolio.
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Hugo de Wolf
{K:185110} 5/15/2006
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I don't really think the mindmap is of much usel here. The meaning of this series should be fairly self-explanatory. Still, I did put my thoughts and ideas togeter prior to composing thios series, so I might as well upload it...:)
With the attached image, I've described what I wanted to depict with this series. I'd like to ask you a few questions, but not as many as with the previous uploads.
I would appreciate your feedback on the following:
1. What's your first impression?
2. Do the images fit together in this order?
3. Are there any images that do not fit in your opinion?
And, most helpful,
4. How can i improve this series?
5. Which one do you prefer? This one or the previous series?
Cheers,
Hugo
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Mindmap |
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