Gourds, a photo from Arizona, West

Photographer's Note

Lately, as I find occasion to wield my camera, I seek to capture light, shadow, and form in a way that imbues the everyday and ordinary with beauty and interest. My latest shot was taken on a small farm near the town of Amado in southern Arizona. The gourds, piled against the side of the farm's produce store, are a fascinating study. Their curving, languid forms seem carelessly draped over one another as they lay in the unrelenting swelter of early autumn. Some appear desiccated and sun-bleached from prolonged exposure to heat and light while others shy away in the shadows of their protective crannies.

I have chosen to present this image in black and white and increase the contrast slightly in post processing to emphasize the light and form.

magalik, paololg has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

pauloog (11751) 2009-10-19 17:26

Hello Brian,
Congratulations with this beautiful graphical view with its contrasting play of light and shadows, of interlacing forms.
Regards,
Paul

magalik (6103) 2009-10-21 5:09

It's really nice Brian !

I love this new photograph also.
I don't know how you get so nice N&B but don't change your PP, it's really perfect. Forms, sharpness, contrasts and lights are marvelous. It's very artistic. You have great ideas and I am really sincere.
I would like to get photographs like this.
What impress me is that you are able to do any style of photographs with always as much talent
I can't wait your next photo Brian !

All the best,
Magali

Waylim (25436) 2009-10-26 9:58

Hi Brian,
I do like the black and white version with a touch of sepia tone, as I have mentioned in the last critique to your photo of the Jars, it helps us focus our attention more on the value of the light and dark, and the shape and form of the object, and all that contributed to the composition. This reminded me that I need to do more B&W, which I have not done much lately. What I like most about many of your photos is your passion for travel and your love for the simpler things in life. Thanks for sharing your experience and POV.
Way

paololg (31448) 2009-10-27 6:15

Ciao dear Brian,
yes, you have done a masterpiece of management of light and shadows, emphasizing the shape and decoration of these little pumpkins. The sharpness is absolutely perfect, as also are perfect and pleasant the middletones of light. Excellent work, my friend!
Ciao, have a beautiful day!
Paolo