Task: Craft a Luminous Landscape

What Story Do I Want to Tell?
When evaluating a photograph and making the decision about the direction I want to take the image, I ask myself two questions, “In what context will the image be used?“ and “What is the story I want to tell?” I then consider how to best tell the story—what elements should be emphasized, and which should be subordinated. And I consider how I wish for the viewer’s eye to move through the composition.

One Image, Two Stories
The ‘before’ and’ ‘after’ versions of this image tell two very different stories.  Neither one is necessarily better than the other; they’re just different. 

Muted or Vibrant, Restful or Active
The unedited version, with its subdued colors, is restful. With the muted contrast, it would work well as a background image in a layout. Text overlaying the image would easily be readable.

But, I wished to tell a different story. Instead of muted colors, I preferred warmth and vibrancy. Instead of restful, I wanted the viewer’s gaze to actively move through the composition.

In its final version, the photograph is about the light and about the resplendent colors of a late-afternoon autumn day. 

How Would You Use Each in a Layout?
Which version do you prefer? How would you use each in a layout? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop me a line. Share your ideas; tell me what you think.

Photography & Retouching: © Martha DiMeo 2020
Interested in licensing this photo for a project? Contact me with the details.