Two Interpretations

[fotografr]

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I was walking to the store early this evening and came across these lilies glowing from backlighting by the setting sun. First, I was just going to post the b&w but then decided to post both versions to show what the b&w came from.

 

By the way, the sweet aroma from these flowers was just incredible.

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[platypus]

I think I might be in love with your b&w images!!

[pauledell]

Brent,

 

The b&w version is great but the color version is my favorite. The backlighting on the stems and leaves is more effective and the flower becomes glowing. Of course, the downside is the background is noticeable.

 

Paul

[Tom Barry]

In this case, I prefer the B&W because the background is pure black. I would be hard-pressed to pick one over the other if the background in the color version were black. I think that with a little PP manipulation of levels that the background could be rendered black without greatly affecting the rendering of the flowers.

[stuny]

Beautiful. I'll bet if you drop the background to black the color will rival the B&W.

[mikeleng]

Brent, B/W version for me .

Mike

[fotografr]

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I think I might be in love with your b&w images!!

 

That's a particularly nice compliment since it comes from someone whose b&w work I greatly admire. Thank you!

[fotografr]

Paul, Tom, Stuart and Mike--thanks much. I was able to get the background black by using Silver Efex Pro, bit I don't have a comparable version for color. I'd still probably prefer the b&w because I think it's a more artistic rendering. In my opinion, color too often overwhelms a photograph and in a sense masks the form, texture and tone of the subject. I'm sure there are people here who disagree with that viewpoint.

[Northwest Wanderer]

Brent,

I always enjoy your photography. Must say these two images are amazing to me.

[tundraline]

These are really good photos. I like the B+W version best. Thanks!

[Louis]

Brent, I am a B/W guy; but honestly, your color version is very nice too!

[Iduna]

Brent,

 

both versions are excellent and both have a different message. The classic B&W is emphasizing the graphical composition. The color version though has all this lovely light and velvetian texture and ix conveying all the strong fragrance of the lillies. I annot make up my mind for a favourite because I like both the versions equally.