The Old Homestead

[swmdrayfan]

The color version of this didn't cut it, so I converted to b & w.
John

[Jimmy B]

I would like to see the color version, email me if you wish to share it, Jimmy

[gahspidy]

John, I like the subject alot. I think your framing is very good as well. I feel though that the subject (birdhouse) does not stand out strongly enough from the trees to be most effective. I think some color, even if just a mild color added to the house, would help.
If you don't mind, i would also like to see the color version.

[swmdrayfan]

Ok, guys....here's the color version. You made the statement that echoed my feelings about it, Gary. I felt there wasn't enough differentiation in color to put this version up before. That's why I felt it worked better in b & w.
John

[mpreece]

I like b-w photos and shot alot of them, but here I think the color version looks better.

[Old Timer]

Great title and good choice to go to b&w but like Gary I feel the image needs something to make that birdhouse pop out and say I'm what this photo is all about. I'll be interested to see what the PS guys can do with this image. Great to see you sharing something other that the baseball John.

[Rocket_Scientist]

I like this kind of photo. It would be nice to see some shots with the "residents", if any, as well. I do not think I would like color added to the bird house. Either the natural colors, subdued, if you like, or the black and white work well for me.

[gahspidy]

thanks for sharing it with us, John. I feel it is still not popping enough because the colors are rather flat and mute. Of the two, I feel I like your b&w version. Experimenting with some of PS lighting effects could get your birdhouse to stand out some . If this scene is not too far from you, you could reshoot it at a time when the lighting enhances the birdhouse and cast some interestring contrasts and shadows.

[swmdrayfan]

Gary, OT, Rocket, et al---thanks much for your input. The next time I get down to the in-laws I'll give this another go. The muted, flat colors of the bird house really are a challenge, especially when you consider the similarity to the color of the tree. (maybe I'll take some stain with me next time... ).
John

[swmdrayfan]

Ok----I just colorized it a bit. What do you think?

[mcpaul]

It's getting better (IMHO) - what about making it all b+w except the birdhouse? Then the small amount of colout of the birdhouse may just get enough differential to make it stand out yet look natural?