In a rose arbor.

[Frog]

I've debated with myself about posting this because it suffers so much from the bright light. Was at Point Defiance park with grandkids today for a picnic and they and I went for a walk through the rose gardens there. I had my camera, of course, but was only doing snapshots for most part as it was mid afternoon and quite bright. Well, when they started through this arbor/tunnel I had to snap quick.
Even though the light, especially on the path, is pretty much a washout, I love this photo.
The only thing I've done is drop the exposure to -.30 and re-size of course.

My question...Is the moment more important than the photographic quality.

[GB1]

Frog - Has so much potential! THis looks like a classical painting subject, one of those French countryside areas begging to be painted (and photographed). Unfortunately, I must agree that the lighting just isnt right in this one. It could be the brightness/contrast. I don't know. But there's no doubt that the flowers should be better lit here -- they're mostly in shadow.

Besides the lighting, I think I would prefer a wider lens and perhaps a lower pt when you take the shot, say 2-3 feet off the ground, aiming up more. I am undecided on the value of the kids in the shot... in some ways I think it distracts, but I do like the human element.

Calls for a serious reshoot.

GB

[swmdrayfan]

Frog, sometimes the situation dictates the shot. I think you summed it up pretty well when you said that you had to shoot quick when your grandkids started through the arbor/tunnel. On another day, given proper lighting and time to weigh the options, I think this could be a great place to shoot. I'm with GB.....it calls for a reshoot.

[Frog]

Its a bit of a drive to get there but I am awfully tempted to get back before the roses are gone and when I can take my time composing/focusing/etc. with a tripod.
I'm thinking early morning would be best as the left side of the pic is pretty much east and I think there would be too much shade in the evening.
There was a wedding party a little ways from here and I'm betting there's a shot of the bride and groom under this arbor.
Thankyou for your comments and advice.

[Greg McCary]

I think you covered it Frog. The composition is good and also the subjects. What can you do when the light is harsh? GB1 may be right, turn it into a painting type picture in PS. I think a crop at the shadow line on the walk path would help?

[Coastal Flyer]

NOTHING is more important than the moment when grandchildren are involved. Give a damn and enjoy it.

CF

[CLKunst]

I think Greg is on to something. The first thing I thought when I saw this was that a crop to the shadow line might strengthen this. After coming back and looking again I'm quite sure that would help. Reducing the areas where your eye can wander away from the subjects can't hurt.

As for your question, the moment is always more important. Often I find two little voices whispering in my ear. One says, 'Oh no! Crummy light and the perfect scene - oh well, put the camera away.' And the second one always answers back 'Just take the picture.' Que sera sera!

[Frog]

Thankyou Greg, CF, and C.L.
Don't know why I didn't think of a crop there but it seems a good idea and I'll try it out.

[mn shutterbug]

The one thing I think would have made it look better is if your grand kids were in the light instead of the shadows.