Interpretation

DRAMATIC INTERPRETATION

LITERAL INTERPRETATION

Decisions, decisions. Every time we click the shutter we have decisions to make. Composition, camera angle, and depth of field are some of the primary decisions you make every time you take a picture. But what about afterwards, when you sit down in front of your computer to optimize an image? How do you decide how to interpret that image? You can go for the literal, or you can choose the dramatic.

There is no right or wrong approach. However you choose to express your artistic vision is the right decision for you. For today's image, the dramatic interpretation is my preference.

Generally in nature and wildlife photography, the goal is to depict the subject as close as possible to how it really looked when you made the exposure. Sure, you might want to improve the color or sharpness a bit, but you do not want to go too far beyond the reality of the subject. In most cases both the highlights and the shadows should have detail.

But sometimes a little drama adds punch and visual interest. That is my feeling about today's picture. While the literal interpretation is technically correct, showing detail in the trees in the foreground and mid-ground, the artistic version has more impact and power. It has not changed the scene beyond recognition, but it has INTERPRETED the scene rather than just presenting a LITERAL representation.

TECHNICAL DATA
Shutter Speed 1/250 sec.  Aperture f/20.  ISO 400.  Lens: Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS, set to 154mm.  Camera: Canon 6D.  Handheld.

TODAY'S QUOTE: "Life is like art. It is all about interpretation."  --Robert Holden