Fan-top Saguaro

[Snarkbyte]

I'm determined to improve my skills and techniques for B&W images, so I expect to be posting more in the coming weeks. This image is fairly simple, but I'd really appreciate some no-holds-barred critique on this. Thanks!



(In case you're wondering, no one knows why some saguaro grow this way. It's not all that common, but not really rare, either.)

[ucci]

Well, you seem to have gotten off to a good start in your quest! Seems well framed and draws the eye in and up the central subject. Nice work.
Ken

[Snarkbyte]

Thanks, Ken. When I took this shot, I thought I would be able to draw out more texture, but it just isn't there. I may try a reshoot earlier in the morning (or later in the year) for better light.

[Donald]

Al - what I like about it is its simplicity. The plant has a lot of texture and details and that's what needs to be concentrated upon. And you have made that happen by setting it against an absolutely clear sky. And that really works. I think it's a very powerful and interesting image. I think you're conversion is just right for the subject.

[Snarkbyte]

Al - what I like about it is its simplicity. The plant has a lot of texture and details and that's what needs to be concentrated upon. And you have made that happen by setting it against an absolutely clear sky. And that really works. I think it's a very powerful and interesting image. I think you're conversion is just right for the subject.

Thanks, Don. I've admired your work ever since I joined CiC, so your opinion is greatly valued (no offense, Ken... all feedback is appreciated but I'm a big fan of Don's photos). I hope you'll be kind enough to point me in the right direction when I get it wrong.

[rpcrowe]

I love the texture and the lighting on this image. I wonder, however, if a one degree clockwise rotation might not be in order?

[Snarkbyte]

I love the texture and the lighting on this image. I wonder, however, if a one degree clockwise rotation might not be in order?

Thanks, Richard.

You may be right about the rotation, but I have difficulty determining "vertical" with these plants, especially when there are no other references in the image. There really isn't any line or edge on this plant that can be reliably used. It's just a matter of judging the plant as a whole (and sometimes that doesn't work, either, as different people will use different lines or parts of the plant to judge). I used grid lines to help judge this one during cropping, but as I said, it still may look askew.

[waha]

From hanging around the Sonoran desert, I seem to recall that this anomaly found in the saguaro is known as a cristate, or is this just a pesky cactus giving the photographer the middle finger?

Seriously, though, a very successful shot. The lines are strong and crisp, creating fascinating patterns. Congratulations!