Lorna Zaback
October 2026 - Boulder Reflection
Original
About the Image(s)
I keep experimenting with monochrome conversion of images that probably have more appeal in colour., but just to see. This one was shot in a park on Vancouver Island near where we used to live. I was intrigued by the subtle blue tones at the base of the boulders and by their reflections in the almost still stream. In monochrome, the colour variation disappears which in my opinion reduces some of the image’s impact (but, strangely a face emerges from the rock). When I did the BW conversion, I increased the texture and contrast a little, did some sharpening and luminance smoothing. F/13, 116 mm focal length, ISO 200.
5 comments posted
Hello Lorna. You've captured the reflection beautifully.
On the rock face from top to bottom I see a forehead, eye sockets, nose, and angular mouth completed in the reflection.
Regarding B&W conversions, a day with more strong, contrasty light tends to produce the defined shadows, and highlights many viewers respond to.
In diffuse light, I find color variations many not give the tonal separation I seek for B&W conversion; I get an image with everything expressed in mid-tones.
If you still have access to this area, you might try the same shot on a bright (sunny 16) day, and see the difference in the B&W conversion. Posted: 10/09/2026 16:32:03
On the rock face from top to bottom I see a forehead, eye sockets, nose, and angular mouth completed in the reflection.
Regarding B&W conversions, a day with more strong, contrasty light tends to produce the defined shadows, and highlights many viewers respond to.
In diffuse light, I find color variations many not give the tonal separation I seek for B&W conversion; I get an image with everything expressed in mid-tones.
If you still have access to this area, you might try the same shot on a bright (sunny 16) day, and see the difference in the B&W conversion. Posted: 10/09/2026 16:32:03
Point taken, Charles. Thank you - I agree that this image is not really a great candidate for BW conversion. But here is to experimentation. Posted: 10/13/2026 02:46:39
Very nice reflection. I like that the reflection closer to the boulder is sharper and then the sharpness faded off some. For me, a vertical crop seems too restricting. I think a horizontal crop showing more of the subjects would seem more natural. Guess I want to see more. Good range of tones. Posted: 10/11/2026 18:04:39
I see the face in refection. It is amazing how many times we find shapes and faces while out looking and shooting. I tried to add contrast in Topaz and also lighted the reflection while darking the top. Not the norm but the photo is in the reflection. Also cropped as a square. Jut an idea. Posted: 10/15/2026 14:13:00
Well spotted Lorna...the face is intriguing.
I too prefer the colour as I find it more interesting and the face is better defined. Posted: 10/17/2026 16:10:42
I too prefer the colour as I find it more interesting and the face is better defined. Posted: 10/17/2026 16:10:42