One Man and his Dog

No apologies for more snow and trees and silhouetted figures. The novelty hasn't quite worn off yet and we just don't get this kind of persistently cold weather that often. I've got to make the most of it while it lasts. I think we have only one more day before it starts turning to slush, which is the part I really hate.

I think the appeal, certainly for the photographer, is that the snow supplies contrast, which is what we're always looking for to make a good image. It's not necessarily easy though and I often find the shots I take rather disappointing when looked at straight out of the camera. I have to process them far more aggressively than usual to provide a scene with the same impact that it had on me in reality.

I think that snow works on our perception in the much the same way as converting a photograph to monochrome does, in helping to focus our eye on the natural patterns in the landscape. They are much more clearly defined. The covering of snow provides a blank canvas upon which we see detail far more clearly. I've noticed a similar effect in my processing. I started out by trying to bring out as much structure as possible. Now, I find myself often trying to remove a lot of the detail so as to focus attention on the main subject. I'm not quite sure whether this is a phase or a natural evolution. Only time will tell I guess, but I suspect the latter.

Thanks so much for the feedback on yesterday's alley shot. I could not have predicted that you'd receive that so well. I thought it's appeal to me was quite personal. You really love those wheelie-bins! I feel bad that at a time when my journal is attracting a lot of attention I'm totally unable to reciprocate. I hope you understand. To old friends and new subscribers alike, I'd hate you to think I'm ignoring you. All I can say is thank you once again for your support and keeping me honest to my task.