Cottage by Dargan Mountain

[ax2010@eircom.net]

We had been out for a walk in the hills in an area which was new to us. As we came down off the rough track we saw this unoccupied but beautifully maintained cottage through the tunnel formed by the trees. What caught my eye was the contrast between the snowy whiteness of the cottage walls and the darkness of the approach. I tried it first with the 18/55 lens but was very dissatisfied with the result so went back next day with the 55/250 lens and was lucky to have the same lighting conditions.

What I wonder is, should I have got more detail in the dark tree trunks and foliage? If so, how could I have achieved this without losing the contrast which had first attracted me?

[colin C]

Re: Cottage by Dargan Mountain

Hello Garrett

I rather like this shot and can see why it appealed to you, even more so to have a second attempt. To me it says "welcome home" after a long journey.

Did you take the shot in RAW? If so, you can lighten the shadows in DPP. Do it gently, or you will lose the contrast that you originally liked.

It it's a Jpeg, you will have to deal with it in a similar way in Photoshop, or Elements.

Colin

[ax2010@eircom.net]

Re: Cottage by Dargan Mountain

Thanks Colin. This is a jpg, taken before I, with a lot of help on the forum, finally worked out how to order the camera to take RAW photos! I could edit it in ACDSee Photo Pro but I recently deleted that in order to concentrate on using DPP with the EOS 450D which I acquired only six or so months ago. I think I'll stick with DPP and go back some fine day and shoot it in RAW.

[colin C]

Re: Cottage by Dargan Mountain

Good for you Garrett.

I have gone back to shots maybe half a dozen times to finally get the shot how I really wanted it, so I applaud your persistence.

Bright hazy sunshine may diffuse and lighten the shadows, without adversely affecting the contrast too much.

Colin

[ax2010@eircom.net]

Re: Cottage by Dargan Mountain

I'll remember that tip!

[colin C]

Re: Cottage by Dargan Mountain

I'll remember that tip!

Loads more available on here. Come up with a problem and at least one of us will have an answer.

Colin