elephant chiaroscuro

Well, I'm not sure whether it fits the theme or not but we have to start somewhere. Taken late afternoon where the elephant had strong lighting striking just the features on his left hand side, the right hand side was completely in shadow. I have accentuated the light then added a Bi-Colour filter (Nik color), masking back the underlying detail in the highlights, then adding a polaroid filter (Nik color) set at 50%.

Somehow I don't think it quite fits the chiaroscuro principle because I think I've lost too much detail in the rest of the elephant so I try again with another image and post it tomorrow. :confused:

Hilary, I'm not too sure about what fits this theme either. But, I think this image does because I can clearly tell that you have an elephant here and the bright areas are detailed. But I'll let those in the know chime in.

Patti

Hilary, google chiaroscuro, and then look at some of the images under the image tab. I agree with your own self critique that you have lost some of the details. It would be nicer to make out the eye a little better IMO. Rembrandt is a good example of chiaroscuro.

That's what I thought, perhaps I should change the title and get c&c on the pic itself. I wonder if that is possible?

Hilary, I think this is an excellent example of Chiaroscuro. I think the dark areas reflect the style well. I think a hint more detail in the face area and this would be over the top. I really like the mystery that the darkness has created and this image appeals to me very much. I might actually tone down the tusk just a bit.

Thanks Denise for the encouragement, this theme is very tricky but I'm learning a lot and will try to find another image tomorrow to post.

:):)

Hilary, I think this is a great composition but I'd like to see just a little more detail in the eye (just my own taste).:)

Hi Hilary, I think you did a fine job for a first try. I agree with you that a little more detail would be nice. In this particular case, I believe that the light was coming from too much of an angle but it is still a dramatic image. Looking forward to seeing your next one!

Thanks all, I'll start work on finding one now. Hard if you haven't shot with purpose, but great fun.