Lone Tree on Sparks Lane

[Judy Howle]

I am thankful that we were able to go to the Smokies in the fall for the first time in 5 years, and that I got this one photo in the rain in Cades Cove that I really like .

This is a color version, with Nik Tonal Contrast, and then a Nik Silver Efex layer on top at around 50% or less opacity in luminosity mode to bring out more contrast and "structure" so that the detail in the sky and background shows up. I hope you like it! The black and white is still my favorite though, and I'm going to print it and have it in an exhibit in December at the local art gallery.

[Dennis Bishop]

It works in color, too, but I agree with you about the B&W version. Looking at this one, I finally understand why the fence posts and -- to a somewhat lesser extent -- the tree stand out so well in black and white. They're dark from absorbing the rainwater.

[denise ippolito]

Judy, This is lovely. I like the B&W version best too but this one can stand on it's own for sure- nice job with the composition!

[Judy Howle]

Thanks Dennis and Denise! This is a slightly different crop as I set it to make a 7 x 10 print to be matted to 11 x 14, and I like this crop best for the black and white also and I saved the Silver Efex version. I cloned out a few specs (possibly birds in the distance) and what was apparently a raindrop on the lens and a few falling rain drop streaks that I never noticed until I worked on this one full-size.

[Andrew McLachlan]

Hi Judy, this is perfect. I too prefer the B&W conversion but now you have two great versions

[Cheryl Slechta]

Judy, 2 wonderful versions! I like the crop better on this one and I think they will look equally great hanging on the wall. I'm still partial to the b&w but this is a close 2nd

[Judy Howle]

Thanks Andrew and Cheryl! I agree with your comments on the b & w.

[Christopher Miller]

I agree with everyone else. This looks great in color, but the B&W is by far my favorite.

[Anita Bower]

Congratulations on second place win.

[Judy Howle]

Thanks Christopher and Anita!