Chimp chiarascuro

[Hilary Hann]

Photographed this rescued chimpanzee at the Sweetwaters Wildlife Reserve in Kenya. Most of the effect was in-camera (accidently of course) but I've enhanced the effect I wanted to achieve by using the midnight filter in Nik Color Efex. I'm trying to get the darker, emotional feel that some of the old painters achieved. I think the original could have been a bit sharper and the megapixel size of my old digital camera was quite small, but anyway all C & C welcomed.

[Mark Fuge]

Nice image and application, Hillary.

You mentioned the softness, but I might have also cropped the left side to eliminate the light on the shoulder, which is distracting to me. I might have also taken it to full B&W. The glow in the eyes doesn't seem to work ... again, my impression. But ... your image ... your vision.

[Jackie Schuknecht]

Good use of the filter Hilary, you are getting the chiaroscuro look.

[denise ippolito]

Hilary, I agree w/ your self critique but feel you really pulled off the lighting. The midnight filter is one of my fav's.

[Hilary Hann]

Thanks everyone. The eyes look a bit demonic on the op so I must look at the original. I'm sure he wasn't always like this! :o

[Kerry Perkins]

Hilary, this works for me as presented. I like the hint of color and the contrast effect. I don't read the eyes as demonic at all, just contemplative. Does feel a bit tight on the right side. Good job!

[Hilary Hann]

Thanks Kerry, I'm seeing some artifacts that I didn't notice before so I might re-post with some minor adjustments, in which case I'll add some room on the right as I have plenty.

[Kerry Perkins]

I look forward to seeing it Hilary!

[Hilary Hann]

I've taken some of the suggestions on board and have given the chimp a little more room. I have used Nik Silver to go to a sepia finish rather than full b&w as I liked the softer tones it gives. I've tried to make the eyes look more contemplative and less demonic. I think I like it better and I hope the artifacts are under control. I've also removed the shoulder highlight. Thanks for all the comments, appreciate it and any views on the re-post will be taken on board. Hilary

[Kerry Perkins]

Hilary, very nice repost. I like the sepia look and the work you did on the eyes. As for the crop, I would split the difference on the RHS by taking about half of the space back. Then you would have that last highlight in the LRC leading the eye out of the frame in the corner. Very nice work and congratulations on winning the weekly contest! Your image will be our wildcard pick for image of the week. :D

[Hilary Hann]

Thank you VERY much, I feel very honoured in amongst so many fantastic, visionary photographs. I feel speechless (but the fingers keep typing :p ).

So exciting! Wait till I tell the children!
Hilary