Subtle Tone

So today I have tried something new. I process my photos using Adobe Lightroom but mainly use auto settings to make minor adjustments to exposure and highlights. I have tried a few times to create colour highlights in black and white images (see my recent post "Shipwreck" from 4th Sept) with fairly decent results, but I haven't really experimented with any of the other features for fear of mucking things up and getting the colours completely wrong.

However because changes made in Lightroom can be easily undone there really is no harm in trying and so I decided to watch a couple of tutorials and be a little creative.

I like boats and this old hulk moored at Glasson Dock is full of character especially as it is moored alongside some new and sleek yachts. The original image was shot in colour but I have converted it to black and white and then added a colour hue to the highlights and shadows to create a warm and atmospheric image rather than the original which is quite bland in comparison. I also applied a graduated filter to bring out some detail in the sky.

I am really pleased with my first attempt and I hope that you will like it too. I would be pleased to read any feedback in the comments below.

Shipwreck

At Glasson Dock Marina (near Lancaster) there are some really lovely boats; narrow boats which navigate the canals and yachts and motor cruisers that sail out into Morecombe Bay and beyond. There is also one vessel sunk at it's moorings with the wheelhouse being just about the only part above water.

It really is quite sad and shabby and not particularly photogenic but as I walked past I noticed a plant in full bloom just behind the wheel and I thought instantly that it would make an interesting shot. I have tried to add a little extra interest by using the adjustment brush in Lightroom to highlight the flowers and make them stand out against the black and white background. I think that it works quite well..