Process: What Makes a Good Detail?

Sometimes, the same images that are good focal points are also great as details. The difference is that details might get covered up by other layers, and need strength to poke through and catch your eye. I found myself reusing images over this series, not only because they are strong images that work through layers,…

Process: Looking for Focus

Some photos are great for detail or layers, but a composition needs a focal point. I’m sorting through images from my recent trips to Scotland and Ireland, looking for the zingers. What I can’t figure out is whether these images are good as is, or would benefit from some layering. I’m thinking that a very…

The British Landscape

Just back from my third visit to Scotland, and it’s still true: there’s something so compelling and inspirational about the British countryside. Here’s one of my compositions from there, Dale. Compared to the long views of the Skagit Valley farmland, the horizons in England and Scotland have a more immediate focal point. Trees and old buildings…

Skagit Horizons

Have you driven through the Skagit Valley in northwestern Washington? I find it beautiful all year, not just during its famous tulip season. The horizons are visible for miles! That I grew up in a farming area likely explains why I’m drawn to these views. My home town, in the Ottawa Valley, has similar terrain. A friend…

Skagit Homestead

Skagit Valley farmhouse, in passing. Duotone digital photograph © 2014 Liz Ruest

Stirling Warehouse

The wrong side of the tracks at the train station in Stirling, Scotland. Duotone digital photograph on maple. Digital photography © 2014 Liz Ruest

Doune Alcove

A window seat at Doune Castle as focal point. Duotone digital photograph © 2014 Liz Ruest

Black Nugget Bulkhead

Pattern and texture draw the eye in. Duotone digital photograph © 2014 Liz Ruest