I actually found this post quite difficult, as I usually account for cropping before taking the image. Because of that, it was pretty hard to find one of my own photos that really needed cropping or where the crop made the new image stronger than the original. For this post, I chose this photo of my cat that I took while experimenting with black and white mode on my digital mirrorless Fujifilm camera.
In the original, the image is at a slight slant, which in my opinion adds a more interesting dynamic, similar to Gary Winogrand, who often spoke about tilting the camera slightly. However, in this case, I think it looks more like a mistake than an intentional choice. For this reason, I decided to both straighten and crop the image in a way that stays true to the original while adding a few touchups. I darkened the backdrop, reduced the highlights, and added a slight blue tone to get it as accurate as possible.
Cropping the image also adds a slight mysteriousness, turning the door into a more abstract line that divides the composition between dark and light. The crop subtly shifts the focal point while simplifying both the background and foreground. I decided to keep the copyright under my name for both versions and not license the image under Creative Commons.
Hi Kenneth!
I also found finding photos difficult as I do the same while taking the photo itself, or I’ll immediately crop them afterwards. Also, thank you for introducing me to a new photographer! I checked out Gary’s work and really, really enjoy his style. I think he is a case where, as the professor would say, “you have to know the rules to break the rules.”
However in your case, I agree that the cropping enhanced the image. The first almost looks accidental, as if someone was walking to go inside and a cat happened to be there. The second really focuses on the cat as a subject. I am already starting to think of dramatic backstories for the cat in the photo (also caused by the lighting), which makes it an effective and impactful image. Great job I have no notes, and great use of the rule of thirds!
Thank you for sharing your work with us! I do agree with your own assessment that the tilt and crop of the initial image does not feel intentional, whereas the edited version is able to more successfully create that moody/mysterious vibe you are going for. I do think it could have been interesting to attempt a crop of the original image that is able to emphasize the tilt and create a feeling of unease instead by making it feel more purposeful. I think if I was doing this crop, I would have done it slightly tighter, cutting out some more from the bottom, however that is more of a stylistic choice because I tend towards a claustrophobic cropping style. Overall, I really liked how this turned out and think you did a good job enhancing your original.
Hey Kenneth! You clearly have a knack for photography and I can say that your talent shines through even in the original photo. I think that cropping the image the way you did does enhance the framing of the subject (the cat), and the touchups truly brought out the lights and darks in the image. I think the door frame and patio steps act beautifully as leading lines towards the focal point. Like Amal, I have no notes!