Before World War I the Frick Company supplied sawmills, steam engines, threshers, tractors and heavy farm equipment to the surrounding areas of Salisbury, NC. Today this historic 15,000 square foot building has been renovated and houses a collection of shops and galleries.
Wanting to portray the feeling of the age and history in this image, I went for grain, texture and fading — I’m not confident how successful I was. :-)
I think it worked Earl. I get a feeling that it may have worked as an illustration for an old newspaper or catalog image. I like the direction you are going for the new stuff.
Ray, thanks, I appreciate the feedback. I’m pushing some of this and in some cases find myself wondering if I’ve lost my perspective. :-) I love nature photography but I like this subject matter as well. I find switching back and forth helps keep both fresh.
The final image looks quite good I think. I like the edge treatment and the contrast seems fine to me. Well done.
Thanks, Don. I went back and forth on that edging.
It works for me, definitely. You made a lovely work on that image.
Interesting this, how huge industries like this have came and gone during the decades. Seen in perspective that only decades gives you, I wonder how current industries that are closed down will be remembered in the future…. Will photos be made where current digital processes are emulated, like HDR and such? Just a thought.
Ove, thanks! That’s a very interesting thought you had. Future photos of currently failing businesses recreated in the photographic style of there time, now — perhaps so! :-)
I agree with Ray, it could have come right out of an old newspaper or photo album. It’s one of those images that tells a story.
Monte, glad you guys see it that way. I think I was just looking at it too long. :-)
Well done ! A nice vintage feel !
Thanks, Sidney
I love the subject matter, Earl. And black and white suits it perfectly. But the very first thing that hit me when I opened this post was the “effect”. Just my opinion, but if you’re going for “age and history”, then maybe the high contrast texture should be toned down just a bit. But the other “votes” say otherwise. So feel free to ignore me completely!
Paul, After reading feedback I went back into Lightroom and tried reducing the contrast/texture a bit as suggested. It’s a slight difference on this image but I believe you’re correct — it does make for a better fit with the “age and history” effect. Hey, I always appreciate the feedback and any suggestions.
As someone living in Pittsburgh, home of the Carnegie and Frick empires, this image really works for me, especially your treatment of the subject.
Thanks, Chris, glad you like it! I wonder if the Frick Co. here was part of the Pittsburgh Frick empire — the timing seems about right. I couldn’t find any additional information to confirm or deny it. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.