Twin Towers Reflecting Pool: When I visited the Twin Towers memorial area in 2017, I was impressed that the reflecting pool provided a calm, somber mood to an area surrounded with tall...

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

When I visited the Twin Towers memorial area in 2017, I was impressed that the reflecting pool provided a calm, somber mood to an area surrounded with tall buildings, traffic and people. In editing some of these photos, I have attempted to convey that feeling in the pictures I took of that pool.

(Download)

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

This is a tough one for me, Mike. I am not getting somber because of the bright colors, especially the blue. I am not getting calm because of the sharp angles and with each composition holding quite a bit of information (busy).

I'm curious if you have tried any in b&w and I'm also interested to know which of the posted images you feel best represents your goals.

Thank you!

kenievans Loc: Dallas

Mike I think the first one comes the closest for me to what you described but I think a lot of that has to do with having been to the site myself, before they had completely finished cleaning it up. Just being at the site was very emotional and sobering. That feeling carries over when I see your photos knowing they were taken there. If I didn't know where they were shot I don't think I would have the same feeling about them. I would probably still pick #1 though for my favorite because of the composition and quality of the shot.

Bmac Loc: Long Island, NY

As someone who has been in the area many times I think you have presented the pools well. To me, although of course somber, the pools also convey hope and the ability to rise above tragedy. They are indeed a contrast to the hustle and bustle of urban life all around them.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

Linda From Maine wrote:

This is a tough one for me, Mike. I am not getting somber because of the bright colors, especially the blue. I am not getting calm because of the sharp angles and with each composition holding quite a bit of information (busy).

I'm curious if you have tried any in b&w and I'm also interested to know which of the posted images you feel best represents your goals.

Thank you!

You make an excellent point, Linda, but it has to do with my failure to make myself clear. I was impressed that this calm area existed in the middle of all the bustle. I wanted to show the bustle (reflections) as secondary to the pool. Clearly, I did not get there.

I am very inexpert at B&W, but that is a good idea.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

kenievans wrote:

Mike I think the first one comes the closest for m... (show quote)

Thanks for taking the time, Keni. I agree as to number 1. Also, it means a lot more if you have been there.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

Bmac wrote:

As someone who has been in the area many times I think you have presented the pools well. To me, although of course somber, the pools also convey hope and the ability to rise above tragedy. They are indeed a contrast to the hustle and bustle of urban life all around them.

What a good insight. I do not know the background of the design or the intent, but I like your interpretation.

Bmac Loc: Long Island, NY

Heck, leave them as they are. Blue is a calming color as are the reflections. There are enough dark shadows to create the somber part of it all. I think b&w would not work as well at all. Don't overanalyze what you have done here. Just my two cents.

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

UTMike wrote:

You make an excellent point, Linda, but it has to do with my failure to make myself clear...

Bmac wrote:

... the pools also convey hope and the ability to rise above tragedy...

I'm getting the picture now 👏

Rineal Loc: Copake NY

I think Nr 1 & 3 fulfill your goal very well and are well done!
Richard

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

Rineal wrote:

I think Nr 1 & 3 fulfill your goal very well and are well done!
Richard

Thanks for taking the time to look and comment, Richard.

artBob Loc: Near Chicago

#1 has it all for me. While all of them have good technique, this one establishes the location, reflects skyscrapers (in reminiscence), and the flowing water reflection reminds one of transience.

kenievans Loc: Dallas

artBob wrote:

#1 has it all for me. While all of them have good technique, this one establishes the location, reflects skyscrapers (in reminiscence), and the flowing water reflection reminds one of transience.

Very well said Bob! I concur.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

artBob wrote:

#1 has it all for me. While all of them have good technique, this one establishes the location, reflects skyscrapers (in reminiscence), and the flowing water reflection reminds one of transience.

I appreciate your encouraging comment, Bob.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

kenievans wrote:

Very well said Bob! I concur.

Thanks, Keni.