Yes, that is an attractive balance of line and form, as you say. The rounded shapes contrast nicely with those straight lines.
Those lines are indeed mysterious and look far too regular to be caused by wear. I did some research and the general idea is that they were indeed caused by wheels. Once there is a bit of a rut, all following wheels will find their way into it and wear it further. I also found this interesting article, which suggest roadworks in a busy main street in Pompeii were as annoying and disruptive as they would be today, especially as paving with cobblestones would be more tedious than modern methods, so they came up with the idea of using molten iron to repair it quicker!
archaeology.org/news/2019/05/15/190515-pompeii-iron-roads/
July 9, 2025
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This is fun. I think if you had posted any one of these, I would have been impressed, but now it's time to make a choice.
Comparing #1 and #2, I prefer #2, as the rock at the bottom of #1 seems cut off.
I prefer #3 compared to #2 as objects have been cut out, making the composition is cleaner. There is a nice diagonal balance between the rocks at bottom rignt and the waterfall towards the top left, whereas #2 is more vertical with the big rock and the waterfall right above it. I wondered about the relatively empty expanse of water bottom left, but the brighter patch of water and then the colours going from a bright yellowy green to a dark blue-green is very attractive, so it really doesn't seem lacking in interest.
In #4 the multitude of objects are back, but this time I like the balance better, with that rock at bottom left. I also like the almost square format. But is it better than #3? When I started to write this, I thought it was, but in the meantime I think I prefer #3. -
It is interesting, that these two were taken at the same place, beause they trigger very different emotions.
The first has something dark and sinister about it. Yes, the contrasty B&W helps that, but I think it is also because I cannot tell exactly what I am looking at. The shadows are hard to reconcile with the objects casting them, and they look like rather satanic upturned crosses. This uncertainty creates a tense and defensive attitude. It's a treat, like watching a Hitchcock film.
The second is more joyous. The world is spinning, but we seem drunk with pleasure, helped by the positive Spring greens. The dancing bokeh works well with the waves in the wrought ironwork and shows the lens was an inspired choice for this subject.
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This is a nice peaceful rural scene.
The highlights on the cows are overexposed and, since they are the main subject, it would be good to darken them, if the RAW file contains enough data. -
The photo certainly conveys the message of a privatised paradise well. It does so even better than last week's post, but lacks its beautiful light, so is not as attractive.
I didn't notice the brass door knob either! The gate is too dark to show that off or even to identify it as a gate. It doesn't really matter, as it just comes across as more vertical prison bars. -
I can't add anything to what Chris and Mike have already said. Except maybe that people could travel a long way looking for this beautiful scene, but you found it in your garden!
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Stately and imposing. The buildings look as important as the looming peaks.
The mountain is shrouded in clouds and mist, maintaining mystery and grandeur.
Rich
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Attempts of man to rival the longevity of the rocks. The texture is attention-getting. But nothing lasts . . .
Rich
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I like number 4. I think the composition is best balanced. The colors are vivid (in all) and inviting.
Rich
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I don't get the first one.
I like the close-up detail and texture of #2, but I'm not a fan of swirling OOF backgrounds.
Rich
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Nice. Close community spirit.
"Do not muddy the waters around you. You may have to drink it soon!"
Rich
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Beautiful display from nature. Hard to beat. Did it look this good "in person?"
And the inexorable march of technology which we apparently cannot resist.
Rich
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I like #3 the most.
It needs a little editing, but is the most interesting. Great light, shadow, shapes and patterns.
Rich