Enhancing Your Photography: The Power of Editing

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Hot guy in RED: Before Hot guy in RED: After

The above photos are from an event I attended with friends, and as an avid photographer, I naturally had my camera with me, capturing memorable moments throughout the day. While I mainly focused on my friends, there was one image that stood out – the striking “HOT GUY IN RED.” These two images represent the before and after of my basic editing process, which I’m excited to share here to demonstrate the value that post-processing can add to your photography.

Let’s start with the first and most obvious aspect of my editing process: background enhancement. Now, this is a topic that tends to spark passionate debates among photographers. Some argue that altering the background is inappropriate and detracts from the authenticity of the image, but I respectfully disagree.

Photography is an art form, and from the moment you pick up your camera and adjust settings like shutter speed, ISO, aperture, and lens choice, you’ve already deviated from the “natural” world. These settings impact the way your camera interprets light and captures the scene. Therefore, photography is, by nature, an interpretation of reality, influenced by your choices and perspective.

Post-processing, in my view, is an extension of this creative process. It allows us to take the image we’ve captured and fine-tune it to match the story we intend to convey. And that’s precisely what I aim to achieve with my editing.

Cleaning up the background, removing distractions, enhancing lighting and shadows – these are just a few elements that I believe can bring the focus where it belongs: on the subject. In the case of “HOT GUY IN RED,” it’s about accentuating what makes the subject compelling and ensuring that the viewer’s attention is drawn to the story we want to tell.

Ultimately, it comes down to your intent as a photographer. Are you seeking to enhance the story you’ve captured, or are you content with a straightforward representation of the moment? There’s no right or wrong answer; it’s all about the story you want to convey. My approach is to use editing as a tool to improve and emphasize the subject, ensuring that the viewer’s attention is on the narrative I want to share.

In conclusion, as photographers, we have the power to interpret and enhance the world through our lenses and editing software. While the debate on post-processing will likely continue, it’s essential to remember that photography is an art form, and our editing choices are part of the creative process. So whether you choose to embrace post-processing or prefer a more natural approach, what matters most is the story you tell through your images.

Colombo Fort Railway Station

Colombo Fort Railway Station
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The gallery of photos above is of the Colombo Fort Railway Station and is available for HQ viewing or to purchase on my website. Just click this link to get there.

This was an exciting day. I can still remember it vividly. This was my first ever real train journey. I say first ever real because I am not counting the Skytrain I ride in Vancouver. However I still remember riding that for the first time at Expo86 and that was awesome! I was just a very young boy and Expo86 was an adventure and the Skytrain was the most modern thing I had ever seen. But I digress. Colombo Fort was the start of my Kandy adventure and first ever classic train ride.

Colombo Fort Railway Station: A Jewel in Sri Lanka’s Railway Network

Historical Significance and Construction:

The Colombo Fort Railway Station, an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s capital city, Colombo, is a testament to the nation’s rich history and its enduring love affair with the railways. Its construction dates back to the late 19th century when Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) was under British colonial rule.

  • Colonial Influence: The railway station’s design and construction were heavily influenced by British colonial architects and engineers. It was built during a period when the British Empire was expanding its railway network across its colonies, making it an essential part of the colonial infrastructure.
  • Meticulous Design: The architectural design of Colombo Fort Railway Station embodies the fusion of British colonial architecture with local Sri Lankan elements. Its façade features elegant colonnades, ornate ironwork, and a striking clock tower that serves as a prominent landmark in the city. The station’s design is not merely utilitarian but showcases a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
  • Construction Materials: The station was constructed using a combination of materials, including red brick and timber. These materials not only added to its structural integrity but also contributed to the station’s timeless charm.

Importance to Colombo and Sri Lanka:

The Colombo Fort Railway Station is of paramount importance to both the city of Colombo and the nation of Sri Lanka as a whole.

  • Transport Hub: As the primary railway terminal in Colombo, it serves as the nexus of Sri Lanka’s railway network. It connects the capital city to various regions of the country, making it a critical transportation hub for commuters, tourists, and cargo transportation alike.
  • Historical Symbol: The railway station carries profound historical significance, as it played a pivotal role in the country’s development during the colonial era. It was the gateway to the export of Ceylon tea, an industry that significantly contributed to the nation’s economy.
  • Architectural Heritage: The station is not just a transportation hub; it is also a living testament to Sri Lanka’s architectural heritage. Its colonial-era design elements and meticulous craftsmanship continue to captivate visitors and serve as a reminder of the island’s history.
  • Economic Impact: The station facilitates the movement of goods and people, which is crucial for Sri Lanka’s economy. It plays a pivotal role in the transportation of commodities, including tea, rubber, and other exports, to the rest of the country and the world.
  • Tourism Hub: Colombo Fort Railway Station is often the first stop for tourists arriving in Colombo. It serves as a gateway to explore the city and the country’s scenic destinations, making it an integral part of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.
  • Cultural Heritage: Beyond its practical significance, the station holds cultural importance for Sri Lankans. It has been featured in numerous films, literature, and artwork, cementing its place in the nation’s cultural identity.

In essence, the Colombo Fort Railway Station is more than just a transportation facility; it is a living monument to Sri Lanka’s history, an architectural marvel, and a symbol of its enduring connection to the railways. As it continues to serve the people of Colombo and visitors from around the world, it remains a cherished icon that bridges the past with the present and the local with the global.

Bogambara Prison, Kandy

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Bogambara Prison, nestled in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, is steeped in history and has served as a formidable institution within the country’s penal system. This iconic correctional facility, known for its distinct architecture and historical significance, boasts a captivating story, complete with notable prisoners who contributed to its legacy. Here’s an in-depth exploration of Bogambara Prison’s history, architectural marvel, and renowned inmates:

Historical Background:

  • Construction Origins: The origins of Bogambara Prison date back to the late 19th century, during the British colonial era in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). Built in the 1870s, the prison was conceived as part of an administrative complex and was initially referred to as “Kachcheri Bogambara.”
  • Architectural Fusion: Architecturally, the prison melds elements of British colonial design with traditional local aesthetics. Its unique layout features a central courtyard surrounded by cell blocks radiating outward. This configuration was a common feature in many colonial-era prisons.

Notable Prisoners:
Throughout its storied history, Bogambara Prison has housed several noteworthy individuals, both political and criminal:

  • Political Detainees: During the tumultuous period of British colonial rule and later, Bogambara Prison served as a place of detention for political dissidents and nationalists who were vocal in their quest for Ceylon’s independence. The prison’s grim walls bore witness to the struggles of prominent figures in the island nation’s history, such as:
    • D. S. Senanayake: A prominent leader and the first Prime Minister of independent Ceylon, Senanayake was incarcerated in Bogambara Prison for his involvement in the struggle for self-rule.
    • S. W. R. D. Bandaranaike: A distinguished politician and the fourth Prime Minister of Ceylon, Bandaranaike spent time within Bogambara’s confines as a political prisoner.
    • Solomon West Ridgeway Dias (S. W. R. D.) Bandaranaike: This renowned statesman, whose tenure as Prime Minister marked significant social and political changes, was also temporarily detained in Bogambara Prison for his involvement in the country’s political evolution.
  • Common Criminals: Beyond its political inmates, the prison was also home to numerous common criminals over the years. These inmates represented a diverse array of offenses, from petty theft to more serious crimes, contributing to the complex’s colorful history.

Closure and Preservation:

  • Late 20th Century: By the late 20th century, Bogambara Prison faced growing concerns over its aging infrastructure and overcrowding. As a result, authorities decided to close the prison’s doors in the 1990s, with remaining inmates relocated to other correctional facilities.
  • Heritage Designation: Recognizing its historical significance, Bogambara Prison was designated a protected archaeological monument and heritage site. This designation aimed to safeguard the prison’s unique architectural features and historical legacy for future generations.
  • Redevelopment Vision: Over the years, there have been proposals and discussions regarding the revitalization of the Bogambara Prison complex. The intent is to preserve the historical essence of the site while reimagining its role in modern Kandy’s cultural and commercial landscape.

Bogambara Prison, with its intricate history and architectural charm, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s colonial past, struggle for independence, and the diverse array of individuals who played a part in shaping the nation’s destiny. While it may no longer serve as a place of incarceration, its cultural and historical importance ensures its place in the heart of Kandy’s heritage.

Chompers

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You can view Chompers in higher quality or buy the photo for as little as .95 cents on my site, just click this link.

This image shows a Sri Lankan street dog in Kandy. In this photo he is chomping down on what I assume is the jaw bone of a monkey. I asked ChatGPT to write a story for this and here is what I got back:

In the bustling streets of Colombo, Sri Lanka, there lived a street dog named Raja. He was a robust and muscular dog, his coat a blend of earthy tones that camouflaged perfectly with the urban landscape he called home. Raja had been a survivor on these streets for years, and he was not one to be trifled with.

Raja’s territory was a quiet alleyway behind a small market, a place where he found refuge from the commotion of the city. He was known for his sharp, territorial instincts and a bark that could send shivers down the spine of anyone who dared to encroach upon his turf. To most passersby, he was an intimidating presence, and they wisely kept their distance.

However, there were a few people in the neighborhood whom Raja had come to recognize and even trust. Among them was Kavi, a gentle fruit vendor who had taken pity on the street dog and often left him scraps of food. Over time, a cautious friendship had developed between them.

One sunny afternoon, as Raja lounged in the shade of a coconut tree, gnawing on a discarded coconut husk, Kavi approached him with a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. In his hand, he held a jawbone, the remnants of a monkey skull, with bits of flesh and fur still clinging to it.

Raja’s keen senses immediately detected the scent of the bone, and he regarded it with interest. Kavi crouched down, gently offering the jawbone to the street dog. “Here, Raja,” he said softly, “I found this near the forest outskirts. Thought you might like it.”

Raja cautiously accepted the offering, his eyes never leaving Kavi’s face. He took the jawbone into his strong jaws and began to gnaw at it. The remnants of the monkey’s flesh provided a satisfying, primal delight that echoed back to his days as a wild scavenger.

As Raja chewed on the bone, Kavi watched with a sense of satisfaction. He knew that, despite Raja’s tough exterior, the street dog deserved moments of comfort and reprieve from the harsh realities of his life on the streets.

Over time, this shared moment of trust deepened the bond between Raja and Kavi. Raja began to tolerate Kavi’s presence more readily and even allowed occasional gentle pats on his head. The alleyway behind the market became a sanctuary not just for Raja, but for a unique friendship that transcended the boundaries of species.

As Raja continued to guard his territory and assert his presence on the bustling streets of Colombo, he carried with him the memory of that fateful day when Kavi offered him a simple gift – a monkey’s jawbone – a gesture that reminded him that even in the toughest of circumstances, kindness and trust could bridge the gap between a street dog and a caring soul.

Sri Lankan Sloth Bear

Sri Lankan Sloth Bear
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Available on my site for purchase in much higher quality than this compressed jpg. Grab it for .95 cents!

This is just a quick post before I run off to grab my hubby from the skytrain. I’ve started work on editing the sloth bear we were fortunate enough to photograph as we left Wilpattu Nation Park Sri Lanka

This guy was so close to the Jeep my lens was at its minimum focusing distance. But more on that later. Edited the image to a black & blue.

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