Thursday, October 21, 2010

Crop circles never looked this bright

Photograph copyright: DAVID McMAHON. (Image ID: 125-7639)


Just a simple shot of a set of watercolours. I meant to shoot this before they had been opened and used, but I obviously waited too long! However, at this point I realised that the real beauty in this everyday image was the fact that the paintbox had actually been used and therefore had acquired more "character". Do you agree?

Bear in mind, this is a low-resolution version of the original. If you want to see the hi-res version, just click here and you'll even have the option of clicking on the "View larger" tab.

AND HERE'S A BONUS: If you want to enter a fun title-writing contest for an offbeat image of mine, just click here. Be creative, have fun - and pass the word around!

35 comments:

  1. I totally agree. Brand new would make a pleasant shot. This makes a spectacular shot.

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  2. I like the fact that the paints have been used. Makes a lovely shot.
    Maggie X

    Nuts in May

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  3. David, you're back! I missed it until this post showed up on my blog list.

    I like the added character that comes from use.

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  4. Thanks very much - glad this shot caught your eye!

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  5. Merci, Hilary - the shot would have been too clinical if the paint had been unused!

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  6. Thanks, Maggie

    I didn't realise it at the time - but you're absolutely right!

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  7. Hi there, Anna

    Yes, I took the plunge a few days ago! And it's great to be back among such good friends.

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  8. there is beauty in the imperfect...nice shot...used to paint with watercolor a bit myself.

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  9. Thanks for that feedback, Brian. I always have paint and brushes at the ready. My kids and I often paint together - as the joy is doubled that way!

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  10. Better that they ARE used - agree more character.
    If I could find a "Paint By Numbers" book I might have a crack myself!" LOL
    Maggie was the artist in our family!

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  11. I agree that the used colors are better pleasing to my eye. It means they have made someone smile. Funny pink is not my most cherished color but I found myself staring at that light pink with the smear of blue on the edge.

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  12. Most definitely, a lovely image.

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  13. Watercolors brand new are uninspiring. Used watercolors share their usefulness between the artist and the people who appreciate the art.

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  14. Yes!!! More character!!! And of course, you KNOW I LOVE this one!!! Beautiful shot, David!!! Cheers! Janine

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  15. Welcome back, David!! I've missed your shots and quips!!w

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  16. Hi Eddie, I always figured Maggie would be perfectly suited to painting. She is also an artist with words.

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  17. I know exactly what you means, Jules - I was also intrigued by the touch of blue on the pink!

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  18. Thanks Denise - just as much pleasure shooting the paint as in daubing it on paper.

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  19. I think I have to concur wholeheartdely with you on that, TechnoBabe.

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  20. Thanks so much, Janine, yes I do remember what you had to say about this image when I posted it on RB! You are so very kind.

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  21. Thanks so much, Carol - it was a very happy moment for me when I decided to immerse myself in the blog again.

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  22. Thanks, Sheila - so glad you like the shot.

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  23. Beautiful!!!! (I like it much better with the paints being used...love sheen that the water gives...a great shot!)

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  24. Thanks, teacher's Pet - yes, paint always has a bit of character after it's been used for the first time!

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  25. Very rich and cheerful shot!

    How weird, I left a comment on your "Time to brush away the cobewbs" post, and it bounced back as undelivered, to me. Now I've checked, seems it did publish (shrug). Blogger is playing tricks on me!

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  26. Much more fun used .. and more fun was had using it I am sure

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  27. Lovely colours and you're right it is more interesting for being used. :)

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  28. Hi Shrink,

    Wonderful to see your smiling face here. Yes, thank you for the great comment on my "Time to brsuh away the cobwebs" post.

    Muchas gracias. Hope you had a good trip and that all is well at Casa Shrinky!

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  29. Thank you, Daryl

    And after I'd taken this and other shots, I promptly put the paint to brush.

    Cheers

    Den Mom

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  30. Thanks, Akelamalu,

    Appreciate the thought that you agree it looks better for being used!

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  31. If the paint box is this good, whats the pallette like? David.

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  32. Absolutely they're better used. I hope you'll photograph it again when there are places worn all the way to the bottom! Crayons should be peeled and worn to a nub and paints should be splattered and schmeary - I made up that word! :)

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  33. Oh definitely agree, it's much more interesting having been used, because then it's unique.
    I also love that we don't see all of the row in the forefront, it's a tiny bit of a tease.

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