I hope you dont, but i have posted this image both here and in the Mini Challenge forum so that I can get some feedback from a broader spectrum of members that dont frequent both areas of the board.

The original can be found here: Original (http://www.retouchpro.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5459)

Beautiful work! What can I say? I'm not especially into retouching objects but I see clearly that you've done it well!

Very nice Axle! A possiblity perhaps is to light the interior. Perhaps the lighthouse keeper is at home tonite.

Cheers
Dave

Sorry Dave, most lighthouses don't have keepers anymore, the vast majority of them are automated now.

Hi Gary. Ya, we've had dozens close or be automated all around Vancouver Island. There's some interesting detail in the interior and who knows. Maybe there was just one lighthouse left with an innkeeper. Just for nostalgia's sake. Thought it would go with the outside lights and garden as well.

Cheers
Dave

From an artistic standpoint it works well, but if there is enough moisture in the air that the beam from the light is visible, there should be a much softer, more diffused glow from the lights, both on the house and along the walkway. They should probably have visible beams that come out of the sides and their light should more fade out into the distance (probably 8-10 feet) than make a defined circle. It would add a lot to the beleivability of the image.

Dave, I think I'm right in saying that all British Lighthouses are now automated. Some of the offshore ones remained manned for a time, but even they are now automated. But I agree that the image would look good if it was lit as if it were manned, just for nostalgia's sake. Besides, if it has flower beds, someone must live there.

Axl your picture scares me... :cold:
Reminds me of haunted house theme, the sky is too much in a mad rush to be seen in a normal setting, and the lightening at the door is really eerie... :nod:

But if thats the effect you were after then well done! its scary and would be great for the next halloween!

Gary, I tried to locate this lighthouse in New Jersey. Couldn't find a pic but did find the Chapel Hill Lighthouse in Jersey that was pretty much the same architectural style. It actually was converted to a home but it was also a larger structure. This lighthouse would be perfect for a single solitary soul don't you think? Yes, I miss the steam engine too!

Dave

As an Ex Merchant Navy Officer, I have a great affinity for lighthouses, and yes I would love to retreat to somewhere that secluded. And I can remember going to the seaside as a child, travelling behind a steam train, so I'm a steam fan too.

You gents may find this interesting to read

Lighthouse Information (http://www.fiddlersgreen.net/buildings/lighthouses/mukilteo/info/info.htm)

Thanks for the link Axle, I found it extremely interesting. It confirmed the fact that it is now automated, as alas too many lights now are. Automation is fine, but it takes away keepers, who not only tended the lamp, but acted as valuable coast watchers as well. Many seamen have been saved by the timely observation of lighthouse keepers.

Thank you Axle. Ditto to Gary's comments. By the way, I really do like your creation.

Dave

Thanks guys, was an interesting subject to work on, was also interesting having a read about it history, kind of puts a nice touch to the whole work process.

I like it...very nice work!