Our challenge photo has potential, but can you realise it?

Once again, here is a photo that has potential, but it needs some skill and application to make it really shine. Can you do it, and maybe even win a prize?

(click for a larger view in a new window) Can you make this picture better?

If you are interested in taking up the challenge, I'd recommend you download one of the original camera files (you have the choice of the RAW file or the JPEG file) and have a closer look than the previews available on this page.

The challenge picture was taken a few years ago at Brimham Rocks, in the wilds of North Yorkshire. The camera used was an unusual one - a Sigma SD10, with the unconventional Foveon X3 sensor. The camera doesn't even produce JPEG files, although you can download a JPEG produced by LightRoom 3 if you prefer not to work on the SD10 RAW file.

The view has potential, with some definition in the sky, the rolling landscape in the distance and the rocky foreground to the right. However the exposure has left a lot to be desired. The dark areas are too dark, and yet the blacks aren't particularly dense. There are also some sensor dust bunnies evident in the sky. Everything is lacking punch.

Can this picture be knocked into shape? It's up to you. In the past we've had challenge entries that have added an artistic element to the picture and so do feel free again to enhance the image in this way if you feel it's appropriate.

Original image file download links:

Original camera RAW file

JPEG file

Please note that these files and their images are copyrighted. Permission is granted for use and editing/manipulating for the sole purpose of entering this challenge. The images and derived images are not to be used for any other purpose without permission. In return, we promise not to use entries to the challenge for commercial gain without permission from the entrant.

Submit your entry

Once you have completed your work on the image, send a JPEG version to us attached to an email via [email protected] Please ensure that the JPEG file size does not exceed 5MB. The best entries will be judged in printed form.

We will then judge the best entries and present them to DPNow visitors and invite them to vote for their favourites. The top entrant will win a book from the DPNow library.

Finally, the deadline for entries is 8AM UK time on Monday, 5th July, 2010.

Have fun with the challenge and good luck!

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