LOL @ bigbraader for the 'pavlovian automatic' comment - and it's true, there's a lot of that around these parts.. Anyway, I always like to consider the observer - like, is it neutral or through the eyes of somebody/something? In this case, I might imagine the pov to be that of a small animal. What's the situation? Eat some of those lovely plants or seek cover from the impending rain? Hmm. The light may be a little strange, but it sometimes is, just before the rain comes - haven't you noticed? Actually, a few raindrops might look good here..alright, enough incohesive rambling. Extremely good-looking plants, top-notch texturing (though the stones look metallic to my eyes?) and a beautiful render. What modeler did you use for this? Ring the bells!

Well, Thomas, I can't hardly think of anything useful to add to the above. I'm really impressed by the clarity and detailism of this image. You've really outdone yourself. Thumbs up, mate! :)

Great detail in this shot!

The plant life in the foreground is my favorite part of this image

Personally, I like the perspective. It looks kinda like you're hiding in the shrubs peeking up at the surroundings. (:

I like the composition a lot and division of light is not a problem here for me... I would be more sensitive to the difference of sharpness in the grain of stone texture compared to the crisp wooden stair... (that is because you ask..) @Mixednut : true that the low angle camera gives the idea that spectator is some animal (maybe a cat ..,) observing from this shadowed corner before adventuring into unknown territory... Excellent!

The POV and the panoramic layout really give the eye a lot of room to wander around this image. The mood you've set in this piece by your lighting really shows off the emotive talents you're flexing here. I agree, it does look like the right side of the image is the leading edge of a coming storm. Beautiful work.

Great concept and awesome vegetation. A little bit too much wall IMHO. I am curious of the stormy side of the sky. Excellent image as always.

As someone who often tinkers around with lighting myself, I admire this effort, Thomas, and understand what you were aiming at. I've seen a dark storm front come in and almost divide an area in half with different kinds of light. I always love your plant work, and the composition of your scenes. Excellent experiment; look forward to seeing more.

Djeser beat me to it - maybe I spend to much time outdoors, but I've seen many days, especially in the Fall and Spring that have such mixed lighting. Good experiment and an interesting outcome, and as art goes, if it provokes that is often good enought for the first century or so.

Hey Thomas...you pulled it off very well. Personally I would have liked to see more of that sky. Maybe a tut is in order? Great work as always, and please continue to experiment.

Awesome work indeed as always Thomas. I love the balance between peaceful and something lurking. Fantastic work...

That sky is awesome. Excellent work Mr. Krahn

Beaituful, I love the colors and the whole composition! ~*Siliphiel

I have been away and missed this one till now. A super image. I have gotten the same xfrog package and agree that the possibilities are endless for some fine detail work. An excellent render!

Oh, Wow! I want to talk to Eran Dinur. That wall is so yummy I want to try it in watercolor! Beautiful work, all around.