We had a NYC firefighter, who does tree stump removal on the side, come and remove several tree stumps. This is what I came up with.

While he was working I was busy taking other pictures as well.

Lovely colours in these. I like those low down shots of the grass and flowers.

Looks good, any hints on what you did with the photos?

Odin,
It's actually quite simple. I run the G'mic Black & White Filter called Pencil (I have the output set to create a new layer). Note: I find that if I resize the image to 1200x900 the default settings provide a pretty good output, but if the image is larger then you have to adjust the filter's default settings. I then set the Layer Mode to Value. Sometimes I'll also run the FX Foundry Lasm's LAB WOW color filter to enhance the colors. Flatten image and then adjust contrast/levels to your liking.

I like your technique. It reminds me of paintings my Aunt use to do. They were obvious paintings but photo realistic. A Lady of amazing talent. Her father was a nature photographer who built all his own darkroom equipment and my mother was a talented musician. A very artistic family.

The jury is still out on me

Odin,
The jury is still out on me too. I wish I had the talent of some of the folks I've seen. Anyway, are you able to post any examples of your Aunt's work?

I wish I could. I had a house fire about 10 years ago. Everything's gone. The loss of paintings, photos and heirlooms was heartbreaking. Thank God everyone survived.

Odin,
I'm sorry to hear that. That is a devastating loss, but as you said, thankfully no one got hurt. We had a fire here as well about 11 years ago while we were down in Virginia. No one was home, but the entire house burned down.

Yes, it's something I wouldn't wish anyone to experience. I too was away on a ski trip to Whistler. There were three people at home at time who were the lucky ones. It gives you a new outlook on what's important in your life.