Photo Critique (February)

[fett]

I had mentioned this idea in the photo of the day thread for a place that photo's could be posted to receive constructive feedback and criticism. I was thinking that a rating out of 5 could be used and then explain why you gave the rating you did. Comment only about the photo nothing personal, if you are going to just give 0/5 don't bother posting that.

The photo of the day thread should still be used for sharing photos where I see this thread will have more discussion about the photos (I hope).

EDIT: I think it should be kept to one photo a day per user.

Mods if you think this is a bad idea or it should be part of the daily photo thread feel free to lock or delete this thread

I'll get it started.

FROST
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2181/2242112801_e388dbc281.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2242112801/)

[fett]

I'll do my own photo as an example of what I was thinking.

Frost:
3/5 - The pine needles of the right side of the photo lead the eyes out of the photo, maybe a different crop or lower f/stop to create more DOF would help.

[marclapierre13]

Why make it "daily" and why make it monthly?

In other forums, there is just a Critique thread. Just my 2cents. Then again, this is probably a more used forum, and the monthly section might not be a bad idea, other wise youll have to scan through hundreds of pages.

But I would change the name from "Daily Critique" to just "Photo Critique"

Great idea BTW:)

[fett]

Why make it "daily" and why make it monthly?

In other forums, there is just a Critique thread. Just my 2cents. Then again, this is probably a more used forum, and the monthly section might not be a bad idea, other wise youll have to scan through hundreds of pages.

But I would change the name from "Daily Critique" to just "Photo Critique"

Great idea BTW:)

Name changed, Photo Critique is better. I think the mods might like it to be monthly so it doesn't grow huge like the photo of the day thread did.

[marclapierre13]

FROST:

I am finding it hard to critique this photo. It's not a bad photo, but it is fairly simple. I actually quite like it, I find it pleasing to the eye, the way that it starts in the shadowed area (left side) and then it makes you eye travel to the lighter area (right side). I also like how the focus in the far back is out, it makes it more interesting. I personally like how it makes your eye travel from the left side of the photo to the right.

[Digital Skunk]

That idea sounds good to me, but I feel that many posters will either give you advice/critiques that the photogs want to hear (because the posters are unexperienced) or the few posters that do this for a living will step in and be honest and give the best advice of all.

Now... I give it a 3/5. It's a good photo but my mind can't wrap around anything else about it. It's empty after you get past the frost, it doesn't tell my anything and there is no human interaction or emotion to drive the image where the photog wants it to go.

It is a great example of contrast and the shooter did a good job of balancing the shadows and the highlights of the frost.

[fett]

Thanks Marc and Skunk. This is the type of feedback I think that could be really useful. Hopefully this thread will catch on.

Marc: I do like how the eye moves left to right but a couple of almost in focus needles go out of the frame and I find that it leads my eye out.

Skunk: I agree the photo is interesting but lacks any story or emotion.

I picked this photo because I knew it was an average photo at best in hopes that by putting myself out there first it would encourage others to do the same.

[marclapierre13]

Thanks Marc and Skunk. This is the type of feedback I think that could be really useful. Hopefully this thread will catch on.

Marc: I do like how the eye moves left to right but a couple of almost in focus needles go out of the frame and I find that it leads my eye out.

Skunk: I agree the photo is interesting but lacks any story or emotion.

I picked this photo because I knew it was an average photo at best in hopes that by putting myself out there first it would encourage others to do the same.


Exactly, as I said, its a simple photo, some what average. Thats not to say it isnt good though. I think it would make a neat postcard type thing, or one of those "moo" cards. One other thing I see is there is a gray speck in the middleish right side, that I find stands out and is distracting. Did you use photo shop on it at all? Maybe try "smudging" or "cloning" that speck out?

[SLC Flyfishing]

I posted two of these in Photo of the Day but I want some real criticism of them as a series and also on my technique!

So here's the Hunted to Extinction series:

http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/brinton_photos/TheHunters.jpg
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/brinton_photos/IMGP0216.jpg
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/brinton_photos/IMGP0297.jpg

So, let me have it!

SLC

[HomeingPigeon]

I remember I posted this picture somewhere but I don't remember where. I am trying to get an old time feel to it. My overall goal is that I want to take a 4.00 per gallon picture and make it look like it is from when gas and diesel cost about a nickel a gallon. If you would like me to post the original image I will.

[timtam]

I remember I posted this picture somewhere but I don't remember where. I am trying to get an old time feel to it. My overall goal is that I want to take a 4.00 per gallon picture and make it look like it is from when gas and diesel cost about a nickel a gallon. If you would like me to post the original image I will.

I remembered your photo, nicely done with photoshop (I assume)? the original was a good pic as well.
Your photo creates more "feel" to it, great job

[marclapierre13]

On the other forum I was talking about, we have a rule.
A minimum of 3 critiques must be posted on the previous photo before a new photo can be posted to get critiqued. It worked well. The only problem, is because like I said it is a smaller local forum, when no body started posting critiques, the thread died out because no one could post new photos. So something to consider, so we dont get tons of photos at the same time. Maybe we should do something like that, or similar? perhaps a min. of 2 critiques before a new photo can be posted?

[onomatopoeia]

I remember I posted this picture somewhere but I don't remember where. I am trying to get an old time feel to it. My overall goal is that I want to take a 4.00 per gallon picture and make it look like it is from when gas and diesel cost about a nickel a gallon. If you would like me to post the original image I will.

I like your idea but I don't care for the "swirl" effect added in post. It looks amateurish.

[fett]

I posted two of these in Photo of the Day but I want some real criticism of them as a series and also on my technique!

So, let me have it!

SLC
3/5- Of the three photos the bottom one is the best photo IMO. It's a very interesting subject but I find having bottom hand cut off distracting. I think shooting a little wider to get more of the skeleton into frame and maybe getting lower to ground to be closer to the skeleton's level would have made a better photo.

WOW this is harder to do than I thought.

I remember I posted this picture somewhere but I don't remember where. I am trying to get an old time feel to it. My overall goal is that I want to take a 4.00 per gallon picture and make it look like it is from when gas and diesel cost about a nickel a gallon. If you would like me to post the original image I will.

3/5 - I like what you have done with the colors but I don't think the photoshop effect adds to the photo. I think it would be better to crop closer to the sign and make the image more vertical.

[Everythingisnt]

I posted two of these in Photo of the Day but I want some real criticism of them as a series and also on my technique!

So here's the Hunted to Extinction series:

http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc226/brinton_photos/TheHunters.jpg

So, let me have it!

SLC

By far my favorite. It isn't so much the composure of the photo, but the story that's being told which makes it stand out, IMO. I just love the way the caveman's skeleton looks, and it's posture... Don't worry, you have a good reason to like these photos :).

As for the other two, I thought they were really good as well, just not *as* good as your first. I would try, as I think fett has suggested, simplifying the image a bit (i.e. making sure you don't have any cut-off pieces of skeleton or an untidy background). Beyond that, I think that these photos are truly exceptional in their own, unique way. (4.5/5 for the first, and 3.5/5 for the last 2)

Edit: as for HomeingPigeon, I agree with what a previous poster said. While you have a visually enticing photo there, I am sure that it would be much better without the blur. While the blur may work if you plan on using the image as a thumbnail or such, I think that the overall effect it has on the photos composure isn't very good. 3/5

[SLC Flyfishing]

Well thank you everythingisnt!

Will we be seeing some of your photos anytime soon?

SLC

[fett]

I'll post another one to keep the thread going. I'm toying with the idea of creating the valentine's card myself this year. This was my first attempt.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2010/2244919514_3cd2a096df.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2244919514/)

[Digital Skunk]

I'll post another one to keep the thread going. I'm toying with the idea of creating the valentine's card myself this year. This was my first attempt.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2010/2244919514_3cd2a096df.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2244919514/)

Good one. I would give it a 3/5 standard, but a 5/5 because the special someone will love it. It is different and there is something more happening in the scene besides being a rainy day. I would have to ask if the shape happened to appear there, or that's how you drew it? If it was natural then that makes for a wonderful candid/editorial piece. If you drew it than it's still a good shot compositionally IMHO, but it sends the image down the road of, "What else." There's that missing element somewhere, like we are waiting for something more.

By the way... I am a journalist so my opinion is going to lead me toward that area of photography. No hard feelings I hope.

p.s. send that photo into Apple, they may want to use if for their iCards.

[seniorstinky]

I'll post another one to keep the thread going. I'm toying with the idea of creating the valentine's card myself this year. This was my first attempt.

I agree with DS about the score on both counts.

What I'd add is that the I'd go vertical and crop off the left side of the photo. The rail doesn't add anything to the photo and most cards are vertically inclined.

[Everythingisnt]

I agree with SeniorStinky about cropping out the rail on this one, fett. Besides that I don't think it could be drastically improved. While perhaps you could experiment with retaking it in different tone sets or overall hues, the texture of the drops and the way that the heart stands out is quite excellent. 3.75/5

Here's one of mine that I have been toying around with. I'm not quite sure how much I like it but I would definitely appreciate any ways I could make it better :).

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/5537/seats5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[fett]

.... If you drew it than it's still a good shot compositionally IMHO, but it sends the image down the road of, "What else." There's that missing element somewhere, like we are waiting for something more.

By the way... I am a journalist so my opinion is going to lead me toward that area of photography. No hard feelings I hope.

p.s. send that photo into Apple, they may want to use if for their iCards.

First of course there is no hard feelings. I'm thankful for your honest opinion. I think I might try sending it too apple thanks for the idea.

I drew the heart on the window and even fixed it in photoshop

I agree with DS about the score on both counts.

What I'd add is that the I'd go vertical and crop off the left side of the photo. The rail doesn't add anything to the photo and most cards are vertically inclined.

Thanks, I'm going to play around with the cropping and see how I like it.


Here's one of mine that I have been toying around with. I'm not quite sure how much I like it but I would definitely appreciate any ways I could make it better :).

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/5537/seats5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Everythingisnt: I actually really like that photo. 4/5 - the only thing that I can think of is maybe have the horizon on the bottom 3rd line instead of in the middle. One more thing, if you had a graduated neutral density filter could have exposed the rocks and see a couple of stops more and had a bit darker sky. I've never used one though I usually will bracket my landscapes and merge in photoshop. Good job and I would be making more trips to this location. Very nice spot for photography.

[zirkle2007]

I agree with SeniorStinky about cropping out the rail on this one, fett. Besides that I don't think it could be drastically improved. While perhaps you could experiment with retaking it in different tone sets or overall hues, the texture of the drops and the way that the heart stands out is quite excellent. 3.75/5

Here's one of mine that I have been toying around with. I'm not quite sure how much I like it but I would definitely appreciate any ways I could make it better :).


I like this picture a lot. I'm a big fan of landscapes! I say 4/5. The only thing I would try to work on, like fett said, lighten up the rocks. Towards the bottom right they are like a black void. It would add a lot to be able to pick out the rocks. I wouldn't brighten them too much, I like the dark look, but just enough to see the individual rocks.

[zirkle2007]

Here's mine.

http://jzirkdesign.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/dsc_0009.jpg

Its not much. I just got a new camera and its a result of me playing with it. I do a lot of nature shots and the weather has just not been cooperating here in Indiana. What can I do to improve? Be open!

[SLC Flyfishing]

Here's one of mine that I have been toying around with. I'm not quite sure how much I like it but I would definitely appreciate any ways I could make it better :).

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/5537/seats5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I like it, I'm going to say 3.5 out of 5 simply because I think that it needs a little more attention on the crop! I'd agree that either cropping a larger portion of the sky out, or cropping some of the sea away would really help this one! It's always best to have a lot of one or the other depending on what looks best to you. Either way, the horizon needs to be on a third line! Other than that, great job!

SLC

[Everythingisnt]

Everythingisnt: I actually really like that photo. 4/5 - the only thing that I can think of is maybe have the horizon on the bottom 3rd line instead of in the middle. One more thing, if you had a graduated neutral density filter could have exposed the rocks and see a couple of stops more and had a bit darker sky. I've never used one though I usually will bracket my landscapes and merge in photoshop. Good job and I would be making more trips to this location. Very nice spot for photography.

Thanks :). I know that whenever I look at this photo, something never really seems to "click" like it does with some of my others. Hopefully a crop will help change this. As for the lighting, I think that I will try to bracket my exposures and merge them in photoshop (like you do) when I re-take this. The only difficulty will be the fact that the water around here is very dynamic, and could generate some serious 'ghosting' in a combined image. (Unless I manage to subtly mask in the lightened rocks while leaving the water at normal exposure... :D)

As for the spot, you're absolutely right. It's a beach off of Point Grey (near where I live, in Vancouver), and it has the most beautiful sunsets ever. I remember posting a sunset picture taken from here on the photo of the day thread, in fact!

I like this picture a lot. I'm a big fan of landscapes! I say 4/5. The only thing I would try to work on, like fett said, lighten up the rocks. Towards the bottom right they are like a black void. It would add a lot to be able to pick out the rocks. I wouldn't brighten them too much, I like the dark look, but just enough to see the individual rocks.

Thanks for the rating as well! I already tried brightening in photoshop/aperture but I get too much of a 'grainy' look if I do. While the original file has lighter rocks, the sky is too monotone for my liking, which is why i fiddled with the contrast earlier. I think that i'll try retaking it, as I said earlier.

I like it, I'm going to say 3.5 out of 5 simply because I think that it needs a little more attention on the crop! I'd agree that either cropping a larger portion of the sky out, or cropping some of the sea away would really help this one! It's always best to have a lot of one or the other depending on what looks best to you. Either way, the horizon needs to be on a third line! Other than that, great job!
SLC

Good pointers about cropping. I am definitely going to review the photo and possibly get better results in a re-take. I don't really think that cropping out the sky is an option, because if I do I lose alot of the bright sun-flare. However, if I try to crop out the bottom, I end up losing alot of the rocks, which I particularly like in this photo because of the way that the light reflects off of them. I think that I'll try fix these in a re-take ;). Anyways - thanks for the comment :D



As for your photo, Zirkle, I like the way that it's composed. I see what you mean about the weather not cooperating, as I think that it would look better with either a clear/sunny sky. Also, you might want to try uncluttering the sides/top of the frame - or, if you don't have the space to do that, getting a bit closer so that the way you show off the tangle of branches isn't as distracting. Besides that I'd watch the lighting, as it's quite washed-out where I presume the sun is hiding behind the tree. It gives the other one a bit of a silhouetted look, which I (personally) don't think fits with the rest of the photo.

Anyway, nice pic! 3/5 as I think it has alot of potential.. And btw enjoy your new camera :).

[fett]

Thanks :). I know that whenever I look at this photo, something never really seems to "click" like it does with some of my others. Hopefully a crop will help change this. As for the lighting, I think that I will try to bracket my exposures and merge them in photoshop (like you do) when I re-take this. The only difficulty will be the fact that the water around here is very dynamic, and could generate some serious 'ghosting' in a combined image. (Unless I manage to subtly mask in the lightened rocks while leaving the water at normal exposure... :D)

This is what I do when I bracket my shot, I go from one exposure that is good for the sky and one for everything else. Then in photoshop use two layers with the sky on the top layer. I then mask out the top layer and then paint back in the sky portion. Very quick and gets pretty good results.

I am going to be getting a neutral density filter though, my goal is to get as much as I can in camera.

[SLC Flyfishing]

Here's what I had in mind, I hope you don't mind! If it's not agreeable just let me know and I'll remove it (I've already deleted it from my computer). But I think this crop is more pleasing.

[Everythingisnt]

Thanks for the tips, fett :).

And I don't mind at all, SLC! That's a very attractive crop, actually. I'll probably try and achieve something similar to that when I re-take it, as I want the emphasis to be on the rocks and the waves as they crash together.

[fett]

I really like it cropped that way. I'm looking forward to the re-take.

[zirkle2007]

So is there a limit to how often we can put up a picture for feedback? Just wondering.

So this is another one I've pulled from playing around.

http://jzirkdesign.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/dsc_0013.jpg

Does anyone know how I could link that so it shows up here?

Anyways, I wish I could take it again, because I would definitely move the food/water bowl in the back, and probably get rid of the objects on the right. I guess I just really like this one because its hard to get cats to cooperate with a shot...:p

[Shacklebolt]

So is there a limit to how often we can put up a picture for feedback? Just wondering.

So this is another one I've pulled from playing around.

http://jzirkdesign.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/dsc_0013.jpg

Does anyone know how I could link that so it shows up here?

Anyways, I wish I could take it again, because I would definitely move the food/water bowl in the back, and probably get rid of the objects on the right. I guess I just really like this one because its hard to get cats to cooperate with a shot...:p

It's ... alright. We do have a fair number of cat photos, and I don't find anything particularly spectacular about this one. You're right too - some of the objects in the photo are a bit distracting. But yeah, pets are tough. You need a bit of luck to get a good shot.

[pdxflint]

Alrighty then... ready for criticism. Location is in Powell's Bookstore, Portland OR.

http://lh3.google.com/pdxflint/Rpa1AA4Q5gI/AAAAAAAACB8/Oxxo7RrsPxI/s800/DSC_4988.JPG

Model: NIKON D50
Exposure: 1/40 sec
Aperture: f/5.0
Focal Length: 18mm

fett: I guess I already critiqued your "valentines" photo in the daily pic thread, and I agree with the vertical crop idea if you want to make a card out of it... otherwise, I kind of like the whole thing as it is for a large print.

[Shacklebolt]

A wiser photographer than myself once said that "a good photograph is one in which the photographer works with his gear to achieve a well-exposed, well-composed image that tells a story or has some artistic merit."

I'm not a huge fan of the lighting. The glare from the outside is a bit distracting. Plus, what is this photo supposed to be about? The guy at the desk? The symmetry of the bookshelves? I just don't take a lot from it.

[Shacklebolt]

Concert photo taken w/
Nikon d80
Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D
f/1.4
Shutter: 1/20
ISO: 800

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2014/2246137390_c97ccd3dc3_o.jpg

[mattwe]

Fett: I really like the valentines card and would leave the rail in - I think it is well framed (but isn't necessarily 'card framed'). Totally random idea - since it is a posed pic, I think it would have been cool to take it from the outside looking in with a nicely bokeh'd silhouette in the heart (to increase the storytelling aspect of the pic).

Everythingisnt: Beautiful shot - Where was it if you don't mind me asking? I would like the horizon about an inch lower but love the very shadowed/underexposed rocks - they add a mystique to the shot.

Pdxflint: I think I get the story you are trying to tell, but it isn't quite there - the lighting is very distracting (especially the glare off the books). I think it could have been a great shot if it had been from a different angle (maybe more down looking up) and if the sun had cooperated more.

Shackle: cool concert shot. I have taken a lot of pics at concerts and know how hard it can be to get "that moment" - I think you did it well. I might crop the crowd out a bit, but that is personal preference.

I will wait and submit a pic once some more critiques have come up (although I have not had much time and only have a couple of shots from the K10 that I like).

Disclaimer: these are the rambling ideas of a semi-enthusiast.

[Digital Skunk]

Alrighty then... ready for criticism. Location is in Powell's Bookstore, Portland OR.

http://lh3.google.com/pdxflint/Rpa1AA4Q5gI/AAAAAAAACB8/Oxxo7RrsPxI/s800/DSC_4988.JPG

Model: NIKON D50
Exposure: 1/40 sec
Aperture: f/5.0
Focal Length: 18mm

fett: I guess I already critiqued your "valentines" photo in the daily pic thread, and I agree with the vertical crop idea if you want to make a card out of it... otherwise, I kind of like the whole thing as it is for a large print.

I like this photo because it is something that I can critique much further than I thought once I looked at it for a while. I give it a 2.5-3/5. The image attempts for symmetry but it's not quite there with the ladder and the off center angle. It's got some great color in the wood of the bookshelves, a tad bit on the yellow side but that's what you get with the mixed lighting and the wood.

The part that is the big let down is the guy on the end. I don't mean to be harsh, he just isn't interesting and the blown highlights are really making his boredom pop out.

- Lower angle, get on your knees.
- It's okay to move things if you aren't shooting journalistically so get that ladder out of the way next time
- Get closer to your subject, the guy I assume, and put more of those elements like his book bag, the papers, and his books into the scene to really give that "I am studying feel"
- Expose for the highlights. That guy may have to have been silhouetted and the bookshelves under exposed to get the guy as the center of focus. Then you could have gotten the shelves back in post which is perfectly fine both artistically and journalistically.

Good photo though, those are the images that you grow from and that show that the photog has an eye that is dying to be trained.

Concert photo taken w/
Nikon d80
Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D
f/1.4
Shutter: 1/20
ISO: 800

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2014/2246137390_c97ccd3dc3_o.jpg

Concert photography is going to evoke more emotion that most others. People go to concerts to hear the music they love, and that music makes them feel a certain way, or gives them an idea, or feeling that another genre can't give. That's what has to be captured in concert photography. The image is good, but the first thing that someone may ask is, "What type of music is he singing?" and a lot of times photos of the concerts don't portray that or give mixed messages.

The best concert photography passes that on to the viewer almost immediately without hesitation.

Look at the attachment below. You can tell what genre this band is in even if you have never seen them or heard of them. The flames, the crazy face, and the lighting lead you right into what emotions or feelings people may get from the music, or what makes the band unique.

In defense of the photographer, most concerts don't have as much invested in lighting as mainstream or high end indie music, and some bands don't try their best to give that band culture/feel to the public.

[Digital Skunk]

To be fair:

Nikon D2hs
f/2.8
ISO400
34 mm
1/160

Background: NABJ shootout contest. Theme: African American influence on Las Vegas.

Caption: (if you want to be a journalist, this is the most important part of your image, I learned the hard way while I was in school.) Phil Ellis is an air brush artist that originally hails from Tampa Bay Florida, but left a managerial position and moved to Las Vegas four months ago to open his own air brushing business. Ellis expresses his love for Las Vegas in his artwork and says that the cities nice friends, nice work, and nice customers keep him going throughout his workday. He also says that the driving force behind his business, titled Fresh Made Inc., is his strong faith in God and his self taught abilities.

[SLC Flyfishing]

Wow digitalskunk, you really did a great job with this one! I like that you kept the ISO down even though it's a low light shot, it shows that you care about your images enough to do what it takes. A high ISO shot would have looked grainy or overprocessed and plastic because of noise reduction and you've avoided them both even though it likely made this shot a lot more difficult to nail like you did.

I think people can take a lesson in composure from this image, the subject is in the lower right third, the art frames him in and occupies the other 2/3rds of the frame, and the light makes sure we don't get too distracted looking at the artwork. I'd give it a 4.5 out of 5 maybe even a 4.75 out of 5!

SLC

[qtpie36963]

I thought I'd add one of mine! I like looking at everyone's and seeing what people have to say, I'd appreciate feedback as well!! Thanks Guys!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2273/2247132498_c56fcab601_b.jpg

Nikon D40
Shutter 1/80
F/9
ISO 200
48mm

[pdxflint]

I'm not a huge fan of the lighting. The glare from the outside is a bit distracting. Plus, what is this photo supposed to be about? The guy at the desk? The symmetry of the bookshelves? I just don't take a lot from it.

Yeah, the lighting was problematic, with a bright day outside, and varied fluorescent and incandescent lighting inside. The photo is part of a series of pictures which describe a sense of place. The person sitting there isn't the subject, necessarily - it's more like something you would see if you were exploring the nooks and crannies of the place. I appreciate your comments a lot. Thanks.



Pdxflint: I think I get the story you are trying to tell, but it isn't quite there - the lighting is very distracting (especially the glare off the books). I think it could have been a great shot if it had been from a different angle (maybe more down looking up) and if the sun had cooperated more.



Thanks for the feedback. One version had the outside nicely exposed, but most everything inside virtually sillouetted, and the glare was still there (shiny covers, etc. hard to expose for without vastly underexposing the rest, oh well, some you win, some you lose...;) I probably should have gotten lower, or just forgot about the shot - that's what feedback is for. :)

[gamerz]

Critique please :D

Just a picture of some birds while backpacking through the Strathcona Provincial Park. Taken with a Sony Cybershot.

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd234/gamerz9/DSC01020.jpg?t=1202328084

[pdxflint]

I like this photo because it is something that I can critique much further than I thought once I looked at it for a while. I give it a 2.5-3/5. The image attempts for symmetry but it's not quite there with the ladder and the off center angle. It's got some great color in the wood of the bookshelves, a tad bit on the yellow side but that's what you get with the mixed lighting and the wood.

The part that is the big let down is the guy on the end. I don't mean to be harsh, he just isn't interesting and the blown highlights are really making his boredom pop out.

- Lower angle, get on your knees.
- It's okay to move things if you aren't shooting journalistically so get that ladder out of the way next time
- Get closer to your subject, the guy I assume, and put more of those elements like his book bag, the papers, and his books into the scene to really give that "I am studying feel"
- Expose for the highlights. That guy may have to have been silhouetted and the bookshelves under exposed to get the guy as the center of focus. Then you could have gotten the shelves back in post which is perfectly fine both artistically and journalistically.

Good photo though, those are the images that you grow from and that show that the photog has an eye that is dying to be trained.


Thanks DS. Lots of great points, for sure. I can't say I put a lot of thought into the shot, but was more seeking images that might convey a sense of being in this place (more the subject than the guy.) It is more of a photojournalism shot (in fact most of mine are from that philosophical bent...) so moving things, arranging them was out of the question. Getting lower would have been okay... I'm not sure if you're saying the shot would have been better without the guy?? or if I concentrated on the guy's "story." I was more trying to capture the essence of what being in Powells on a Sunday morning is like, where it is like Portland's living room/den, etc. The particular room the shot was taken in also has a coffee shop and most of the patrons were reading the paper, magazines, books or playing chess, etc... I think as a part of a series this shot may have had some merit, but standing on its own just as a picture, it has clearly not worked. Thanks. I've really enjoyed the feedback from everyone on the picture. :)

To be fair:

Nikon D2hs
f/2.8
ISO400
34 mm
1/160

Background: NABJ shootout contest. Theme: African American influence on Las Vegas.

Caption: (if you want to be a journalist, this is the most important part of your image, I learned the hard way while I was in school.) Phil Ellis is an air brush artist that originally hails from Tampa Bay Florida, but left a managerial position and moved to Las Vegas four months ago to open his own air brushing business. Ellis expresses his love for Las Vegas in his artwork and says that the cities nice friends, nice work, and nice customers keep him going throughout his workday. He also says that the driving force behind his business, titled Fresh Made Inc., is his strong faith in God and his self taught abilities.
Very nice. Watch the spelling in the cutline (cities should be city's.) I especially like the limited depth of field (nice to have good glass... ;) ) Since you were there taking shots of this guy, presumably more than one shot, I would have preferred one with him actually wielding his airbrush or doing something. This shot's composition is excellent, but the subject is just standing there with his head down...and without your caption I might have mistaken him for someone just looking at the artwork. It wouldn't have been a bad idea to also do an environmental portrait of him, that is, turn him more toward the camera, maybe even acknowledging the camera by looking into it. I'd like to see his eyes, and get to know him better. Otherwise, technically and compositionally excellent. 3.75-4.0

[pdxflint]

Concert photo taken w/
Nikon d80
Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D
f/1.4
Shutter: 1/20
ISO: 800

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2014/2246137390_c97ccd3dc3_o.jpg

I have to admit, concert shots are difficult... in this one the chair distracts me. With the angle you had and the pose of the singer, this might have made a better sillhoutte shot, in combination with other pictures as a series. As it is, it just seems a wee-bit flat. To me, this shot is about body language and emotion, which would have worked well in higher-contrast (like the old jazz black and white shots.) I like the backlighting spotlight effect, and you captured that essense really well. What looks a bit odd the more I look at the shot, is how low his mic is, making him look like he's deep-throating the mic, ... but that's not your fault. That's one thing I liked about the old 35mm contact sheets, where I could look over the rest of the shots and suggest one or several others that you might have overlooked. 3.5

Later: As a follow up, I did a quick crop, and minor color tweak. I don't know if it improved it or not, but I like this crop... hope you don't mind. :) Another way would have been to keep the spotlight by going more vertical...

http://lh3.google.com/pdxflint/R6ohxlRGIfI/AAAAAAAAEDk/cRVrzYHXGbw/s400/2246137390_c97ccd3dc3_o.jpg

[Everythingisnt]

Critique please :D

Just a picture of some birds while backpacking through the Strathcona Provincial Park. Taken with a Sony Cybershot.

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd234/gamerz9/DSC01020.jpg?t=1202328084

I really like this shot! Very clear, a nice angle, interesting subjects.. I think that you have a really nice shot there..

[qtpie36963]

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd234/gamerz9/DSC01020.jpg?t=1202328084

I really like the composition of this photo. I find it most interesting because the branch (which is what catches my eye) is off center and I think it's an interesting relationship between positive and negative space...

Over all, I give it a 3.7/5

[OCBC]

here's one i took this summer one early morning in utah. it was an awesome experience. probably 30 hummingbirds going after this one feeder, diving in for a fleeting sip. i got in within a foot and they couldn't care less. their buzz was so loud it sounded like a car engine.

Nikon D50
RAW
ISO 200
55mm
f5.6
1/1000 sec

[TimJim]

OCBC: 4/5. Lighting is great and hummingbirds are sweet.

Nice shot.

[qtpie36963]

here's one i took this summer one early morning in utah. it was an awesome experience. probably 30 hummingbirds going after this one feeder, diving in for a fleeting sip. i got in within a foot and they couldn't care less. their buzz was so loud it sounded like a car engine.

Nikon D50
RAW
ISO 200
55mm
f5.6
1/1000 sec

I find this photo very interesting. You have quite an eye for composition. I love the fact that even at 1/1000 of a second the birds wings are still blurry! They are so fast! You've got a nice eye... I like the way the other birds that are out of focus break up the big chunk of sky!! I give it a 5/5!!! YAY!!

[gamerz]

I really like this shot! Very clear, a nice angle, interesting subjects.. I think that you have a really nice shot there..

I really like the composition of this photo. I find it most interesting because the branch (which is what catches my eye) is off center and I think it's an interesting relationship between positive and negative space...

Over all, I give it a 3.7/5

Thanks alot!

Heres another of mine.

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd234/gamerz9/DSC00951.jpg

[fett]

Sorry I don't have anytime today to do an critique's but I'm going to put a landscape in. Interested to hear what everyone things.

Edit: I wanted to say thanks to everyone who has posted photos or offered their opinions. I've already learned a lot just from reading critique's on others photos. Thanks

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2208/2247905956_88456f63ed.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2247905956/)

[pdxflint]

Critique please :D

Just a picture of some birds while backpacking through the Strathcona Provincial Park. Taken with a Sony Cybershot.

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd234/gamerz9/DSC01020.jpg?t=1202328084

I liked this one a lot when I first saw it several months ago in a pic of the day thread. I love the symmetry of the two birds, how they definitely appear linked, maybe they're mates. I can almost see them twitching. Only thing better would have been if the lower bird wasn't cut off, but it's a sweet shot anyway. 3.75

here's one i took this summer one early morning in utah. it was an awesome experience. probably 30 hummingbirds going after this one feeder, diving in for a fleeting sip. i got in within a foot and they couldn't care less. their buzz was so loud it sounded like a car engine.

Nikon D50
RAW
ISO 200
55mm
f5.6
1/1000 sec

Amazing hummingbird shot. Since very few shots would rate a 5 in my book (like a 10 in olympic gymnastics... have to have room for perfection...;) ) I'll call it a 4.25. It came together well, and you were prepared to meet the opportunity.

Sorry I don't have anytime today to do an critique's but I'm going to put a landscape in. Interested to hear what everyone things.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2208/2247905956_88456f63ed.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2247905956/)

I like this a lot. I can see it as a fine art selenium toned print. It looks like black/white film with a orange/red filter. Only criticism is I'd slightly (very, very slightly) bring up the shadow detail. Otherwise, nice composition, nice exposure, good sharpness and detail.

[pdxflint]

Another one offered up for critique. I was on foot for a day in Mazatlan, Mexico, with only a tiny 35mm film fixed lens (35mm f/2.8) AF P/S (Konica Big Mini.) I didn't want to draw attention to myself, and this is a quiet little camera. The boats are small pangas, (fishing boats) which are launched off the beach near the old town. Most fishermen had come in for the day, as it was late.

http://lh4.google.com/pdxflint/R0gXnVpa-mI/AAAAAAAADlU/Vs2nLqC1T0U/s800/fishingboats.jpg

Fuji Super G 400 film
no other exif

[fett]

To be fair:

Nikon D2hs
f/2.8
ISO400
34 mm
1/160

Background: NABJ shootout contest. Theme: African American influence on Las Vegas.

Caption: (if you want to be a journalist, this is the most important part of your image, I learned the hard way while I was in school.) Phil Ellis is an air brush artist that originally hails from Tampa Bay Florida, but left a managerial position and moved to Las Vegas four months ago to open his own air brushing business. Ellis expresses his love for Las Vegas in his artwork and says that the cities nice friends, nice work, and nice customers keep him going throughout his workday. He also says that the driving force behind his business, titled Fresh Made Inc., is his strong faith in God and his self taught abilities.

DS: 4/5 - I like this photo and think it is a great example of photojournalism. I like that the lines created from the artwork and doorway all point to the artist. The light from his work lamp also work to further bring the focus to the artist as I find my eye is pulled towards the brighter parts of the image. With that I come to my only negative, I find that light coming in from the door also fights for my attention. I know with photojournalism you don't really get the chance to setup the shot but I think if this was taken later a night it would have been even better.

Another one offered up for critique. I was on foot for a day in Mazatlan, Mexico, with only a tiny 35mm film fixed lens (35mm f/2.8) AF P/S (Konica Big Mini.) I didn't want to draw attention to myself, and this is a quiet little camera. The boats are small pangas, (fishing boats) which are launched off the beach near the old town. Most fishermen had come in for the day, as it was late.

http://lh4.google.com/pdxflint/R0gXnVpa-mI/AAAAAAAADlU/Vs2nLqC1T0U/s800/fishingboats.jpg

Fuji Super G 400 film
no other exif

Pdxflint: I really like the crop you did on the concert shot.

3.5/5 - I'm having a hard time with this picture. At first glance it looks like it should be really interesting. It seems to me that something is off but I can't put my finger on it. I like the boats and the curve of the beach, maybe that's what it is, my eyes seem to follow the curve and it leads me out of the photo. Maybe a different position closer to the beach would've improve it or it could just be me. I would be interested in what others get from it.

[Digital Skunk]

Thanks for the critique everyone. I do consider this one of my favorite pieces because it was a seat of your pants kind of shoot. Never been to Las Vegas and had to grab this shot from some neighborhood I had never been in.

Yes. It was part of a story so there are other images in the bunch that show him with his brush and shirts etc.

You hit it right on the nose PDXFLINT. The judges said the same exact thing. The image is pretty much useless without the caption, and even with the caption it didn't add much of anything to the story, so they scraped it and moved on. Of the other 4 images they liked about two of them, but they weren't enough to hold the story together.

I learned a very important lesson about photos stories during that comp. It's not the best images that make a good story, it's how good those images are and how they tell the story... how they flow together and through what is being conveyed.

Gotta love journalism!

[fett]

How is everyone liking the thread so far? Personally I like it, I'm learning a lot.

I did this one for my photo a day project. I wanted to go with something that tells a story more than my usually photos.

HEADACHE.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2133/2249555946_abffd9bde4.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2249555946/)

[OCBC]

I find this photo very interesting. You have quite an eye for composition. I love the fact that even at 1/1000 of a second the birds wings are still blurry! They are so fast! You've got a nice eye... I like the way the other birds that are out of focus break up the big chunk of sky!! I give it a 5/5!!! YAY!!

Thank you so much qtpie, and everyone else who offered comments on my photo. This really was a case of being there at the right time. As someone who is fairly new to photography and thinking desperately in my final term of undergraduate what I might do to make a career out of it, your encouragement means alot.

[OCBC]

Another one offered up for critique. I was on foot for a day in Mazatlan, Mexico, with only a tiny 35mm film fixed lens (35mm f/2.8) AF P/S (Konica Big Mini.) I didn't want to draw attention to myself, and this is a quiet little camera. The boats are small pangas, (fishing boats) which are launched off the beach near the old town. Most fishermen had come in for the day, as it was late.

http://lh4.google.com/pdxflint/R0gXnVpa-mI/AAAAAAAADlU/Vs2nLqC1T0U/s800/fishingboats.jpg

Fuji Super G 400 film
no other exif

pdxflint, I really like this shot. The lighting, colors, and contrast are all wonderful. The curve of the beach and wall is a really interesting and strong line, and the staggered arrangement of the boats leads the eye back in an interesting way. the only sticking point that I find with this photo is that my eye keeps drawing back to the brightly lit building near the center of the frame, (i'm assuming it's not your intended subject) mostly likely because the yellow of the building contrasts with the blue of the sky and the cooler cast on the boats and beach.

overall though, a very nice shot. 3.75/5

[pdxflint]

I thought I'd add one of mine! I like looking at everyone's and seeing what people have to say, I'd appreciate feedback as well!! Thanks Guys!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2273/2247132498_c56fcab601_b.jpg

Nikon D40
Shutter 1/80
F/9
ISO 200
48mm

This has been a hard one, (I noticed nobody else has tackled it yet...) because even though it's a photograph of what appears to be the inside of a children's playground apparatus (tunnel, thingamajig... ;)) it represents itself to me more as piece of abstract art, with the swirly, lines and bold color spectrum. So... what I like - the composition, shapes, spiral lines suggest movement, and colors. What I don't like - the lines lead the eye to a bright, overexposed bright dead-end.... a non-descript view through some pale bars - a virtual "white hole." That's a letdown, and actually takes away from the wonderful potential of the interior of this structure. 2.5 (with potential)

Maybe try this again at a different time of day, with some golden light entering the tunnel from late afternoon sun, or after sunset with light still in the sky. Try it with and without kids.. just experiment some more... :)

[Joe Bannon]

I took this last week so I could use it for my iTouch.

[pdxflint]

pdxflint, I really like this shot. The lighting, colors, and contrast are all wonderful. The curve of the beach and wall is a really interesting and strong line, and the staggered arrangement of the boats leads the eye back in an interesting way. the only sticking point that I find with this photo is that my eye keeps drawing back to the brightly lit building near the center of the frame, (i'm assuming it's not your intended subject) mostly likely because the yellow of the building contrasts with the blue of the sky and the cooler cast on the boats and beach.

overall though, a very nice shot. 3.75/5

Thanks OCBC. I really liked the curve of the beach/wall too, and the colors that time of day, especially. No, the building in the center wasn't my subject, it was just part of the scene. It was not only yellowish in color, it was lit up by the last rays of the sun, but I'm not sure it really hurts the shot. At least that's what was there...

Now, another contribution for critique: This one I saw as I shot it, but I don't think I really did it justice since I had to react quickly, and it made for a hasty exposure. I saw a possibility of an optical illusion, like this kid was walking across a sand bridge. What do you all think?

http://lh3.google.com/pdxflint/RtYHUShzalI/AAAAAAAACCc/_pvnzjXgg4w/s800/DSC_5389.JPG

Model: NIKON D50
Exposure: 1/500 sec
Aperture: f/9.0
Focal Length: 40mm

[teleromeo]

Later: As a follow up, I did a quick crop, and minor color tweak. I don't know if it improved it or not, but I like this crop... hope you don't mind. :) Another way would have been to keep the spotlight by going more vertical...

I prefer the original photo over the crop you made ...
All the 'rubbish' that surrounds the musician gives it a dramatic effect. I can hear the music and the ambiance of the public.

[Digital Skunk]

I prefer the original photo over the crop you made ...
All the 'rubbish' that surrounds the musician gives it a dramatic effect. I can hear the music and the ambiance of the public.

I would always say that a major part of a good photos is the details of what your capturing, and it's true for just about every photo that is taken. What is a flower without the grass, or the leaves surrounding it? What is a photo of the human body without the details of the body that make that particular one beautiful? Many images get cut out during the editing process or many photo contests because of the details, even mine (the one of the airbrusher had four images taken out because of a few missing KEY features, namely, where his shop was)

The image of the rocker is a good one, but as i said before you need the feeling of the music the guy is singing. The shot with the audience:

102182

Is not too distracting, but that chair in the back is VERY unnecessary. The audience is welcome but the chair has to go. If the photog wanted a square image that would work, but with keeping the aspect ratio the same he would have to loose much of the audience and the chair itself, shaving off the singer's legs as well.

This image:

102181

Is a better edit, not because of the missing chair, but because it puts your concentration on the singer and nothing else. The mood and environment are still there, and still a bit obscure, but it's definitely not cluttered with chairs, background images, audience members staring off into the distance, etc.

The tone is welcomed improvement as well. The only thing missing the genre of music.

[appie57]

Another one offered up for critique. I was on foot for a day in Mazatlan, Mexico, with only a tiny 35mm film fixed lens (35mm f/2.8) AF P/S (Konica Big Mini.) I didn't want to draw attention to myself, and this is a quiet little camera. The boats are small pangas, (fishing boats) which are launched off the beach near the old town. Most fishermen had come in for the day, as it was late.

http://lh4.google.com/pdxflint/R0gXnVpa-mI/AAAAAAAADlU/Vs2nLqC1T0U/s800/fishingboats.jpg

Fuji Super G 400 film
no other exif

Nice pic pdxflint! I like the light, the late afternoon atmosphere along the beach is well conveyed in this image. I would have preferred some more human activity in the front, but that wasn't there apparently.

[pdxflint]

I prefer the original photo over the crop you made ...
All the 'rubbish' that surrounds the musician gives it a dramatic effect. I can hear the music and the ambiance of the public.



This image: <edit: cropped version>

Is a better edit, not because of the missing chair, but because it puts your concentration on the singer and nothing else. The mood and environment are still there, and still a bit obscure, but it's definitely not cluttered with chairs, background images, audience members staring off into the distance, etc.

The tone is welcomed improvement as well. The only thing missing the genre of music.

Even though this thread isn't as active as the daily pic thread, it's certainly as educational. Thanks guys for your comments on an interesting subject - photo editing. I know a lot of folks here want to (and do with great regularity, I should add..) make images that appeal to others in some way. But, another twist on this endeavor is, what is the intended market, publication or client? What is the purpose of the photograph. Is it telling a story (news, sports, documentary, advertising?) Is it a piece of beautiful art for display? Is it for sale, or done on commission? Is it personal? These are things that are worth discussing for anyone who might be thinking of a career in photography. Digital Skunk's photojournalism approach, for example, with his eye and keen ability to explain his thinking in the editing process is something any budding news or sports photographer should eat up. There are other voices, also with their areas of expertise in terms of creating their style of art. This thread, hopefully, will be a good, and safe place to be exposed to the kind of constructive criticism a teacher, or photo editor might hand out. If it can build enough momentum, it could be worth it's weight in free photo classes! :)

Nice pic pdxflint! I like the light, the late afternoon atmosphere along the beach is well conveyed in this image. I would have preferred some more human activity in the front, but that wasn't there apparently.

I agree with you on this. If I had gotten there just a bit earlier I might have seen more activity right there. Another thing I could have done was get down on the beach and wander around a bit more looking for people finishing up their daily fishing activities, but I chose to move on. I think I saw the composition of the boats, the color and light, and just reacted in the moment. That's why I'm still not sure if it succeeds on its own. I do like it, though, which in the end justifies it for me. I appreciate your feedback.

[skiesforme]

http://gallery.mac.com/skiesforme/100016/DSC00017/web.jpg
Untouched / Unaltered
Sony Cybershot T-7

[Digital Skunk]

Even though this thread isn't as active as the daily pic thread, it's certainly as educational. Thanks guys for your comments on an interesting subject - photo editing. I know a lot of folks here want to (and do with great regularity, I should add..) make images that appeal to others in some way. But, another twist on this endeavor is, what is the intended market, publication or client? What is the purpose of the photograph. Is it telling a story (news, sports, documentary, advertising?) Is it a piece of beautiful art for display? Is it for sale, or done on commission? Is it personal? These are things that are worth discussing for anyone who might be thinking of a career in photography. Digital Skunk's photojournalism approach, for example, with his eye and keen ability to explain his thinking in the editing process is something any budding news or sports photographer should eat up. There are other voices, also with their areas of expertise in terms of creating their style of art. This thread, hopefully, will be a good, and safe place to be exposed to the kind of constructive criticism a teacher, or photo editor might hand out. If it can build enough momentum, it could be worth it's weight in free photo classes! :)

Amen, enough said. I hope that this does catch on and that people share their opinions and their theories on how to edit a photo. It can be a great tool for learning for anyone that sets goals for their photography.

[fett]

Well said pdxflint!

I'm interested to hear what people think of this one. So far people seem to like it but it doesn't really grab me the same. To me it's just an average photo with HDR processing. If you like it (it's ok if you don't and you can say why) what is it that you like. Is it the HDR processing that makes it different, the mood created by the lighting or something else.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2001/2256571286_024220ab70.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2256571286/)

[pdxflint]

Well said pdxflint!

I'm interested to hear what people think of this one. So far people seem to like it but it doesn't really grab me the same. To me it's just an average photo with HDR processing. If you like it (it's ok if you don't and you can say why) what is it that you like. Is it the HDR processing that makes it different, the mood created by the lighting or something else.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2001/2256571286_024220ab70.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinloganphoto/2256571286/)

It's not that easy to critique, since I don't know what your intent was, but I'll give it a go... I think it's a very pleasing shot to the eye, by that I mean it looks exposed well, the colors are interesting and it's composed well. Technically, I can't really fault it. Subjectwise, it looks like something I'd expect to see in some real estate related publication, or a magazine article about neighborhoods or real estate. If you had a Christmas tree in the foreground, or ornamental lights in the front yards or on the houses, it could be a Christmas card shot. All in all, it's a well-executed photograph, but seems to lack any purpose or soul without some kind of explanation or "caption." Where is it? Why do these ordinary houses matter, so that I should look at them for more than just a passing moment? I don't have anything to connect with it, with what you've given us. For example, most people (other than on this forum) wouldn't even know it was HDR post-processed, and even if they did, it wouldn't mean anything to them. But, if you're demonstrating HDR to a narrowly focused audience, the shot would have much more meaning just for the processing procedures. In that case, I'd be more inclined to judge the photo accordingly. So... in the end it all depends on what you're trying to accomplish in order to determine how well you've pulled it off. So, I'll arbitrarily "rate" it twice: HDR technique - 4.5 ; general interest - 2.5. I think you hit it on the head with your own assessment. :)

[pdxflint]

Maybe we can start a discussion with this one. These two shots were taken a number of years ago in Portland, OR when leaders of the Pacific Rim countries were attending an economic conference at Portland State. As the conference wound down, President Clinton emerged and addressed a large crowd that had been waiting for several hours in the South Park Blocks on campus. Lots of speech shots were taken, but one of the president's favorite things to do after these kinds of events was to walk the rope line pressing the flesh with the crowd. That's obviously the activity in both of these pictures, which were shot from the exact spot on the podium where minutes earlier Clinton had delivered his speech. These photos were both under consideration for the front page of the university daily paper, and ultimately it became my job to decide which to use. Think about which one you'd choose, and why? Have fun! ;)

Note: both are scans from old work prints...

No. 1

http://lh5.google.com/pdxflint/RvAMPrWiZ1I/AAAAAAAACbE/NfzHZmJaKDY/s800/clinton%2C%20boy%20scouts_1.jpg

No. 2

http://lh6.google.com/pdxflint/RvAMM7WiZ0I/AAAAAAAACa8/atxolc9Vqpg/s800/clinton%2C%20psu%20crowd_1.jpg

[Doylem]

Now, another contribution for critique: This one I saw as I shot it, but I don't think I really did it justice since I had to react quickly, and it made for a hasty exposure. I saw a possibility of an optical illusion, like this kid was walking across a sand bridge. What do you all think?

http://lh3.google.com/pdxflint/RtYHUShzalI/AAAAAAAACCc/_pvnzjXgg4w/s800/DSC_5389.JPG

Nothing wrong with the idea; the 'possibility' was there. But, well, it didn't come off this time. The kid looks like he's been shot in the back of the head by a rather chunky arrow, making him slump forward... and the light is dull and unrevealing.

[pdxflint]

Nothing wrong with the idea; the 'possibility' was there. But, well, it didn't come off this time. The kid looks like he's been shot in the back of the head by a rather chunky arrow, making him slump forward... and the light is dull and unrevealing.

Well, Doylem, you don't miss a thing, mate! Your comment made me laugh out loud, so at least the picture was worth something before meeting it's digital demise... :D As they say in photography and fishing, you should have seen the one that got away...!

[Digital Skunk]

No. 1

Now I hope that the paper took this shot mainly because you can see who is at the event.

No. 2

This shot is decent as a jump photo, but I wouldn't put this on the front page of the paper. The main thing this says to me is the guy that is focused in the shot is some hotshot guy, and the back of that guy's head is in the way.

I would have gone with the first shot for the front page, and probably picked a different shot to go with the jump.

[Doylem]

Well, Doylem, you don't miss a thing, mate! Your comment made me laugh out loud, so at least the picture was worth something before meeting it's digital demise... :D As they say in photography and fishing, you should have seen the one that got away...!

Glad to bring a little laughter into this gloomy world. When we ask ourselves "Does this picture work... or doesn't it?", we generally know the answer already (hint: it's not "yes" ;))...

This is a shot I like (partly 'cos it's one of the first shots I took when I 'went digital'). But... there's a rock behind the horse. Now, I know it's a rock, but somehow all I ever think is "pile of horse crap"... so I think I'm going to have to use my (negligable) skills with PhotoShop to get rid of it. Once you see a pic in a certain way, it can be hard to see it any other way. :)

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/337/horseonbeach1lb8.jpg

[fett]

pdxflint - I think your ratings are right on the money. The purpose was to capture the clouds because I thought they would be perfect for HDR. I framed the lights to give the photo an interest point for the viewers to start at. If it wasn't for the hdr processing I did this photo probably would have ended up in my archives never to be seen again. That's why I posted it here because on flickr it is one of my most popular photos and I wanted to see if I was missing something. Although I do think I'm going to try and sell it to the home builder as it might work good in a brochure for the community.

For your two Clinton photos I would have gone with #1 for the same reasons as DS and I like the kid giving the thumbs up. You put this photo beside the story and I would know exactly what is going one in it without a caption.



http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/337/horseonbeach1lb8.jpg

Doylem I'm glad you decided to participate in the critique thread. It was your straight to the point critiques that gave me the idea.

Now I'll give your photo a try. I can see why you like this photo. I really like the silhouette of the horse and man. It's simple and yet a powerful image. As you already pointed out the rocks behind the horse do kind of look like horse crap and I also find the rocks in the foreground don't add to the image. If it was me I would probably have cropped them out bringing the horse/man down lower in the image.

[Doylem]

Doylem I'm glad you decided to participate in the critique thread. It was your straight to the point critiques that gave me the idea.

Now I'll give your photo a try. I can see why you like this photo. I really like the silhouette of the horse and man. It's simple and yet a powerful image. As you already pointed out the rocks behind the horse do kind of look like horse crap and I also find the rocks in the foreground don't add to the image. If it was me I would probably have cropped them out bringing the horse/man down lower in the image.

Erm... my "straight to the point critiques" haven't won me a lot of friends lately... but they're only ever opinions... only ever a point of view...

That day was amazing, about a year ago. I was enjoying the weather, the light and my brand new D200 camera. The woman was exercising her horse on the beach, so I got a few shots. This was the one that got all the legs 'in synch': small woman, big horse, in perfect harmony. It was a special moment.

But, of course, you have to divorce the memories of the moment from the picture itself. You can try to sort out the faults in a pic... or just accept that that's how it was...

This is a possible crop (though the crap's still there)... :)

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/2231/horseandwoman1vb3.jpg

[fett]

Hope you don't mind, I removed the crap to see how it would look. I have already deleted the image from my computer.

EDIT: I redid it to remove all of the rocks from the water.

[Doylem]

Hope you don't mind, I removed the crap to see how it would look. I have already deleted the image from my computer.

EDIT: I redid it to remove all of the rocks from the water.

That looks great! I like to simplify, whenever possible: one subject, one mood, restricted range of colours, etc. And you've just focused down to what's essential... which is what I'm trying to do every time I click the shutter.

It's a learning curve, for sure. I don't want to 'unlearn' the stuff about light, 'cos that's my motivation in photography. But I'm amazed at what's possible in PP. I'll be upgrading my Aperture 1.5 to 2.0, and hope to become a little more computer-savvy (still prefer to be outdoors, though...). :)

[pdxflint]

Fett - your PS editing does the trick. Looks good and clean.

Doylem - I also liked the original, and for the life of me, I didn't see horsecrap when I looked at it.. It was clear that the object(s,) while on the same plane, were on a different line than the horse. I can see the depth in the photo well enough so my eye doesn't trick me into thinking that the horse deposited that object.. and finally, those suspicious objects much more closely resemble things that would originate in cows than horses (speaking from my own personal scatalogical experience, of course. :D)

[otter]

Hope you don't mind, I removed the crap to see how it would look. I have already deleted the image from my computer.

EDIT: I redid it to remove all of the rocks from the water.

I think this looks good although the rocks scattered in the background didn't really bother me much. If I were to redo this, I'd maybe crop a bit more off the right side. The horse being dead center horizontally really bugs me. I know the person on the right helps to off center it a bit but it's not enough. If the person were leading the horse and the person in the center, then this crop would work ok. Just my thoughts...

[fett]

On the first edit I only removed the rock directly behind the horse but then thought if we are going to be editing why not remove all the rocks so there is nothing left to compete for the attention of the viewer.

I don't mind the horse in the middle, I think there is enough room to the left so it doesn't appear to be walking off frame.

[alecmcmahon]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2022/2258968165_bd83f3e5b0_o.jpg


messing around with some post process.

d80,18-135

white umbrella with sb-600 to camera left.

[BOOSTD]

alecmcmahon-

I really like this picture. I think her expression is great and really evokes emotion. I do, however have to suggestions / questions:
1) Is it possible to sharpen her hair a little bit? I think her bangs look great, but they would really pop if they were a little more well defined (although I know thats not the focus of your photo).

2) What is that line of light thats running down the edge of her jaw? Im not sure if it was intentional, but I think it distracts from her face. Perhaps you can remove it?

I have posted on of my pictures for critique. Let me know what you think!!

[alecmcmahon]

alecmcmahon-

I really like this picture. I think her expression is great and really evokes emotion. I do, however have to suggestions / questions:
1) Is it possible to sharpen her hair a little bit? I think her bangs look great, but they would really pop if they were a little more well defined (although I know thats not the focus of your photo).

2) What is that line of light thats running down the edge of her jaw? Im not sure if it was intentional, but I think it distracts from her face. Perhaps you can remove it?

I have posted on of my pictures for critique. Let me know what you think!!


thanks for the comments man.


i think i can go back and do some layering and put more detail in the hair... & the line on the jaw is just from being heavly over processed, didnt notice it @ time of export.

thanks again

[qtpie36963]

Maybe try this again at a different time of day, with some golden light entering the tunnel from late afternoon sun, or after sunset with light still in the sky. Try it with and without kids.. just experiment some more... :)


Thanks for the feedback! That's the one thing I didn't enjoy about it as well... I have a couple other attempts at it.. or maybe I can go into photoshop and work with it to make it even better. Something realistic... Thanks again!

[qtpie36963]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2283/2247132502_a2f72b3a27_b.jpg

Experimenting in the rain late one night outside my house.

Nikon D40
Shutter 5 seconds
f/5.0
ISO 400
38mm

[qtpie36963]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2022/2258968165_bd83f3e5b0_o.jpg


I really just love the color combination. The blue really makes the Red pop and vice versa. Then the blue in the hair really unifies the whole picture? Was that a reflection or is their really blue in her hair? Even though the colors are really striking I can't keep from looking at her eyes. They are very captivating and seem to tell a story. The one thing I'm not fond of is the necklace showing... once I noticed it, I kept looking at the reflection off it....I give it 4/5

[66217]

Nice photo qtpie36963. I like how the light comes from the left.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Took it from my room last day.


http://aycu20.webshots.com/image/43339/2004044959182107098_rs.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2004044959182107098)

Nikon D40x
Nikkor 80-200mm

[BOOSTD]

So does my picture suck so badly that nobody wanted to comment / critique?

[Whorehay]

I have posted on of my pictures for critique. Let me know what you think!!

I'm guessing this is a picture on an escalator? It has nice bokeh, but my opinion is that there's nothing really to focus on. I suppose that woman is in "focus" but my eyes are distracted by all the other heads and bodies in the picture. My eyes hunt for lines to follow.

When you're in a mass of people and you want to convey that mass you should go WA or UWA. There are a number of heads and bodies but not enough for the effect you are going for. I was at the NY Giants' parade and it was crowded from ground level, but when you took pictures it didn't seem *that* crowded. But when you have people taking pictures from the 10th floor of the WaMu building across from City Hall, it looks like a whole heck of a lot more people. It's all about perspective.

I'm going to go on a whim and say you were going for kinda the stairway to heaven feel? If you want to go telephoto to isolate, I think a more powerful way would be to have only one subject rather than a bunch cluttering the frame. Otherwise, I'd go WA and find some lines so our attention is "drawn in" toward the light.

[BOOSTD]

I'm guessing...

Thanks for the constructive criticism Whorehay! Ya, now that I look at it with your critique, I see what you mean. I was trying to make her sand out (and her bag) from the crowd by blurring everyone else as much as I could. In fact, I used the widest aperture (f1.8). I agree, WA would have been much better but unfortunately I only owned a Canon 85mm lens at the time. My question now is, in a crowd of people, using wide angle, how do you selectively make one person stick out from the crowd? Is it possible to take a candid where one person is obviously the focus even though he / she is surrounded by others?

Thanks again for the critique!!

BOOSTD

[BOOSTD]

Nice photo qtpie36963. I like how the light comes from the left.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Took it from my room last day.


http://aycu20.webshots.com/image/43339/2004044959182107098_rs.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2004044959182107098)

Nikon D40x
Nikkor 80-200mm


Roco, I like this picture, but unfortunately the out of focus limb and leaf (bottom right and bottom left, respectively) are somewhat distracting.

Aside from that, I think its a fairly good photo!

happy shooting!

BOOSTD

[BOOSTD]

Hope you don't mind, I removed the crap to see how it would look. I have already deleted the image from my computer.

EDIT: I redid it to remove all of the rocks from the water.

(Trying to contribute to the thread as best I can)

Fett, I REALLY like this picture. I think the silhouette is great and the lake bed, snow, field (idk what it is exactly) makes for a very interesting background. However, I think the sky leaves something to be desired. If you cut out the bottom half with the guy and the horse and just look at the sky, you see... well, gray. Perhaps a shorter crop would minimize this dead space and keep the focus on the guy and his horse.

BOOSTD

[pdxflint]

A couple of long-time neighborhood regulars at an old downtown Portland bar which would soon be closing its doors for good to make way for a fast food joint. I shot it from the far corner of the bar with a bit of fill flash, converted to grayscale.

http://lh4.google.com/pdxflint/R7WBUNkKNTI/AAAAAAAAESg/VuRZfa9EcHw/s800/SCN0023.jpg

Canon Eos 630
ISO 100
Canon 100-300
Kodak Gold 100

[Whorehay]

Thanks for the constructive criticism Whorehay! Ya, now that I look at it with your critique, I see what you mean. I was trying to make her sand out (and her bag) from the crowd by blurring everyone else as much as I could. In fact, I used the widest aperture (f1.8). I agree, WA would have been much better but unfortunately I only owned a Canon 85mm lens at the time. My question now is, in a crowd of people, using wide angle, how do you selectively make one person stick out from the crowd? Is it possible to take a candid where one person is obviously the focus even though he / she is surrounded by others?

Thanks again for the critique!!

BOOSTD

If you really want to have selective focus, WA is probably not the way to go. You'd have to get pretty close to your subject and use a wide aperture which those pesky WA lenses don't often come in unless you are willing to pay. It can happen if you're close enough though. Go and experiment if you have one.

It's hard to say on an escalator since I've never tried something like that with art in mind. Just work with what you have and try and find some lines we can follow (the rails on the escalator?).

[SLC Flyfishing]

Here's mine, I've never shot anything like this before so let me know how I did!

SLC

[pdxflint]

Here's mine, I've never shot anything like this before so let me know how I did!

SLC

You did good! I love the colors, composition and overall smooth tonal qualities/textures. It would make a great desktop background.

[SLC Flyfishing]

Thanks pdxflint! I was happy with the way the bokeh rendered the water in front and behind the bubble, I actually thought "desktop background" when I saw the first few on the LCD

SLC

[dothevampire]

Maybe we can start a discussion with this one. These two shots were taken a number of years ago in Portland, OR when leaders of the Pacific Rim countries were attending an economic conference at Portland State. As the conference wound down, President Clinton emerged and addressed a large crowd that had been waiting for several hours in the South Park Blocks on campus. Lots of speech shots were taken, but one of the president's favorite things to do after these kinds of events was to walk the rope line pressing the flesh with the crowd. That's obviously the activity in both of these pictures, which were shot from the exact spot on the podium where minutes earlier Clinton had delivered his speech. These photos were both under consideration for the front page of the university daily paper, and ultimately it became my job to decide which to use. Think about which one you'd choose, and why? Have fun! ;)

Note: both are scans from old work prints...

No. 1

http://lh5.google.com/pdxflint/RvAMPrWiZ1I/AAAAAAAACbE/NfzHZmJaKDY/s800/clinton%2C%20boy%20scouts_1.jpg

No. 2

http://lh6.google.com/pdxflint/RvAMM7WiZ0I/AAAAAAAACa8/atxolc9Vqpg/s800/clinton%2C%20psu%20crowd_1.jpg

In the first photo the subject larger than life and the expression on his face is priceless! It really makes you feel that he is enjoying himself and the crowd is to. I have to say at first glance I thought this photo would be a sure winner for a front page story, however..

The second photo shows the subject with the people and you really get to see the crowds reaction.

It would be a tough call, but I would of chose the first solely because you see his face and how the image brings the eye right to your main subject. In the second photo I'm looking at the crowd more then I'm looking at the subject.

So yes, the first photo.. my amateur decision at it's best!?!

These really are two great shots, you must of been proud of these little monsters. ;)

[dothevampire]

Hello cruel world of critiquing!
I offer up one of mine for your thoughts and opinion's. I'm just starting to get back into photography after dabbling with it in high school/college. I decided to bring my 35mm Canon FT QL (yes she's an old beauty!) to the dog park one Sunday. The subject matter was quick and fierce and those little buggers sure did give me and my little pooch a run around. After several attempts to get my little girl to stand still I had little time to focus snapped this one quickly! Please let me know your thoughts!

http://www.perfuma.net/eric/sophie001.jpg

[Eauboy]

Hello cruel world of critiquing!
I offer up one of mine for your thoughts and opinion's. I'm just starting to get back into photography after dabbling with it in high school/college. I decided to bring my 35mm Canon FT QL (yes she's an old beauty!) to the dog park one Sunday. The subject matter was quick and fierce and those little buggers sure did give me and my little pooch a run around. After several attempts to get my little girl to stand still I had little time to focus snapped this one quickly! Please let me know your thoughts!



Ha. I like that. Really catches the attitude very well. The bone (?) is a bit of a distracting element but otherwise I like the way the limited DoF brings out the dog.

[bootedbear]

Here's another portrait of Little Bear. Please comment on suggestions for improvement.

http://homepage.mac.com/bootedbear/IMG_0264.framed.jpg

[Father Jack]

Here's another portrait of Little Bear. Please comment on suggestions for improvement.

http://homepage.mac.com/bootedbear/IMG_0264.framed.jpg

Nice little photo, but watch the background. The fence doesn't really add to the picture .. ;)

[latergator116]

A couple of long-time neighborhood regulars at an old downtown Portland bar which would soon be closing its doors for good to make way for a fast food joint. I shot it from the far corner of the bar with a bit of fill flash, converted to grayscale.

Canon Eos 630
ISO 100
Canon 100-300
Kodak Gold 100

Nice Photo! Too bad about the all-too-familiar story behind it.

[stephensilva1]

Just started taking photos and am hoping to become more advanced in the future. Took this picture last summer and edited it a bit with Aperture 2.0 Critiques are gratefully accepted. :) (I had to resize it down for the forum so it's not in full resolution)

http://aycu08.webshots.com/image/46647/2001663153341731629_rs.jpg

[Doylem]

http://aycu08.webshots.com/image/46647/2001663153341731629_rs.jpg

Looks a great place to be, especially from the perspective of an English winter).

But there's an awful lot of sea... and an awful lot of sky... and a sliver of land in between. While the mood is pleasantly sunny, there isn't a lot for the eye to rest on. In most good pix, the eye will go to one thing first, then roam around the pic... and then maybe return to the main subject: a 'round trip' that may only take a second or two, but which creates a positive impression.

The subject of your picture is in the middle distance. With a wide-angle lens, that really leaves too much blue, too much empty space. It may sound like a bit of a photographic cliché, but the foreground needs some interest. Imagine a boat at its mooring, or a pier, or maybe a person with their back to us... we could 'see' the view through their eyes.

I couldn't tell, from this pic, what YOU found most interesting in the scene. I just wish I was there, that's all, rather than freezing my b****cks off in England... ;)

[stephensilva1]

Thanks for the critiques, I understand what you mean by needing to have something to "see" and it having to much empty space. Thanks for the help and I hope I"ll be able to take better pictures next time. Oh by the way, that picture was taken in Portugal and I am also freezing over here in the Americas. :D

[OCBC]

another for critique...
i took this this summer in New Orleans. He's a rambling blues guitarist from NYC who was playing on Frenchman street in new orleans. I like the composition of this one and the expression of joy on his face, but there were some others that were sharper in the face, so i was torn as to which to post. oh yes, as a guitarist also i must say he was a pretty awesome player and really cool guy to talk to. anyway, let me have it.
peace,
Sean

D50
1/25
ISO 400
f5.6
jpeg capture

[alecmcmahon]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2150/2284313908_d893e01dae.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/12939356@N02/sets/72157603957302196/)

tryed blowing out the background via a white wall, but only having 2 flashes going through umbrellas sort of made it difficult, still i like the shot....

anybody have tips for background blow out, i know there is a bit of color variation on the white.

( click the pic for the rest of the set )

- Alec

[TripleX]

I purchased my first DSLR a month ago and I am of course still in the experimental stage. I would appreciate some honest assessment of this photo, especially with regards to composition. Thanks.

[redrabbit]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2106/2285519726_efbfba5f15_o.jpg

This retired soldier has fought in four of Israel's wars in the past 40 years. He now lives on the Israeli-Lebanon border, where this photo was taken. Born in Cleveland, Ohio in the 1940's, he emigrated, called Aliyah, to Israel when he was around 20 or so years old and joined the IDF. Where he lives is well within rocket range of Lebanon, but he doesn't mind, and is very willing to share his views on Israeli policy and politics.

[pdxflint]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2106/2285519726_efbfba5f15_o.jpg

This retired soldier has fought in four of Israel's wars in the past 40 years. He now lives on the Israeli-Lebanon border, where this photo was taken. Born in Cleveland, Ohio in the 1940's, he emigrated, called Aliyah, to Israel when he was around 20 or so years old and joined the IDF. Where he lives is well within rocket range of Lebanon, but he doesn't mind, and is very willing to share his views on Israeli policy and politics.

A compelling portrait of an interesting, complex man. The photo reveals the years of struggles he has lived through and his eyes reflect a fierce pride and conviction of purpose. This is a good example of words and picture combining to tell a story better than either could have done alone. 4.5 out of 5. (This could have just as easily been a 5, but I always leave room for improvement somewhere down the road... ;) ) Great photojouralism/feature shot!

[appie57]

I purchased my first DSLR a month ago and I am of course still in the experimental stage. I would appreciate some honest assessment of this photo, especially with regards to composition. Thanks.

I like the soft colors in this photo, in combination with the atmosphere of a sunny winter/spring day. I would have removed the black cloth (?) in the background. Was there nobody around to sit in the sun? Or perhaps have some cups or glasses on the table to suggest human presence. It is a little 'empty' as it is now and also the depth of focus you chose is not clear (second chair out of focus). Well, only my opinion.

[pdxflint]

I thought it might be interesting to see these two photos, mainly because they were both taken from the same spot in Todos Santos, Baja California Sur almost exactly two years apart with two different cameras (and to keep the thread going...;))

Photo 1: Date - March 22, 2005 - Canon a95 P/S

http://lh4.google.com/pdxflint/R0KWl1pa7jI/AAAAAAAADJY/NKrFG39Qyc8/s800/img_0009.JPG

Model: Canon PowerShot A95
ISO: 100
Exposure: 1/80 sec
Aperture: f/4.9
Focal Length: 23.4mm

Photo 2: Date - March 20, 2007 - Nikon D50 w/kit lens

http://lh3.google.com/pdxflint/RhbhjJzwmrI/AAAAAAAAAbk/_aMU8eOv5ug/s800/DSC_3071.JPG

Model: NIKON D50
ISO: 200
Exposure: 1/320 sec
Aperture: f/9.0
Focal Length: 55mm

[OCBC]

Hey pdxflint, thanks for keeping it alive. Definitely an interesting study of the cameras and lenses. I actually like the first shot more than the second. The light is warmer and more interesting and i like the way the lens compressed the depth of the image. I'm not too clear on your intended subject or message, but they're nicely composed. Anyway, in the hopes of keeping going with the critique, I'll give the first shot a 3.5/5 and the second a 3/5.

Here's another one I took in New Orleans over the summer. I appreciate all comments and suggestions. This thread has been extremely enlightening, let's keep it up!

Nikon D50
18-55mm lens
1/25 sec
f5.6
iso 200
55mm
handheld

[davinche]

I'm just trying to get better at photography, so any help would be greatly appreciated.
This is a picture of two of my younger cousins at Fisher Man's Wharf in Monterey, CA.

Nikon D40
55-200VR
1/320 sec
f4.5
iso 200
86mm
handheld

[hector]

Hi all, I think this is the first time I have ever actually posted anything I have taken here... would love to know what you think of these shots I took in Israel last year!

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k9/charleshector/israel/CIMG1273.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k9/charleshector/israel/CIMG1163.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k9/charleshector/israel/CIMG1122.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k9/charleshector/israel/CIMG1694.jpg


I'm a real novice with photography but it's something I would love to really get into. Any criticism or advice would be great!

Hector

[dllavaneras]

I'll post another one to keep the thread going. I'm toying with the idea of creating the valentine's card myself this year. This was my first attempt.

I actually like that one a lot! 4/5, the rail is a bit distracting. Awesome shot! You should be proud of that one.

tryed blowing out the background via a white wall, but only having 2 flashes going through umbrellas sort of made it difficult, still i like the shot....


Very nice! The corners are a bit dark, are you shooting wide open? That could be light fallout from the lens (I don't know if vignetting is the correct term). You can try setting the flash exposure to +1/3 to see if that blows out the white wall a bit more. BTW, have I come across this very pic on DevArt? I remember liking it :D

4/5, just because I would have loved for it to be a bit more symmetric in the way the cards are flying. I know it's not your fault ;)


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k9/charleshector/israel/CIMG1273.jpg


Nice, although the composition could be a bit better IMHO. Cropping a bit from the left would make that pic really shine, since you would appear tiny compared to the background and look like you were really, really high. 4/5 :)

Now, I'd like for you to criticize this pic. It's a macro taken a couple of weeks ago. I placed it so I could use it as a wallpaper on my iMac, that's why it's not centered. :D (click on the pic for a full 1680x1050 wallpaper)

[Everythingisnt]

@ Dllanveras

I like the symmetry in that picture but it feels a bit 2-dimensional to me. Also, if I were you I would try to get some more color out of it (or maybe just higher contrast) since the green is very similar throughout the entire picture.



Just my two cents, anyways - it's definitely a great pic. :)

[dllavaneras]

I like the symmetry in that picture but it feels a bit 2-dimensional to me. Also, if I were you I would try to get some more color out of it (or maybe just higher contrast) since the green is very similar throughout the entire picture.

Duly noted :) It's hard to get more depth in the pic, since I'm working with a narrow DOF, but I'll keep that in mind :) Thanks!

[brendanryder]

Link to March critque (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=446469)