Seagulls at Sunset Cliffsby
ecdillonComment by CEJ: Hello from the Critique Club!
I have studied your image and have the following to offer:
Composition/perspective - in my opinion you have to consider the three sections as a whole to really appreciate this composition. Although the division is well done (see below) the whole scene is very serene and quiet. Another element that makes this work is the fact it is all sky, no land. A nice play off your title. The number of birds in the scene is enough to keep the ratio of apparent negative space and the subjects becoming imbalanced. Their placement is the shot is very well done and the space between them is short enough that the group can be considered as a whole helping the balance.
Color – as a whole there is a very nice gradation from top to bottom in this scene and with the divisions (see below) separating the shot very well. Each panel has its own place in the palette. The birds silhouetted against the colors in all areas is perfect. They allow the color to stand for itself and creates a second viewing balance – between the birds and the colors of sky. The strongest aspect of the colors in the shot, in my opinion, is the leading line affect they have. I find myself drawn over the shot following the color shift from top to bottom.
Lighting – natural light very well used. Time of day was chosen perfectly for this exposure. A little later and the birds would start to get lost in the darkening blue and earlier and the horizon would be too bright. The small clouds on the horizon attest to good exposure control for the available light as well. Well done!
Challenge requirements – at first glance I can see where people would be somewhat turned off by this as a Triptych. However, the division into thirds of this shot is such that is creates a perfect triptych. Each panel has its own color tone which separates them very nicely and creates three separate moods in the shot. I also find it interesting that the top and bottom panels only have two birds in them. Done on purpose? Either way, I find it an element that lends strength.
Overall/my opinion – this is a very beautiful shot with a lot of emotive force. The colors are excellent and at just the right intensity to create synergy with the mood. The grouping of the flock of birds is well done and their arrangement in the scene couldn’t be better if you asked them to pose. Very well done!
EDIT: Removed paste error
Message edited by author 2005-11-26 16:38:06. 
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