Pre-Xerophobiaby
newsjunkie93Comment by SJCarter: * Greetings from the Critique Club *
First let me say that I scored this a 5 during the challenge. I, like the several other commenters did not see the "phobia" link. In fact, when I looked up the word "pre-xerophobia", I couldn't find it anywhere. Maybe it's misspelled? I found xenophobia and aerophobia. Anyway, I think what hurt your score more than anything was the apparent lack of relation to the challenge topic.
That being said, I think it's a good photograph outside the parameters of the challenge.
Composition:
I think you broke the rule of "don't center your subject" and got away with it quite well. It works here. You captured a great expression on the model and the image conveys a lot of feeling - good job. I would probably consider cloning out the white line in the upper right, but realize that in basic editing this would not have been allowed during the challenge.
Lighting:
Nice job controlling the lighting in what was probably difficult circumstances (outside during the day). You don't have any overexposed areas that I see other than the man's shirt sleeve in the background, but it's not distracting to me.
Focus/DOF:
Very good focus on the model and DOF on the water and background. You managed to keep the viewer's attention on the main subject through a lot of potential distractions - also good work. I like the blurred background and water spray in the foreground. Well done.
Overall:
Again, I like the shot - and while it does have a snapshot feel to it, it also conveys a lot of emotion and makes the viewer smile. The lack of obvious relation to the challenge topic really hurt your score IMHO, but shouldn't take away from your enjoyment of a good shot.
Remember this is just my 2 cents... I look forward to seeing more of your work!
Jimmy
Photographer found comment helpful.
