Abstract Collander
by SoulMan1978

Comment by geoffb:
Hi from the Critique Club,

First of all, congratulations on your first submission. This image is well lit and has good global contrast. Even in the dark areas, the dark holes of the colander provide nice local contrast.

As was mentioned by other commenters, the water spots are very distracting. Had you cleaned the colander prior to this shot, it would have had a nice, flowing (i.e. continuous) brushed metal look. My eyes are drawn to each of the water spots, and are unable to take in the image as a whole.

Certainly not a bad shot, although I think the water spots probably hurt your vote on more than just three occasions. You certainly have the skills to break five on your second submission, which is quite an accomplishment.

Welcome, and congratulations again on your first challenge entry.

Regards,
Geoff Ball

Apple Pi
by SoulMan1978

Comment by ElectriqueLime:
The lighting isn't very good and the image could be sharper.

Apple Pi
by SoulMan1978

Comment by Kimber90:
Creative idea...but the lighting is very dull and gray. It needs a little bit more contrast.

Apple Pi
by SoulMan1978

Comment by mephoto:
seems pretty uninspired and the elements are disconnected

Apple Pi
by SoulMan1978

Comment by Blink_Too_Fast:
I'd increase the contrast.

Cat amongst the pigeons
by SoulMan1978

Comment by jblaylockrayner:
Love the idea - The last image is nice and strong which lets the other 2 down.

Apple Pi
by SoulMan1978

Comment by taterbug:
This is a really super idea, I quite like it. I do believe though there are a couple of things holding this photo back though. Mainly, it is very flat, and lacks contrast and 'punch'. Some can be added in editing. Also, good use of lighting during the shoot can make a big difference. Either with lights, or available, natural light, you should make sure the subject is well lit. The composition is ok, and you've nicely isolated the subject by keeping the scene clean and uncluttered, although this particular background and surface isn't 'great', maybe something with just a little texture, or character could be nice for this image. Also, about the lighting, I've noticed with shots of fruit/veggies, etc, that top notch shots avoid glare spots, like you have here. That is a matter I think of just close attention and moving either your light source or subject to avoid this. Another minor thing, is attention to the choice of apple itself. In a shot like this, one should try to find as 'perfect' an apple as possible, see how this one has scratches and such, and not a 'perfect' apple shape? I know, it sounds nit-picky, but the little things add up when trying to achieve the 'wow factor'. Finally, I'm not sure if black/white was the best choice for this image. I can picture it in full color, with nice lighting, and could see it scoring quite high. But maybe that is just me :-) And once again, I love the concept!

Cat amongst the pigeons
by SoulMan1978

Comment by MaryO:
Good storytelling. I would prefer the grass in all 3 panels be the same shade; I find the differences distract me from the actual subjects.

Cat amongst the pigeons
by SoulMan1978

Comment by annig:
poor poor pidge!

DSJ Church as viewed from Back Lane
by SoulMan1978

Comment by Benzgirl:
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