Hello all. I'm fairly new here and am coming to find that just adding photos to my portfolio isn't the greatest way to get feedback. This is an image that actually got accepted into an art show and when it got a 1 star rating i was shocked. Could you guys give me some honest opinions? any constructive criticism is welcome, i am always trying to learn and grow and get better.
I like the combined texture of the branches and their buds mixed with the bird. This how birds are often seen so it has a believable context to it. as for "constructive criticism" the only thing I'd say is play with the focusing to have options. Try different depth of field settings. Birds are hard to photography especially obstructed by trees.
I would echo what Chris said. This would be a really cool image if the bird was in focus. Unfortunately the focus point seems to be the branches just in front of the bird. Shooting animals especially birds is tough.
Hello Shayne and welcome to the fun world of opinionland.
I totally understand your bewilderment with the popularity rating system here (to be fair, in most online forums).
What can help you understand it and distill from it any meaningful advice is if you remember that the vast majority of input will be coming form photographers, of varying skill levels, who are not trained to critique.
What you get are personal preferences. And though valid and meaningful, they are only just that that, personal preferences.
As with all social media sites "critiques" will start with... "I like" or "I would have..."
That tells you a lot.
If you really want some in depth critique you need to put your portfolio in front of a panel of true professionals adjudicators who have a years of experience giving in-depth, meaningful, and constructive feedback.
As to this image, keep exploring your style and you will find your visual voice.
Good luck and keep sharing with us your evolution.