In this early morning capture of the sunlight painting the peaks surrounding the lake, I was fortunate enough to have a perfectly still morning to catch a beautiful reflection and complete this composition. I was curious as to why it received a "Needs Work" rating in my portfolio... so I am throwing it out here for everyone/anyone to give me some ideas for improvement.
Beautiful image!
Thank you!
first of all I would say I love it. I have a similar photo, But to be real tough I could say that I'm not crazy about the balance (framing), I think it is a little heavy on the right side. Perhaps a crop could fix it. I know that composition is truly a person choice. Never the less it's a great photo,
I think your right about the framing, the more I look at this., the right side of the frame really does not add much. I will ponder this version...
I wouldn't pay too much attention to the ratings, Peter. If you want meaningful feedback on your work, do what you're doing here, and post in Groups for discussion.
I note you're fairly new here, so I'd also add: comment on others' work in the Groups. That gets you noticed, perhaps drawing people with a constructive mindset to your portfolio. Over time, you will form a group with whom you will enjoy exchanging images and views. You've caught my attention.
Many excellent photographers get "bombed" with 1-2 star ratings by anonymous individuals with some sort of grudge - the closest FS gets to trolling. I rarely vote down anything, even spam, for this reason, to avoid revenge bombing, although I think I've had some after I couldn't restrain myself in response to bitter-&-twisted Comments, which are fortunately rare.
Many of us don't rate images we don't like. That's my attitude. I hate Mozart's music, but accept that my tastes are different to many who like it and would not criticise them - perhaps I'd ask if they could explain what about it appeals to them. (None have succeeded!).
The problem with "needs work" is that the clever person who effectively says so does not need to add "by doing... etc."
This image is fine. I think it is well composed. Personally, I find that the beautiful rim of light on the ridge struggles a bit against the shadowed and flatly lit forest. The flat (non-directional) light means that there is very little modelling of the contours & textures in that area. I'd have probably made a similar image here (perhaps I flatter myself), but as with other scenes, sometimes a beautiful scene for some reason is not suited to a great photo, because of the nature of the medium.
I think your work is good, and hope to see more from you.
Thank you so much for your feedback.
"The problem with "needs work" is that the clever person who effectively says so does not need to add "by doing... etc.""
I completely agree with that statement! I would not rate someone's work as such without offering some type of critique. I totally understand that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and unless there is some glaring flaw or they are asking for advice, its probably better to refrain from comment.
I am certainly not above a harsh critique - that is in fact why I am here! I will not grow as a photographer by hanging out in forums where people heap praises on my work undeservingly. I want the honest opinion from excellent photographers!
Thank you again for your reply!
So much for my critique then... honest opinion, but the other bit...
:- (
... I do think your critique is spot on. I do have versions when the light had hit the trees, but the angle of the light was not flattering to the scene and I think really diminished the impact of the surrounding peaks. Sometime like you say; beautiful scene doesn't always make for a great photograph.
I really do enjoy the back and forth! Thanks again :)
:-)