Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by Imagineer:
:: Hello from the Critique Club ::
............................................................

You've chosen a popular subject for many here and your aim with this has been largely successful. The soldiers do look bonded by mutual respect and you have captured the moment well, the key to the specialness being the impressionable boy looking on.

For me the spot blue is not particularly useful here since, as someone who is unaware of its particular relevance, it appears gratuitous and not crucial to the success or impact of the photo. I think it may be too subtle as well.

Technically, the composition is quite busy and, since this was advanced editing, I would have cloned out the close foreground blur on the left which 'closes in' on the subject too much.

Also, the contrast seems a bit light with some whites appearing a little blown. Some attention via levels, curves or the gradient map (black/white) in 'overlay' blending mode may have improved this. The main effect of deepening the contrast would be to add gravitas to the image making it more appropriate to the subject matter.

All the best
Jon

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by graphicfunk:
Congratulations on your 19th placing. This image is strong and greatly moving because it speaks of the continuation of the brave.

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by graphicfunk:
returning for comments:
Very moving capture and great choice for b/w as it gives it that rusted feel. Bumping up.

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by nova:
Sirring photo, a true "hero" shot.

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by L2:
I absolutely love the way you used selective saturation here - so subtle and yet so effective. You've captured an emotional moment very well - you must be very pleased with this shot. One of my favorite entries in the challenge.

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by Bud:
Good photo, I like the image and the thought in this shot.

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by neesa108:
Wonderful interpretation - lack of color except his arm strap. Very well done!

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by scrum8:
Excellent capture of the expression!! My father wore the same blue pogey rope on his shoulder.

Witness to the Passing of Honor – Infantry Blue
by photographist

Comment by saintaugust:
the boy watching in the foreground makes the shot

November
by photographist

Comment by KDO:
This photograph leaves me unsure of what to focus on. I would like to see more of the dock down at the level of the water, or more of the far shore. One or the other. This framing makes the body of water seem insignificant to me.