Wish I were stronger, I can't seem to break the chain
by zool

Comment by dr rick:
Greetings from the Critique Club.

This photo conveys a definite message and is technically very well done. The low key treatment is perfect for the photo's purpose, and exposure and focus are perfect. The elements of the photo are nicely arranged. The picture is dominated by the horizontal and vertical lines of the cigarette, ashtray, pack, and chain, which suggests stability. This is in stark contrast to the diagonal arm with clenched fist, which makes the message of "I want to quit" even stronger.

I especially like the tattoo of the scorpion, a symbol of treachery that is certainly appropriate for the idea here. It's just the right size, large enough to be noticable but not so large as to compete with the main elements. Another nice touch is how the smoke connects the cigarette to the chain, which is certainly rife with meaning.

There are two compositional items that could be improved. First, the camera should be tilted up a bit. The negative space at the bottom doesn't do anything for the photo, but it really needs some negative space at the top for better balance. Second, the top half of the cigarette pack is too busy and too light; it detracts from the rest of the photo. I love the red color of the bottom half; a prop pack with that color and clearly labeled "cigarettes" would do a lot for the photo.

Overall lighting is great, especially on the ashtray where the brightness is pleasing and a welcome contrast from the overall darkness. But the bright spots on the hand and behind the pack are distracting. Perhaps a snoot on your rear light would have helped.

Getting ready to add some speed to the speed challenge
by zool

Comment by karmat:
CRITIQUE CLUB CRITIQUE
by karmat

Compositionally, this is a strong and balanced picture. None of the objects overwhelm the others, and it is composed in such a way that the eyes are given "paths" to "travel" through the frame which adds interest to the shot.

Technically, it is dark, but that seems befitting to the mood and subject. It seems a bit flat, so a small boost to contrast may help, BUT, I'm viewing on my laptop, and everything seems to end up looking flat on it. :)

You have done well at including all the required components without it looking contrived and forced. Good work.

If I need to further clarify or explain anything, please feel free to contact me.

Wish I were stronger, I can't seem to break the chain
by zool

Comment by Haneck:
The composition is a little cluttered and confusing here... but the lighting and focus is wonderful!

Wish I were stronger, I can't seem to break the chain
by zool

Comment by muur88:
interesting name for something craved. at first i thought it was something to help you stop smoking, at which point i was wondering why you were chained to that. i may be a bit slow sometimes, but i did manage to figure out that it was actually a pack of smokes ;)

Wish I were stronger, I can't seem to break the chain
by zool

Comment by stanm2:
overdone idea

Spinning Some Tunes
by zool

Comment by geekgirl717:
I found this a little dark, though I like the composition.

Spinning Some Tunes
by zool

Comment by frankly_fine:
Uninteresting. Poorly exposed. Lacking creativity. I wish I could say something positive but I get the feeling very little effort was put into this image and it shows.

Spinning Some Tunes
by zool

Comment by onegr8dady:
Little to dark for me would like to have a few more details.

Spinning Some Tunes
by zool

Comment by omnisppot:
Too dark, background is distracting

Spinning Some Tunes
by zool

Comment by bdenny:
I would've picked a different angle. The lights in the background sort of obscure the 'arm' (or whatever its called...the thing that touches the record). I love the concept though.