The Artist
by scalvert

Comment:
That is so cool, creative. Tying impressionist painting to contemporary photography.

The Tree Stands Alone
by aerogurl

Comment:
Why is it that I don't get very tired of seeing so many lone trees out in the...? but I don't. Well done, both technically and aesthetically. Superb dynamic range.

The Lion King
by yashman

Comment:
Most excellant! except for the crop. You see, we know there is a lot of that missing on the bottom, and it is all so beautiful, we can not help but feel cheated by the loss.

eye shadow
by daisy77

Comment:
This is a great idea, although I would like to see it with a greater DOF.

twice lucky
by lakritstroll

Comment:
Beautiful image.

A Bridge To Serendipity
by Tikicharm

Comment:
Normally I would really dislike a reference to the challenge in a title, but I am convinced this is the bridge to serendipity and maybe adventure and beauty. I sure could recommend a lot less red in the image, and the top of the left beams are blown out.

Cats Ignore Humans
by sixmacs

Comment:
Isn't that wonderful. Nice capture.

Unexpected Invitation
by Zoomdak

Comment:
There are so many nice things about this shot. The bench is a great serendipitous experience which really invites one to sit and enjoy the lush and natural beauty. A perfect spot. The light balance is good, maybe a tiny bit too much contrast, but no, out in the bright day life is quite contrasty.

I have a couple nits. The ocean appears to be draining down to the left which is quite an uncomfortable vision for humans; 2% CW rotate removes all the discomfort. Also, since we are all digital here, one wonders about the broken shadow/light shown in that crack in the lower rear of the bench.

One thing that really gripes my [whatever] is your use of the word “Unexpected” in the title, as if you have serious contempt for your audience’s capacity to understand the implication or otherwise intuit that aspect from the “Invitation” (not to mention we ALL know this is a serendipity challenge). You assault us with that word.

Still, I give a decent score which could contribute to a win.

Which one is heavier?
by LenM

Comment:
That is really a nice macro and a fortuitous capture, and a great show of strength. Beautiful color, light, brokeh, nice.

The Age of Innocence
by Kali

Comment:
Let me explain why I would vote high on this one. The expression on this tiny soul’s face is totally cute as she discovers something else that is totally cool. Even if a photographer might set this up or wait all day to capture this shot, for me it would be serendipitous if I just happened to walk by as she did this, because it would make my day wonderful, and that could be what the author is saying.