How about that Salad?by
MoxyComment by karmat: CRITIQUE CLUB CRITIQUE
by karmat
This is an excellent photojournalistic shot. Its vibrant colors and excellent focus really make it *pop.* I also like that you were able to keep the strong colors AND capture some of the smoke. The smoke adds an element of "realness" to the shot and without it, it would just look like some firemen standing around.
Compositionally, you have followed the rule of thirds well. The firemen are in the strong point of the picture, and the machinery in the background help to "lift" the eyes up and through the frame.
The only nitpick I would have is that the fence, or railing seems a bit crooked and makes it feel as if the entire picture is tilted. I think, for the challenge voting crew, though, these kind of shots have to be head and shoulders above everything else, photojournalism just doesn't always seem to score high here. You did well to invoke humor, though it took me a minute to "get it."
Nice work, and best to you in future challenges. If I need to clarify or further explain myself, please feel free to contact me.
Karma