CRITIQUE CLUB CRITIQUE
by karmat
Overall, I like how you have filled the frame with the subject. It gives it a sense of busy-ness, but also showcases the uniqueness of each of the cones.
Compositionally, I like that the one prominent cone is in the upper left "third" of the shot. I think if it were in the bottom left or right, though, it would have a stronger sense of balance to it. Also, there is a very subtle line drawn between the browns and the lighter browns. You can use this to make your composition stronger by setting it on a diagonal, so that the "line" (even though it is not obvious), runs corner to corner instead of side to side.
Technically, the focus seems just a hair off. If you were not using a tripod to steady the camera (which would be my first suggestion), I would think lower the aperture number would give you the ability to shoot with a faster shutter speed, and if the slight blur is due to camera shake, that might be eliminated. It is a bit flat, so a slight touch of contrast (via curves, levels, brightness/contrast) may help that a little.
This was a tough challenge because I think with "still life" comes the notion that you have every thing under control and should be able to shoot until perfection. As a result, the voters were probably a bit picky.
Best to you in future challenges
karma |