Agave

Image Critiques Flora Critiques
1

Agave c-2.JPG
Agave c-2.JPG3456×5184 569 KB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

There’s no real story to this one. We have an agave in our back yard. I’ve photographed it many times. I photographed it again this morning using my infrared camera, a flash and a large aperture.

Specific Feedback

Any and all comments are welcome.

Technical Details

ISO 200, 50mm prime, f/2.8, 1/100th, flash.

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1 Like
2

Infrared, cool! And a rare instance where a white vignette is the call. I really enjoy this photo so I’m reaching, but I’m curious how it would look with more diffuse light and a larger aperture to get more of the core of the plant in focus.

3

Thanks for the comment, Matthew. What I like about agaves is their forms. For the most part I don’t want much detail. I took another shot at f/5.6. That may be a better choice.

Agave 2 c-
Agave 2 c-2957×4436 534 KB

More diffuse light is an interesting thought. I used the flash to create some definition and keep the shot from looking too flat but I may see how a diffused flash works. I appreciate the suggestion.

4

Don, the softness and lines of the agave are very appealing.
The vignette works well here. A fine image!

Just a word of caution - these things can be very nasty. The sap is extremely irritating to the skin. Jim cut down a huge one for a neighbor, and got scraps all over his arms and legs. They swelled up amazingly, and the bright red itchy rash was unbearable. Several hours in the ER on IV steroids. He still has scars from the rash.

5

Ouch. I’d never heard that, Sandy. I’ve pricked myself on ours a few times but I’ll be careful in the future.

6

Amazing and wonderful! I love them both! The soft light and high key is very appealing and the light vignette is perfect! I don’t see evidence of fill flash, as the edges of the shadows are so beautifully soft. Wonderful tonalities on the leaves, distinguishing them from one another so nicely. Well done!!

7

Very lovely, Don. I don’t see much to choose between the two images. They both fade nicely into that beautiful soft look.

8

Diane, Dennis, thanks for the comments. This kind of shot certainly isn’t suitable for every subject but I like the result with agaves.