The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
The day was humid and slightly overcast. While photographing mating lions I noticed a young male hiding in the tall grass, apparently observing the coupling in the manner of a “peeping tom.” As I rapidly changed my position and camera settings to try to get an over-the-shoulder shot of the mating pair, the adult male rushed over to confront and discipline the voyeur.
I think the ferocity and intensity of the confrontation enhances the impact of the image. The curves and angles - the body postures - of both animals add substance to the story while keeping the viewer tightly focused on the action. A low angle, and the late afternoon light differentiates them against the landscape. The single out-of-focus tree on the horizon balances the distance hills, and a fast enough shutter speed freezes the moment in time.
Specific Feedback
All feedback on composition and story-telling in the image is welcome
Technical Details
Equipment: Nikon D850 with Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 lens
Settings: manual exposure: 1/1250 sec @f2.8, ISO 220, focal length 135mm
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Garnet, this is a stunning image. The action and re-action of the lions is excellent, and you are at exactly the right angle to catch faces, eyes, and epressions. I like your pano crop, but a little more room on the left and bottom might be good.
I have mixed emotions about the horizon tree as one can’t really tell what is is. I’d suggest removing the tree, and that one tall bit of grass seemingly going into the left lion’s mouth.
Exceptional catch!
This is just an excellent action shot Garnet. Wow!!! Love the look from both lions in this one. Great low angle, nice depth and POV. I k now it gives perspective tot he setting, but I still don’t like that little OOF tree way back there. It makes me think of a dust bunny on the lens.
I think that it tells the story well Garnet. The aggression and the response are very clear. The angle and perspective really put us in the picture, I can almost her the snarls, (you were close).
I also like the single tree … It could look like a smudge but I think it might be an acacia.
Dear @SandyR-B , @JRajput , and @Ed_Williams . I am sorry for the delayed response. Sometimes life interferes with photography.
First, let me thank you all for your feedback.
Sandy, I appreciate that extending the canvas a bit might improve the composition, but I don’t use photoshop. This is a conscious decision on my part, to try to get it right in camera.
Ed, I appreciate your feedback, but feel that without the out of focus tree the composition would seem unbalanced.
JRijput, this is high praise from a photographer of your status. Thank you.
Talk about feeling the tension! Excellent shot of a natural moment captured. Very dramatic and powerful. Love it! I have a friend who has been to a few places like this to photograph and capture the wild animals. Always in awe of the land, all the space, and how they survive.
