Cottonwoods

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

The hike to Hickman Bridge is an easy 2 miles in Capitol Reef National Park. With a bit of patience–not my strong suit–the light comes into the canyon just right.

Specific Feedback

I’m not so sure the image is balanced well. I have another of the same tree that I think is better balanced (attached), but no “frame.” Thoughts?

Technical Details

ISO 250. f/11. 1/80 sec.


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Delton, it’s easy to see why you like this tree, it is beautifully colored and the shaded rock wall behind it sets it off very well. As presented, the tree is overwhelmed by the brightness and the size of the rock wall on the left. The big arch of stone on the right is interesting in its own right, but again its size tends to dwarf the tree. I’d suggest cropping this to square with just a bit of the bright wall and all of the big arch and see what you think?

Mark: Good ideas. See what you think.
Del

Y

Great find in one of my favorite areas Delton. Agree with Mark that the left wall is distractingly bright – easily fixed so it doesn’t compete with that great tree. As for the heavy shaded right side, I like it because the massive stone is a nice contrast to the delicate tree. Also, you want that red in there. I’d only prune off the rough rocks along the right margin. With a bit of tweaking, I think this one is headed for a metal print.