Dahlia Explosion

Image Critiques Flora Critiques
1

20240815_092156_Z819548.jpg
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Critique Style Requested: Initial Reaction

Please share your immediate response to the image before reading the photographer’s intent (obscured text below) or other comments. The photographer seeks a genuinely unbiased first impression.

Questions to guide your feedback

Hello all, I have been away for a while…just looking for your initial thoughts here…

Other Information

Please leave your feedback before viewing the blurred information below, once you have replied, click to reveal the text and see if your assessment aligns with the photographer. Remember, this if for their benefit to learn what your unbiased reaction is.

Image Description

I had a realization that the camera gear I had did not perform as I expected. So…sold it all and went down the Nikon road. I’m very happy with that move.

I’m pleased with the results on this image, handheld in overcast sky and pretty strong wind.

Technical Details

Nikon Z 8, Z 105 MC, 1/50sec@ f/14, ISO 500. The 500 ISO is the point where dual processing takes place and noise is actually lower than ISO 200.

Specific Feedback

Mostly looking for Aesthetic and Emotional. Thanks all.

Critique Template

Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.

  • Vision and Purpose:
  • Conceptual:
  • Emotional Impact and Mood:
  • Composition:
  • Balance and Visual Weight:
  • Depth and Dimension:
  • Color:
  • Lighting:
  • Processing:
  • Technical:
2

Initial reaction? Wow!! Totally an explosion! The petals pull me into the middle with its wonderful detail. And welcome back – I’ve missed you! Congrats on the new rig – reds and yellows are a huge challenge for every sensor I’ve ever had and they look gorgeous here – strong but none of the loss of detail that is so often seen. Can’t wait to see more.

3

More flame than explosion, David though I can see that title as well. A beautiful flower and I like the way you framed it, though if you have it, just a touch more on top to give that tip in the upper right some clearance would be great.

4

Thank you @Diane_Miller and @Dennis_Plank for the kind comments.

Dennis, unfortunately this was hand held in overcast but very windy conditions. That’s the whole crop. I will be returning next week to try some more…

5

Initial reaction was WOW, love the composition. I think you’ve nailed the appropriate depth of field for this. The slightly blurred yellow in the back even further enhances the bright reds.

1 Like
6

With theses flowers, I find it very difficult to get the right amount of petals with enough space for an ideal comp. With these type of photos, the ideal comp can be just about anything the photographer desires. This one has a nice abstract feel to it with the reds and yellows nicely displayed. I think that having the center of the flower in the lower region of the center gives the image a feeling about sunrise. I would not change a thing and like this as presented…Jim

1 Like
7

@Paul_Holdorf and @Jim_Zablotny thank you for the kind words. Much appreciated.

8

Wow David, I love the colors in this one. The yellow BG colors really accentuate the reds. Great show. Congratulations on the new equipment too. I finally broke down after retirement and picked up a mirrorless camera and lenses. I love them. Good to see you posting again.