The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
This image is from our last trip to Blackwater Falls SP, WV in October of 2025. The water flows were particularly low during our visit; in fact a local even mentioned they were the lowest she has ever seen. At first I was a little bummed out until I realized this would allow me to capture some intimate scenes from the base of the falls that would not ordinarily be visible. The 400 mm was not quite long enough to capture this so I wound up cropping some of the frame.
Specific Feedback
Just wondering if you see the figure sitting there or is it just my imagination in overdrive? Anything else you notice please feel free to mention it.
Technical Details
Nikon Z 7, Nikon Z 100-400 @ 400 mm, f 11 @ 1/8 sec, ISO 100, Kase magnetic CPL, cable release & tripod.
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:
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Color:
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Technical:
Ed, this is nicely mysterious and dreamy with its fine curtain of water. After some time looking I do see a head in the main fall, lower right. I do suggest some darks dodging in the upper right so that area better matchs the brightness of the left side. It’s an excellent scene.
Ed: I really like what your SS accomplished here with the weak flow. I’m pretty OK with the tonal range although I do see what @Mark_Seaver is saying. Looks like you made some fine lemonade from less that ideal conditions. >=))>
Very lovely, and different! Perfect for B/W with opportunities to play with tonal balance but different may not necessarily be better. I have a feeling of wanting it rotated CW quite a bit.
Many thanks everyone @Mark_Seaver, @Bill_Fach, @Diane_Miller and @Michael_Lowe for your thoughts on this image; always appreciated. It looks as though my brother’s rework might be the ticket with your suggestions. @Diane_Miller : This section was on the far right side of the falls and I was on the left side. I probably should have taken the angle into account rather than just leveling the camera. I have some extra fame to play with. I’ll see what I can do. @Michael_Lowe : I don’t mind at all. Thanks for taking the time to do a rework.
I can’t top what @Michael_Lowe came up with, so in the spirit of more opinions are better than a few I’ll just add my applause, especially with his changes.
