Take a Bow

Image Critiques Flora Critiques
1

Take-a-Bow-2025-01-12-17-06-39-(B,R8,S4)A772-25.jpg
Take-a-Bow-2025-01-12-17-06-39-(B,R8,S4)A772-25.jpg1335×2000 1.65 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

We have finally had some cooler weather but our succulents seem to be thriving anyway. Had a good session with several of them today. I was trying to figure out how to shoot this little guy and decided to wake up my semi-retired 200mm macro and A77II. The old guys were a little cranky and when I told the 200 that we were going to try some stacks he muttered something about “new fangled technology. :rage: :triumph:” He is a little old and stiff (kind of like his owner) and in the past the results have shown his lack of enthusiasm. But today I think we did OK.

Specific Feedback

Could have made the filaments go away but I like the details. Also debated on making the partial tip on the right side go away too but felt like there was enough of it that it wasn’t too much of an eye pull.

Technical Details

Sony A77II
Minolta 200mm macro
ISO 400, 1/80 @ f8, 9 shot stack in Helicon Focus

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

Bill, I think old 200mm is just a bit upset you haven’t been using him more often. This is an elegant composition, and his stacking is crisp and clean. The old codger might even complain a bit about the paler spot in the lower center of the BG and the pale BG crescent under the subject along the Rt edge, but the winter cold has been gnawing away at his joints. Keep using him and I’m sure he’ll cheer up!

3

I love the curve of the plant, Bill. It looks to me like the old guys did very well here. While I like the convenience of a zoom, when I want really good macro work I still dig out the old Canon 180 macro. It may be old, but its image quality still can’t be beat.

4

Bill, the overall detail is excellent in the larger version. The composition works very nicely with the positioning starting in the URHC… :+1:
I feel a bit of sorrow as I’ve not used my macro setup in quite sometime. Maybe it’s time to give it a try if I can make my own physical maneuvering into position to a lower profile… :scream:

5

A fine shot, Bill. There’s ample detail where you want it and a good bokeh where you don’t.

Succulents can be addictive. :slight_smile: