Urban turtle

Image Critiques
1

Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-3 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg
Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-3 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg1920×1440 1.83 MB

Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-8 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg
Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-8 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg1920×1440 2.57 MB

What to do?

Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-6 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg
Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-6 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg1920×1440 2.48 MB

Picking it up

Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-9 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg
Snapping turtle by Cedar Lake-9 after Photolab and Photoshop2 camera club.jpg1920×1440 2.45 MB

Carrying it home

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

I was on my daily walk and having some quality time with this snapping turtle 4 years ago when it decided to travel across the street. It was probably going from the lake to the little wetland area where its nest was. I don’t know why this young man decided to take the matters into his own hands instead of just alerting the traffic, but I just grabbed my point-and-shoot camera and snapped away (pun intended) as he helped the turtle across the road.

There are now prominent “turtle crossing” signs on this stretch of the road during nesting season.

Specific Feedback

I suddenly found myself going from nature to documentary photography as the scene unfolded in front of my eyes. I took as many shots as I could while it was happening, but there was no time to think or plan ahead. So I’d especially appreciate any feedback on the documentary photography aspect of this series.

Technical Details

Camera: Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS70
f/4.2-6.3
1/640-1/800 sec
ISO 80-400

2

Oh my lordy! What a chonky little critter this one is. I love the moss and little dandylion seed heads that he’s wearing.

The first ground level image is just wonderful. You can see the determination on his face. He’s going to cross that road with or without help.

I think you’ll be a fine documentary photographer. These tell the story beautifully.

3

Thank you for your comments :-). Yes, it was chonky and determined all right!

4

Very cool series, Canan. That first shot of the turtle from ground level is spectacular.

5

Thanks, Dennis :slight_smile:

6

Nice series! That guy is brave to carry a snapper like that, although it is probably ok that far from the front. Their necks are 1/2 the length of their carapaces and they are fast as lightning. Stinky, too, that guy is going to regret it soon. I keep a shovel in my car for this kind of thing. Before that I’ve had them trying to take chunks out of a kayak paddle and my tripod leg. So a shovel it is!

7

Thanks, Kristen :slight_smile: And wow about the paddle & tripod leg! I wouldn’t want to mess with these powerful beasts–they look ferocious.

8

Wow! I love the first shot! The angle makes the turtle look immense and menacing. Between the claws, the moss on the shell, and the no nonsense look on its face, I would definitely not mess with it! I also enjoy the lifted front leg showing it has places to go.

9

Thank you :slight_smile: Yes, it was very ferocious and determined to reach its destination!

10

I love that first image, quite the beast! Kudos for getting low and highlighting the detail in the skin, the claws, and capturing the leg up in the air. Well done!

11

Great POV and really like the ground level shot! I may prefer some more canvas on top and RHS,
And not too happy about those sign boards on pole.

1 Like
12

Thanks a lot for the critique :slight_smile: