The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
It wouldn’t have been the same without the seagull obliging with its presence.
Specific Feedback
The “Hat” is pretty black. I tried it with the shadows lightened up a bit, but I found it distracting from the overall feeling of the image. What do you think?
Technical Details
Sony A7rM2
1/2000, f/11, ISO 100 at 39mm
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Connie, the black “wizard’s hat” fits the rest of the scene well. I assume there was significant overcast to let you have the sun in the frame without it totally blowing out the sky, which is good use of the lighting conditions. Yes, the seagull makes a great tassel on the hat. Pretty amazing how something so small makes such a large difference.
Connie, I agree, the seagull really brings something extra to the image. Without it, the scene might feel more static, but that small figure up top adds a nice sense of scale and life to the rock formation.
On the technical side, I think you’re right to keep the shadows dark. Lightening up the shadows would risk pulling attention away from the clean silhouette, which is what makes this shot so striking. The sharp contrast between the black of the “hat” and the sun directly behind it gives the scene a strong, almost otherworldly mood, so it works to leave the shadows deep. The way you’ve framed this makes the seagull almost like a crown on top of the formation, adding a delicate but important element without overwhelming the main focus. Very nice!
