About 10 Feet Awayby
DougPazComment: I'm back, what a week, I have problem with crashing computers eating ky reviews so my new tactic is to save it bit by bit. I'll let you know when it is done.
Hello from the Critique Club -
Do you know the hit song by Nellie? "I need two per (pairs)...Give me two per (pairs).. So I can go stompin' in my Er (air) Force Ones...." We now have a number one rap song about sport shoes (do we even call them sneakers anymore?). Yep, as you have captured here, shoes have become a symbol of a generation in American culture. That's why I just love the Uncle Sam legs. This photo is so much more than just a Where's Waldo joke. I suppose that they are headed for ebay adds another comment on today, doesn't it?
Are you surprised you placed so well? Or pleased? You had a bunch of shoes, everyone else thought you had an original idea. See, the thing is that everyone could relate.
Techincally your work is always very precise, even tight). the only problem that I can see is that your house is too beige, same problem as the dryer picture. How about some bright carpets? I agree that that bit of clutter down the hall detracts. That's why I asked if you were surprised. If you had know that a bit of laundry in the corner would keep you from a ribbon I'm sure you would have tacked a piece of posterboard over the doorway. Okay- to repeat myself and others. Your camera work is impeccable, the focus is always perfect. You never over process. Your focus is always right on. your DOF is impressive here. Lighting is lovely, right down to the precise little toe shadows. Colors are true, white balance is white.
Composition is also very precise. Main leading line is the diagonal that leads the viewers eyes up the line of shoes right past the sneaky Waldo. I had to do a quick brake and reverse to come back to him. Repeating shoes create stompin' rythym, all neatly tied in a row. The toe tapping shadows mirror the row of stationary marchers. The designes on the shoes, particularly the N which is well placed, break up the monotony of the endless shoes. And of course Waldo's vertical stripes contrast both in design and color.
What more can I say? Nice photo. Really nice photo. But I like the one of the two kids in the chair much better! I know why too! Your photography is sooo tight and so controlled. You might be at a bit of an impasse. You can't get any better technically. Those little cuties can't be controlled so you are forced to loosen up when you photograph them. It's good for your work, I think. Let them lead you to a new level.
And now for the disclaimer: Please remember that this is just my own opinion and I am not an expert of any kind.
Message edited by author 2003-02-24 16:46:30. 
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