Bee Macro 2
by Konador

Comment:
Fantastic clarity on this macro. But he's dead, isn't he? Trust me, it's no crime (unless you killed him - although I guess that's not technically one either!), I'm becoming a master of posing the dead things I find in the yard every day! LOL In all honesty, the pose does look a bit flat - only in that he doesn't look very lively. The detail, lighting, & color are dead-on (pun intended). [And please forgive me if this poor little guy was really alive and coherent when these shots were transpiring.] Bottom line - very good shot, but there does seem to be something intangible lacking.

End of a Nautical Day
by JPR

Comment:
I remember this very well from the challenge - thought it was great then too. My only minor complaint is that the horizon is horizontal (it's off just a tad) and given the composition and artistic nature, I think it should be. Just my opinion, but the image stands strong as is (I scored it an 8).

A Light at the End
by JPR

Comment:
It just dawned on me that you shot this... I just have to reiterate that this IMHO is one of the most underrated shots on the entire site. There is so much emotion and artistry here that it boggles the mind. Sure, it's dark and disturbing, but aren't some of our strongest thoughts?!?! I knew there was something missing when I reviewed my Favorites list yesterday - this was it. Truly a superb, award-winning image. Kudos...

Fishing for Worms
by JPR

Comment:
Very cool shot. I didn't completely appreciate this shot during the challenge, as I only scored it a 5, forgive me, I was still a newbie! But in retrospect (I know - little consolation at this point) I think this image has a lot of merit. I've only now finally gotten the whole "fishing for worms" aspect (okay, I'm blonde - WTF!) and the expression is priceless. If I had it to do over, you would have definitely scored a 10 with me (and I ain't just whistlin' Dixie!). The lighting, focus, composition and intelluctual aspects are all great - I just missed them first time around. Cool shot - keep 'em coming!

Startled
by cheekymunky

Comment:
First, I think this is a great pose and a very striking image. Second, there are several things that stand out to me as areas that could possibly be improved. One, the clean crisp edges of the canine almost seem surreal - they could probably be blended a bit (with a blending brush of about 2-3 pixels width) to make the image flow more smoothly - this of course from someone who just got NAILED for their processing of an image. Two, the eyes seem surreal - almost painted on. I think that the processing there could be toned down a touch. Three, the focus of the animal versus the focus of the grass seem to conflict around the animal's placement. It could just be me (it wouldn't be the first time!), but it seems like these two aspects have been processed separately and with different perspectives in mind. IMHO, (and I have an AWFUL time with this, trust me) getting all of the elements of a single shot to coalesce into a cohesive unit is not an easy task. Especially when dealing with the pressures of a site like this with comments like "the color needs a bump", "you've over sharpened", "needs more contrast", "dodge & burn more", etc.). Four, I think that the canine would benefit from some of these "frequently recommended" techniques. I think you could really make this image pop a lot more, BUT it is a strong statement on its own (currently). You decide whether or not to implement any of my (or anyone else's) suggestions.

PS: Sorry for rambling...

Bluebells at Clyne II
by cheekymunky

Comment:
Wow - what a picturesque scene. I think that you could really make it pop with some more contrast, color sat, and a bit of burning. This is truly a remarkable shot - the composition, subject matter, interest is all there - it just needs a little boost IMHO.

dabblebeauty.jpg
by theSaj

Comment:
There aren't many shots that can withstand, much yet benefit from, processing/filters such as this, but this one is the exception to the rule. This image really comes alive in this format. The flowing lines and emotion are wonderful and completely augmented by the presentation of the shot. Great job! The colors, lighting, composition, all come together beautifully here. My newest Favorite.

IMG_4644.jpg
by strangeghost

Comment:
OMG - This is such a fantastic shot, I can't believe no one has commented on it before. It is very reminiscent of a challenge entry (not sure if it's yours or not, but I think it probably is). Wonderful anticipation captured here - you're just waiting for the moment when the action/kill is most opportune! I do think that the image would benefit from reducing the backlighting/increasing contrast/burning the brighter areas a bit. You have amazing detail on the bird and surroundings - the DOF is perfect. I just think you could capitalize on it even further by making it pop with some deep, rich (almost surreal) tones.

The Mumbles Lighthouse I
by cheekymunky

Comment:
I know this sounds cliche (especially given some of the recent forum threads), but I really think this would look great with a lot of burning to increase the depth and breadth of colors/contrast. I think it would increase the visible detail and overall "gloomy & desolate" feel that the shot seem to want to convey. I don't want you to think that I'm all about everyone making all of their shots look more like Heida's or Joey Lawrence's, but in this particular instance, I think a bit of those "stylized" aspects could really enhance this image. Don't get me wrong - it's a beautiful shot as is.

Hundred Reasons - Colin Doran
by cheekymunky

Comment:
Wow - what a horribly unflattering and yet attractive shot this is! :-) You captured some great emotion here. Love the "live" feel this has and the colors & lighting.