Pining for the cedar
by snaffles

Comment:
I think you suffered for having a simple image in a challenge with so many visually powerful images. That said, I'll admit to voting this a 4. It just didn't grab me, the branches seem blurry, and the tight vertical shape didn't capture the grand feeling I have for the sky.

On the other hand, Don made it a favorite.

Simplicity can work for the broader voting audience, though. Look at BradP's entry, as well as his challenge entry "Solo."

Just accept you didn't hit the mark with most voters, decide whether you like it anyway, and keep shooting. :)

The eyes of truth are watching you
by Judi

Comment:
Judi, I'll explain my 4. I just didn't like it very much. It's definitely "photographic in nature," despite being a composite. It's just too busy. I really like the face in the clouds, but the hands, well, I don't. My tastes run to more hidden compositing vs. obvious.

Broken Trail
by B74A

Comment:
Ah, now I get it. That's a contrail, not a light trail. :)

Winter Solitude
by kirbic

Comment:
Wow, one of my 9s.

Well, now I know you can see the northern lights in WI.

Gilded
by skewsme

Comment:
Oooo - looks like you're going to be stuck with the Temporary Lack of Suck award this week. Congrats on the new personal best! :)

Surreal
by Gaby_G

Comment:
Congrats on the personal best and top 10! What a couple of months you've had. :)

72 Seconds of Northern Exposure
by Bugzeye

Comment:
WOW. What a great capture, story, and editing job. I was one of your 10s. I just LOVE the stars along with the aurora. What a way to spank your previous personal best score! Congrats!

My World
by timfythetoo

Comment:
Looks like I interpreted "photographic" differently from you, Tate, and most voters! Fair enough; now I'll know for the future. Congrats on your high score and finish! :)

Ghost Eye
by Jutilda

Comment:
What a fun shot! :) I love the focus on his eyes.

Early Morning on Planet Daydream
by tate

Comment:
Congrats, Tate, on the placement and your new personal best. You've certainly had a great autumn!

I guess you nailed the interpretation better than I did, so now I know for the future. :)