three.jpg
by Lesya

Comment:
For me this is really quite bland. The focal point is uncertain and we're too far away from anything of interest. The three birds are scattered too wide to make their involvement in the shot particularly useful or impactful. While the view has some nice perspective, the light and colour make this quite dull. I'd certainly opt for mono with this.

birds.jpg
by Lesya

Comment:
Great focus, detail and a nice comp. I'd like to see what effect it would have had to focus on the furthermost gull, moving round slightly to the right.

Brazil Nut Tree
by Bud

Comment:
What a great scene - unusually appealing (which I confess I didn't expect from the thumb). I love that beautifully fragile tree and the serenity of the evening's conditions, while it looks like a storm in the distance.

The Path to a better Future
by RulerZigzag

Comment:
:: Hello from the Critique Club ::
............................................................

Well Tony, while I didn't vote or comment on this challenge, I have to say that your shot stood out a mile as a thumbnail - and it's no disappointment when viewed at full size.

This all goes without saying really but your photo is dynamic in its composition, colours and choice of focus. You've got some amazing lighting and you've processed it very well indeed. As a piece of stock photography it fits well enough for the a niche purpose, so no probs there either.

All in all, it's a great exposure, a strong, graphical subject and neat piece of memorable photography.

Cheers
Jon

Ascent
by zeuszen

Comment:
You've managed to capture that perfect moment where every sinew, muscle and tendon is at full stretch, yet despite this seemingly strenuous activity this [heron?] looks calm, peaceful and totally in command of its body and domain. Wonderful.

The Express
by Skip

Comment:
Really vibey - love it.

Rejoice Now Children
by Kylie

Comment:
I didn't read the description at first and found this image to be immediately optimistic and uplifting. It's very nicely lit and I love your choice of DOF.

COURAGE
by Rando D300

Comment:
Fantastic presence in this photograph. Most of us only see animals in zoos, but this is as good a capture of natural looking magnificence as I have seen in a while. Excellent light, composition and detail. Love it and faved.

Black and white
by Jinjit

Comment:
What a tactile looking image, I can just feel that skin. Your zebra is very different (not to mention more co-opertaive) than the on I just shot [photographed!] - he wouldn't show me his eye clearly!

I was quite shocked to see this was almost identical, so I must have subconsciously have echoed it I think. Your DOF is far preferable though.

venice by night
by tazza

Comment:
Beautifully clear shot - such still water too. Excellent.