California Hillsideby
myceliumComment by zeuszen: While I would appreciate some sort of a visual anchor in most images, I'm not looking for a defined focal point as a prerequisite for a good photo. The anchor, here, is clearly and amply provided by the diagonal row of shadowed trees which intersect the rounding meadow, so perfectly kempt by a full tonal range of light and detail. The contrast this paints is stark, utterly dynamic and further amplified by the depths and pitch of the slope(s).
The exposure is so dead-on, so trimmed on the texture, shape and expanse of the ground (and, to a lesser degree, on the tree crowns), that there is very little room to consider the dark verticals and diagonals the row of trunks create anything but ordering elements.
I find this image remarkable and exciting, not only because of the eye behind the camera, which recognized the extraordinary potential of this scene, but also for its disarmingly uncontrived composition.
The balance achieved here, between light and dark, is a fine poise indeed, yet there is no impression of manipulation or imposition on part of a photographer.
To me, this photograph meets the topical demands of the challenge
creatively first of all. The technical accomplishments are there, but they are there quietly, subordinated to locale, subject and a photographic manner sensitive to such things.
The score it drew here is a negligible abomination, in my view.
Message edited by author 2005-03-14 12:06:50. 
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