Waiting to Pounce
by Chefboz

Comment by graphicfunk:
From the Critique Club
This is a wonderful concept and depending on effect desired it can be complete simply because it crosses the line into art. It is a backlight subject, but can not be really judged as such since the intent is strictly a visual, almost graphical effect.
We know spiders wait so I will even concede that aspect of the challenge. Since the execution is artistic it brings up an interesting and natural question. Did you push the rules to obtain it. There is a way to obtain a fade by using curves, but just how was this fade done. It must involve a selection and a processing step. Since the fade interferes with the extremeties of the feet I would have questioned its use or would have reduced the spider's size.
You have achieved a good effect if people who dislike spiders find the image repulsive. Those that can tolerate spiders will certainly give it a second look. Those into artistic interpretation will appreciate it most. You have good ideas and technique but you must always be on the alert to find the right target audience. Regardless, it is a good shot, the backlight leaves the front dark and mysterious and scarey.

Red or White -- It's all the same to me!
by Chefboz

Comment by jjenks:
brilliant idea

Red or White -- It's all the same to me!
by Chefboz

Comment by graphicfunk:
strong image.

Red or White -- It's all the same to me!
by Chefboz

Comment by Phileine:
it looks a bit too unnatural.

Red or White -- It's all the same to me!
by Chefboz

Comment by L1:
On my monitor, it looks like red and greenish-yellow. Interesting placement and reflections.

Santa Fe
by Chefboz

Comment by dr rick:
I love the low contrast "faded" look. I don't like the distracting border.

Santa Fe
by Chefboz

Comment by Count:
I like the black and white/sepia look to this one. I find the border somewhat distracting though. Nice crop on the image. I like that you've included the name... good job.

Waiting to Pounce
by Chefboz

Comment by blindjustice:
all in all quite nice- but I don't like
1. the size and shape of the picture
2. the oversharpened grainy slippery nature of the foor on the right.
wonderful lighting and feathering technique on the edges

Santa Fe
by Chefboz

Comment by wwwavenger:
Too much border.

Waiting to Pounce
by Chefboz

Comment by Philos:
Iiieeeeeeeeee. I don't like spiders at all....
I could never make a picture like this without crying for mammie!
Give you an 8.