Face to Face amid inward splendor
by SDW

Comment by pcody:
I saw the thread about negative, umm.. constructive comments so, since I'm free for a moment, I thought I'd stop by. I picked this one because of the score.
The score mostly reflects, to me, a lot of people thinking you didn't meet the challenge enough. To get that many 4's on a picture that is in focus and not controversial usually means it lacks a strong connection to the challenge discription.
The lighting looks harsh with sharp shadows on the main flower and most of the other flowers are obscured. The frame is cluttered with things that detract from the beauty of the one bloom. A closer crop would have eliminated all of that. My suggestion is to look at the scene thru the viewfinder and ask yourself if something supports the idea you are trying to capture. If it isn't supporting it, it shouldn't be in the frame.

Dark Shadows
by SDW

Comment by BAMartin:
This is just a phenomenal photograph.

182635W.jpg
by SDW

Comment by BAMartin:
This is an interesting photograph on many levels. It is almost abstract, in that the shapes and colors are the strongest visual elements. In a way it seems almost over-saturated which gives it an other worldly flavor, like walking into someones dream. Sorry I could not think of any "negatives" to say about this particular shot.

182635W.jpg
by SDW

Comment by nova:
This is phenomonally vibrant. Good job.

Abstract Memory
by SDW

Comment by glad2badad:
Nice choice of composition. I like the soft feel and the deep contrast.

182635W.jpg
by SDW

Comment by suemack:
The combination of the lovely composition and beautifully rich colours make this image really stand out. Would look great framed on a wall.

Rage
by SDW

Comment by Neil:
Wonderful shot Scott! In my favs.

Dark Shadows
by SDW

Comment by SJCarter:
I'm not trying to barrage you with e-mails, but not only did I grow up LOVING the Dark Shadows soap opera, this shot is a PERFECT reflection of it. Very well done - I've added it to my Favorites with a great deal of satisfaction! What a great shot!!! WOW

Back in Time
by SDW

Comment by Arcanist:
Like this a lot SD, never got to see the other ones, but the pastellish coloring seems to soften the mood and 'feels' older than an oversaturated strong coloring would. I really like the crop and the fact that there are no 'Hey I'm Lower than the subject' distortions that would make the image fall away from the viewer.

Only thing I would try is maybe a bit more USM, but then again halos would really suck on this image. Nice Job!

Dark Shadows
by SDW

Comment by langdon:
That's terribly impressive. Is this a tight crop or wide enough that you could get an 12x8 or 10x8 out of it? :)