Natural Disguise... a rock?by
gpalosComment by taterbug: Greetings from the Critique Club,
Well, this is your entry in the 'Master of Disuise' challenge. I think you've met the challenge well. Nature offers up many masters of disguise, and you've definitely put that into play here. Fits the challenge very well.
My first impression of the shot is that you've met the challenge well, and the technicals are ok. You've used good dof. The subject is interesting and you've captured him in a good natural surrounding. Yes, I like the expression on his face. He does seem to be smiling :-) Lighting seems to be fairly level, although there is a bit of a hot spot along his back, but I don't feel that is major.
Your post processing doesn't seem too bad. Maybe a little usm, if you haven't already applied it would be nice. The image does seem just a wee bit flat, but by your comments, that is probably due to the lighting/exposure. And it's not too bad, it might even be a matter of taste.
I think compositionally, the image comes up just a little short of it's potential. I think the centered comp in this case is lacking dynamics. If you had framed the frog off centered, maybe close to a thirds intersection, I think it could have been a much stronger presentation. For one thing, it would have brought into play some nice leading lines I think from the branches, and given a nice way to lead the viewer across the photo. Also, as a couple commenters touched on, this would have added a little interest and allowed the audience to pause a bit longer on the image.
Overall, not a bad shot. Definitely meets the challenge, and ok interest factor. I think a dynamically stronger composition would have given a noticeable boost to your score.
If you have any questions or comments or anything, please feel free to pm me.
happy shooting,
taterbug :-)
Photographer found comment helpful.