Friends are Everythingby
denlinkbarmannComment by SteveJ: Greetings from the Critique Club.
A first challenge entry in the 'Light on White' challenge and a worthwhile score, but I think it just misses the challenge brief.
Technical:
I am surprised by the lack of shutter speed you achieved using ISO 200, and 18mm with an aperture of f4.5. From the angle I would have expected 1/200th at least as you were exposing into the sky, this normally ups the shutter speed dramatically. It would be interesting to know the actual lens used, but I am guessing at 18-55mm kit lens? possibly the Mk 1.
By upping the contrast you have bleached out the sky detail and also the trees at the base of the photo. This hasn't effected the subjects too much, although the girl's upper arms have blended with the sky. I also note there is some artifact in the top corners? Possibly branches overhead or even vignetting of your lens at its widest setting...were you using a lens hood?
Composition:
I like the ratio of the subjects to the background and the way they come into frame from the bottom left towards the centre. The subjects look well posed although the guy doesn't look quite as comfortable as the girl...but that is to be expected.
Overall:
It is a good photo with the setup appearing to be well thoughtout and staged. The title fits the picture, but the picture doesn't quite fit the challenge. The dark clothing does not convey light on white, in fact, the light has been obtained just by upping contrast and I would suggest brightness. It is hard to be over critical or harsh with this shot cos it just oozes happiness and fun. It scored about where it should have, maybe even a little generously as DPC votes are normally fickle about meeting challenges. As a first entry, I can see you improving in the future as you learn the whims of voters. However, keep that essense of fun, I hope this is helpful and constructive.
Steve
