Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by paynekj:
This was my first challenge entry, I am pleased to see the all the comments are constructive. I have tried to act on some of the comments, the results of which can been seen here

Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by Gracious:
The background works just fine in my opinion. It supports the technical element introduced by the steel looking sharpener. I get the feeling that the pencil is being sharpened to perform and important function. No frills, just down to business.
The blue adds a touch of whimsie...a surprising bit of color. Of course the blue is essential to the challenge, but the way you incorporated it minimally works very well.
The pencil shaving is perfectly shaped. It lends a curve to the composition and is nicely placed well out of the center. The diagonal like leads right to that little bit of blue.
Two things I'd like to point out that may be improved upon. First is that I'd like to see this a little lighter. That could easily be improved in post-processing. The other thing is the couple of flecks of debris from the pencil. They are a minor distraction, but they do take away from the quality of the image.
OVerall, this is a fine picture. I love the simplicity of it and your execution is good.

Speed Reading
by paynekj

Comment by austinscott:
SUPRISINGLY I REALLY LIKE IT

Speed Reading
by paynekj

Comment by JamieWillmott:
Not enough blur on the pages to convey what is going on.

Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by Turbotech:
Nice touch but I do not think the lighting is that great. Looks a little dull. Get the point. LOL Wow I am on fire today.

Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by Kaz:
I like this, but I think it could be stronger with a plainer backround.

Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by PTLParsons:
Now this is very unique idea. One in a million. Great cmposition and fantastic execution. Gutsy to do it on the squares. But, in my opinion, that's just part of the whole unique idea. Very good job. Wish there was no shadow but we can't have everything exactly as we want it. Great job. One of the tops. PTL Like it so much I'm upping it to a 9.

Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by derekleung:
A good macro shot. You have captured the details well enough. Yet the tiled background does not only disctract the viewer but also does not complement to your subject. Overall 6.

Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by Anachronite:
give us more blue!
~anachronite

Peeling Blue
by paynekj

Comment by goodtempo:
closer up to the shaving would have been better, great subject just too far away, too much background.