Light vs. Dark - An Epic Battle
by fldave

Comment by truogre:
*Critique Club*
I really like the concept of this shot and the set-up is good. Unfortunately the execution is lacking somewhat.

While I like your shooting position(seems to be just the right distance from your foreground pieces), it might have been better centered between the dark king and queen and a bit more level, that way it keeps the viewer from feeling like they are "falling off" the right side.

The lighting on both sides of the board has resulted in blown highlights (on the right side it really hurts four chessmen). Perhaps raising the board by using clear glass jars or glasses - something to move the light farther away from the board. Might also use something to diffuse or soften the light (I use a couple sheets of wax paper)

The lighting on the right side also makes the board appear to have a large crack due to the glare.

The lighting on the clear pawns(from King to Queens Bishop) is great and I would think that raising the board and moving the lights would give that same effect on all of the clear pieces.

Good idea, just a little more work on the details

Russ

Solarchitecture
by fldave

Comment by Neilos888:
the bottom third seems to take my eye away from the great reflection in the top 2/3rds, i have to really try hard to look up. maybe a tighter crop would have fixed this.

Not a Pretty Picture
by fldave

Comment by talj:
Very sad but does really tell us all a story. I hope neither of those named are loved ones of yours...thanks for sharing

Solarchitecture
by fldave

Comment by cujee:
The trees are a bit distracting. If you wanted to include the trees they should be more symmetrical.

Not a Pretty Picture
by fldave

Comment by Denise:
I had a similar idea but couldn't get it done in time. I think this definitely tells a story and also leaves someone feeling something. 8

Not a Pretty Picture
by fldave

Comment by Dirt_Diver:
I have seen this before in a past picture. Not sure if it was you or not but I know I've seen it.

Not a Pretty Picture
by fldave

Comment by TygerPawz:
Love this one, it's the first one as I've been going through that I really felt has given a true story through the photo.

Not a Pretty Picture
by fldave

Comment by RiderGal:
This definitely tells a sad story. nicely done interpretation of the challenge.

Light vs. Dark - An Epic Battle
by fldave

Comment by klkitchens:
One of the better ones this challenge. Well done!

Light vs. Dark - An Epic Battle
by fldave

Comment by freakin_hilarious:
I like the concept, but the image itself doesn't do it for me. I feel like I'm sliding off the right side, the light is harsh, and the darks are quite noisy (which I like sometimes, but it doesn't help this shot).