Stretching
by Ja-9

Comment by idp:
very elegant - the tones work just right with the dof here - 8

Florida's Back County
by Ja-9

Comment by FrankRobinson:
Hi Ja-9! Welcome to the critique zone...

Overall, I would have to say that this shot does not match up to your usual standard. It doesn't communicate to me that you were trying to get something specific across and the technicals distract from the photos aesthetic appeal.

Technically: Your smallish depth of field focuses the eye on the right, but the actual focus isn't as tight as I would expect - or very possibly you have a little shake from being in the canoe at such a relatively slow shutter for the focal length - can the D80 not push the ISO a little more? The lighting is quite stark and gives huge contrast between the trunks and the water which doesn't really appeal to me.

Artistically: There is some thirds action here, but not knowing what I am supposed to be seeing, it is difficult to use this effectively. I also suspect that the theme being 'country life', the voters were expecting something more dynamic.

Overall, it is a pleasant enough scene, but I am very confident of your ability to represent it more strongly.

Stretching
by Ja-9

Comment by steve100:
Meets Challenge 9 Impact 8 Technicals 8 Processing 8 Creativity 8 Total (weighted) 8 Really like this shot , hope it does well.

Softly
by Ja-9

Comment by CNovack:
Another composition where the lighting and exposure are absolutely wonderful. Love the soft folds of white that capture the downy softness and beauty of this flower.

Serenity
by Ja-9

Comment by CNovack:
This is stunning....the waterlily looks like an explosion of color- as when a water drops and it fans out. To compliment the waterlily is that the lilypad also has vibrant color radiating out from it's center. Beautiful clarity and lighting is spot on. Congrats on high placement as well.

Serenity
by Ja-9

Comment by roz:
WOW janine .. this is amazing .. congrats on your great place in the fs ... reckon you'll be getting a ribbon in one soon ... awesome .., :)

Serenity
by Ja-9

Comment by pixelpig:
A jewel, or a comet. Clear & beautiful & sharp as knives. Looks like you're off to a very good start with LR3.

Serenity
by Ja-9

Comment by Art Roflmao:
WOWOW! I'm not a flower fan, but color and detail here are awesome. Congrats on top 20, Janine.

Serenity
by Ja-9

Comment by Denise:
Nice finish Janine! Beautiful image.

Serenity
by Ja-9

Comment by dswann:
Congrats on the high Free Study placement Janine. This is a super image!