Symmetry Sunset
by 777STAN

Comment:
The colours lead your eye straight to the van, which isn't what you want. I think there should be more foreground as in the rule of thirds.

Cactus
by Bobsizz_99

Comment:
I think the DOF is too shallow, only 1 small piece is in focus

1000th Challenge Collage
by SDW

Comment:
Outstanding! I can't imagine having the patience to do this. Way COOL!

SUPER Powers
by cup4tml

Comment:
The discolouration of Superman is caused by the glow of the laser, like it is being so pronounced on his head/face. It was overall the colour of his legs.
I'm being hurt again on another challenge on this DNMC thing. Lesson learned! Stick to the obvious because some people don't seem to put much effort in understanding the connection of some pictures to a challenge topic. There is no wonder there are a lot of pictures of the same thing during challenges. People are afraid to step out and use imagination. So, I'll be doing the same thing from now on. Thanks for the support.

Originally posted by rinac: Wow, those scores are a bit rough, eh? I realised pretty much straight away that it was a cut-out. Not hard to tell given the odd discolouration. With this in mind, it was easier for me to let go of doggedly trying to work out where the light was coming from, and enjoy what you had done with the laser. Guess others weren't as relaxed about it. The laser is not just the main light source, it's the only light source AND the main subject. Which means, Superman is rightfully the main subject as well, since HE IS the source of light, duh. The whole "not the main subject" issue, is really a bit over the top and I suspect bandied about by those who want to justify their vote. Sheesh people, just chill and enjoy the fun stuff for a change...

SUPER Powers
by cup4tml

Comment:
Thanks so much for the thoughtful and lengthy answer. You have inspired with your vote of confidence.
I had a feeling that DNMC was my problem. Little did anyone know that there was no sun, the blind in the room was closed and Superman looks to be lit with another light source. I thought the laser was the highlight of the photo as it was the only colour and it was truly the only light added to the picture. Looking back, if I hadn't exposed it for so long, with Superman darker, it would have made the laser stand out more as the main light source and main subject.
Oh well, live and learn. On to the next challenge. I've only been here a short while but I do like the challenges as it drives me to get better. I've only had my camera and really taken interest for about 8 months now so I'm not too surpised at low scores. I'm trying to do my best at absorbing everything about photography. I've recently upgraded to a pay account so I'll be around for awile. Thanks again.

Originally posted by Mambe: Hi Doug , During a challenge people normally vote and sometimes leave comments. I suppose that some have thought that your photo does not meet the challenge (DNMC) as the description was : "Create a photo in which your main light source is also your main subject. The challenge here is that your main subject should not be the sun.", applying strictly that to your photo they have vote low. To know why your photo has scored low, the best way is to open a forum thread under challenge results, including a link to the photo or a thumbnail and asking for comments and advices. It's a big international community, that means many opinions and many taste, but that doesn't mean that the majority is always right, that only shows what people prefer, a good example is the favorite you have. That's really great ! And also the 111 votes from 5 to 10. My advice : first be positive, second have a look at the entries with better results or winning entries from past challenges, take your time, study them (subject, lighting, editing etc.), third have a look at other photos and comment them, even in loud voice, try to point out what is wrong (cropping, colors, strong noise, oversharpening, etc) and finally return to your photo, imagine that you're not the photographer and comment your entry. It's a way to learn. I have had a look at your photos, you are good ! The photos are well done, you have the technique (I haven't), you know how to use the light, your photos are clean (= not fuzzy, no distracting elements, sharp focus). I hope to see soon more of your photos.

Woosh!!!
by mobster

Comment:
I love it. How many glasses did you go through to get this? A 10!

Morning Dew
by xakpeet

Comment:
Beautiful picture, a 10!

Stick Around
by k9logic

Comment:
stunning shot! just beautiful