Natural Woman
by heida

Comment:
Simply gorgeous. The model is stunning, the pose is beautiful and the lighting/shadows/contrast are striking. The eye is naturally drawn to her face and wants to linger over every detail. A brilliant capture and surely will be in the running for the top 10 in this challenge.

An eye on the cider press.
by jjbeguin

Comment:
A truly sensational portrait, but I wonder if the shadows are just a bit too deep. His face is clearly the most expressive element in the composition and it may be just a bit too indistinct.

A Study in Color
by HRoxas

Comment:
Magnificent capture. The blue background is a perfect choice. The pepper looks almost as if you had waxed it. Not a speck of dust or any other distracting elements. A beautiful, simple, and very profound shot. One of my top picks for this challenge.

Warmth
by joanns

Comment:
There are some outstanding portrait entries in this challenge, but this one may be the best. Your model is beautiful, her expression is natural and mysterious, the composition is wonderful and the lighting is perfect.

Graceful Departure
by connie

Comment:
Extremely beautiful sunset (rise?) and wonderful capture of the crepuscular rays. I also like the way you've captured the gentle curve of the beach. An outstanding photo, but unfortunately, it does not really stand out from the pack.

The Guitarist
by timj351

Comment:
Or perhaps "bassist, but who knew? Nice effect with the BW and grain. I also like the tightness of the crop. Really good photo.

Just Another Day in Beantown
by Tuckersmom

Comment:
I love this picture but it would have been better if you couldn't see the corner line of the background.

Surface
by Amason

Comment:
As DPC astro shots go, this is one of the better moons I've seen. That said, it's pretty much over-sharpened, but I don't think most voters are going to mind. As for the challenge, I think I see your point, but I think it's a bit of a stretch for the challenge, and will probably be voted down accordingly. I give you a 6 because I know it's not easy to get a good shot. I'll be anxious to see if you used a telescope or a zoom lens.

Spokes & Gears
by Artyste

Comment:
An interesting idea but one that falls compositionally short. A more interesting angle, something unusual in the lighting or shadows, a macro or a more compelling crop - any of these ideas might have taken this "good photo" and turned it into a compelling entry.

Fire Ant Bites 36 Hours Later
by Mark of SRQ

Comment:
OMG! Those are some ugly...!