Cliche: "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna' get."
by Bitz

Comment:
This image deserves a much higher score than it received.

Unlike CamelotNorth, I think the rose in a red vase is a nice addition. I think, in this case, it gives the image an unusual diagonal balance you don't often see even though it adds complexity.

Two Classics
by Jacko

Comment:
In judging I always give the three I think should be the winners my highest three scores. I figure if I can pick winners then I will recognize a winner when deciding my own submissions. This was one of my three picks.

Technical quality, meeting the challenge requirements and the stroke of genius to marry an unusual combination of "cliches" set this one apart from the others.

(For those who might be curious my other two choices this week finished 4th and 40th respectively. I'm still trying to figure out that last one)

Happy Valantine's day, dear!
by mirac

Comment:
The "still life" is the classic cliche for both painter and photographer. I wouldnt be surprised that the first photographic image were of a still life.

Stunning.

What you have done here is special. Red and green against black brings out the flower nicely. Couple that with good DOF, meticulous focus and lighting and you have a striking image.

The focus on the near "greenery" of the stem is a little distracting but this is a terrific picture. I hope some day I can do so well.

Excellant rendition of a classic cliche.

A warm nap
by decoteau

Comment:
Technically high quality image, good use of browns highlighting the cat.

Where tomorrow lies
by macrovipera

Comment:
Beautifully done!

house plant
by jjbeguin

Comment:
There are a lot of flower close ups, but few to match this one.

The framing is simply outstanding and the black background brings out the color of the bloom. The beaded water droplets finish this one off nicely. One mark of a good photographer is to make a shot look natural. I suspect effort was involved here. This is no snapshot.

DON'T touch my catnip ball..... or else....
by kosmikkreeper

Comment:
If this is your cat I hope you have good insurance. That's one scary lookin' feline!

You did a super job bringing that out, both in the way you cropped the image, your use of black and white and whatever you did in the "darkroom" to give the final image such a stark appearance.

Great job!

yellow tulips
by rjgardner

Comment:
Great color cominations make great pictures. This one is a great of example of that. The colors make it outstanding.

The Cliché Color: White
by a1leyez0nm3

Comment:
This image pays cathedral-like homage to snow picture cliches everywhere.

Cute as a Bugs Ear
by Sonifo

Comment:
I doubt I'll ever cease to be amazed by the incredible quality of images submitted for challenges week after week. There is some major talent out there and this artist is one of them.