I know it takes more time to give suggestions than just affirmations, but I am eager for constructive criticism. I'd be happy to agree to offer that to any of my followers who ask for it in exchange for them giving it to me.
This is another shot from my weekend photoshoot. I love how they took off when a boat came close. Wish I'd shot it with more headroom though.
Ok, Jane here you go...and feel welcome to give me constructive criticism anytime as well:-) I like the overall colors of the image and the frozen motion of the Bufflehead. I think you are right about it needing more headroom. I think the duck behind is a bit distracting. Also, it would have been nicer if the water splashes were more in focus, perhaps a broader DOF?
Wow I thought Vee was seeing things or I was blind but she is dead right!!! Nor distracting though as I didn't see it!! Perhaps a bit more water in front of the duck but I am nit picking really!! Good action shot Jane.
it's an excellent shot Jane - there was something about the duck that I couldn't quite put my finger on...and Vee could be right about a second duck which is why the main duck looks "busier" than I would expect...that having said, your focus on the front duck is great and you've captured the motion really well. Great job
Wow. Good eye, Vee! I think the story here is the splashes of water behind the duck, even if there is one row too many. There are plenty of duck photos out there, but not many with these splashes. So.... I don't mind the short space in front of the duck. I enjoy the foot position, too. I think these guys sort of windmill their feet during take-off, and this tells the story. This is a tough photo to nail the sharpness, and that is probably the weakest part of the photo. Feel free to critique my photos any time.
As you said, a little more headroom would have been nice, but you got the nice splashes on the other end, so that makes up for that. Plus the focus on the duck is spot on which is the most important thing about this shot.
Brilliant action shot! Love the water splashes! The composition works for me as you can tell where the action has come from by the splashes behind. I remember participating in a challenge last year that focussed on this concept and this can work really well.
Magical splashes here Jane! What wonderful focus and timing! and that is a seriously short exp time!!! As Ross says I think the splashes are what make it stand out from an ordinary take off shot! A wider DOF will solve most problems and if you could persuade the ducks to take off one by one rather than simultaneously then you'll have nailed front page of Nat Geo!
I just learned something from Vee! Thank you:) @vskolnik. I often have trouble getting everything in focus. This is a great action shot, Jane. I love the reflections!
For me I just love it. The water splashes are superb. Everyone has given you great help, 365 is so great. I also welcome any critique, it's always helpful.
