― Artistic Expression Critique ⇒ Magpie

[Duck]

[...] BUT... after the fact the analysis can even mathematically lay out chapter-and-verse why a particular composition stands out.

I agree. As you say, in the moment there is little time to think. It's all instinctual. While I can agree with his statement that he didn't know what he had, I'm sure he knew he had something. if anything a picture that would have been, "good enough for government work," as they say. I can only imagine his surprise as to how lucky his composition was and then later elated over the notoriety the image received. That part is never up to the photographer though.

[LindaShorey]

With my first dslr, and only an 18-55 mm kit lens, I had access to a large in-town garden with huge numbers of different plantings, and great photo ops 10 months of the year. I carefully composed and pre-visualized (light, shadow, exposure and dof) nearly all those images.

With my most active time using a super-zoom bridge camera it was all about grabbing "something" before the critter or bird disappeared or stopped doing what had caught my eye.

Then a Canon T3i with three lenses, and now the mirrorless duo: I started learning playful pp, influenced by several folks including Minnie. So in addition to the above examples, I also started "gathering pixels" - I adore that term of hers! - with the idea of exploring fanciful (or just bringing out something better than the conditions gave me at the time) once I was on the computer - sometimes with an idea in mind ahead of time, often not.

My photos on pM represent some of each of those types of situations, and probably more. The past 5 years have been a rich, fascinating and rewarding time with this joyful hobby.

[St3v3M]

... Your feedback regarding interest in the subject and pp would be appreciated.

The leaning pole, barbed wire, mound, and that incredible texture evokes Iwo Jima but it's the position of the bird's head, looking to the right that gives this balance. A look into the lean might have felt off balance where this feels right. The direction of the light, the softness of the tone, all add to the beauty of this image. I hope you continue with these! S-

[St3v3M]

...
My photos on pM represent some of each of those types of situations, and probably more. The past 5 years have been a rich, fascinating and rewarding time with this joyful hobby.

Five years and look how beautifully you see the world! S-

[LindaShorey]

Steve, thank you for your comments and encouragement!