“Shot through the glass at Edinburgh Zoo.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Having a snack 1 week 2 days ago
“Shot through the glass windows at Edinburgh Zoo.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on In thought 1 week 2 days ago
“I love this!”
Kieran Carey made a comment on inside a soapy bubble 1 month 1 week ago
“Well done sir”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on fruit 1 month 3 weeks ago
“Like the feel,of this.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Lantern 1 month 3 weeks ago
“Well done Nick”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Five-a-Day 1 month 3 weeks ago
“yep - it seems to have loaded ok although the preview was heavily cropped...”
Nick Kenton made a comment on Still Life workshop with Elly Russell 1 month 3 weeks ago
“Hi owen just posted and it seems to post as a landscape ok”
Alex Binnie made a comment on Still Life workshop with Elly Russell 1 month 3 weeks ago
“Im having the same problem image size is 1600 x 1054 and it uploads as a square image”
Alex Binnie made a comment on Still Life workshop with Elly Russell 1 month 3 weeks ago
“Try and post it and see what gets posted.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Still Life workshop with Elly Russell 1 month 3 weeks ago
“When I do that, it crops it down to a square (even though the original rectangular photo seems to be within pixel limit). Is that supposed to happen?”
Nick Kenton made a comment on Still Life workshop with Elly Russell 1 month 3 weeks ago
“After you have chosen the file, make sure you click upload. Then click save.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Still Life workshop with Elly Russell 1 month 3 weeks ago
“Thanks for organising this - really enjoyable and informative! I have tried to upload a couple of images but I keep getting a message to reduce the photo size even though it seems to be within the allowed dimensions (my photos show as 1600 x 1200 on my PC). I am probably being dim, but maybe a quick tutorial at the next club night might be handy? On the fruit photos, I found that those I shot at F22 showed every speck of dust, whereas at 2.8 these were invisible and the fruit still seemed to be in focus....good to learn these things! ”
Nick Kenton made a comment on Still Life workshop with Elly Russell 1 month 3 weeks ago
“Image 3 is simple and tells a story, but many of the other images have too muchinformation to bring out the key theme of the portfolio. Images 4 and 5 have similar content,whereas there may have been other parts of the tractor that might have provided a morecompelling subject. The lighting under which these images were taken is quite flat, and itmay have been worth revisiting this subject under different lighting conditions where thecolours and detail could have been brought out to emphasise specific areas and give theviewer more defined focal points.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Mediations on Aging - Image 5 2 months 6 days ago
“A similar image to the previous one where the main subject is the side mirror, on it’srusty mounting. Exposure and focus are well handled. the trees reflected in the windowsadd an abstract quality to the image.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Mediations on Aging - Image 5 2 months 6 days ago
“Here the photographer is showing us another detail of the tractor, in this case thewindscreen wiper. The light and exposure is handled well, and all appropriate parts ofthe image are sharp. Unfortunately the framing has cut off the top of the wiper. The baseof the windscreen covered in moss provides a base to the image, however there is quitea lot of negative space to the right which doesn’t contribute to the subject. In the themeof the portfolio there is very little rust in this study!”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Mediations on Aging - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“This exposure of this image taken inside the tractor has been well handled to capturedetail inside and retaining colour and contrast in the clouds. The portrait format workswell with the subject, but there is no specific part of the scene that holds the viewersattention. Most of the interest is in the lower half of the frame, we are naturally drawn tothe brighter area of sky looking out to the front - which is where we would naturally belooking if we were driving.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on mediations on Aging - Image 2 2 months 6 days ago
“This is a strong image where the photographer has concentrated on a specific part ofthe tractor, producing a symmetrical image which contrasts the decay, corrosion andstaining with the better preserved areas of the lights. The few decayed leaves add moreinterest, and their colour harmonises well with the rust.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Mediations on Aging - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“This image shows details of an old rusting engine. The subject is sharp, and exposurehas been set to give detail in the shadows, but this has resulted in a blown out area ofsky. The letterbox format emphasises a slight curvature of the subject which may be aresult of the photographer being quite close to the subject.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Mediations on Aging - Image 1 2 months 6 days ago
“Five different studies of lighthouses, four of which may challenge our preconceptions andpresent a new interpretation to the viewer. Shooting structures against the sky is achallenge for getting correct exposure and in most cases the photographer has succeeded.However where post processing has been used then it should not be apparent, as may bethe case in one or two of these images. Image 5 is the weakest and does not meet thestandard of the others. It is also a different type of structure, which doesn’t go along withpresenting something different to the viewer.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Lighthouses - Image 5 2 months 6 days ago
“A more traditional style of lighthouse is presented here - in a composition where theleading lines of the track through the heather takes the viewers eye up the foregroundcolours are quite saturated in contrast to the very bright and almost featureless sky upto the horizon and lighthouse itself. There is a strange colour cast to this image, the skyhas been overexposed possibly because the camera has been metering off the largearea of darker foreground.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Lighthouses - Image 5 2 months 6 days ago
“In this study we have a lead in from the bottom right taking us up towards the base of aramp, which then leads to the vertical element of the lighthouse, which occupies the tophalf of the frame. The foreground yellow colour is quite saturated and slightlyoverpowers the yellow colour of the building. It also competes strongly with the redcolour of the light housing, and as we know, our eyes tend to be drawn to red elementsin an image. The lighting is quite flat, with virtually no shadows; exposure has beencompetently handled.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Lighthouses - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“For the first time in this portfolio we can see a lighthouse in a position adjacent to thesea. This is a well captured image, with appropriate sharpness and depth of field. Wehave foreground, mid ground and background elements although these are fairlyindistinct. Exposure in bright conditions is controlled, although there is a slightly darkerarea of sky immediately adjacent to the right of the lighthouse, suggesting that somepost processing has been undertaken maybe to reduce the intensity of the highlights.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Lighthouses - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“A competent study of a small lighthouse where the photographer has concentrated onthe light enclosure. The subject is prominent, sharp, and supported by a foreground.Two small observations - there is a very slight light halo area around the structure,noticeable at the top, the light is not vertical, as we can tell from the horizontal deck.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Lighthouses - Image 1 2 months 6 days ago
“Overall.A varied set of subject which with the exception of Image 4 show a connection with thecycling event. Interestingly, Apart from the banners we have no sharp images ofcompetitors, and the set of images has the feel of capturing the surroundings and showingthe fleeting presence of the competitors, a theme which could be developed further.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Tour de France - Image 6 2 months 6 days ago
“A very well observed moment which has a slight sense of humour with the contrastbetween the banner for the TdF and a local cyclist, perfectly positioned between therailing and the drainpipe. The scene has a high dynamic range, from the shaded wallclosest to us to the bright sunlight on the road and this area has lost details in theFooter 31brighter areas. In this type of scene it is often better to underexposed to retain detailand colour in the brighter areas as the shaded areas can more easily be brightened.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Tour de France - Image 6 2 months 6 days ago
“It takes a courageous photographer to place an image not a portfolio where there are noin focus elements, which is what we have here. However this image certainly capturesthe feeling of having the riders cycling towards you and conveys a sense of their speedthrough use of a slower shutter speed. My only comment would be that having a mainsubject in a lighter outfit would add a different feel to this image.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Tour de France - Image 5 2 months 6 days ago
“A competently taken photograph of this sign on the side of a building, with somepleasant amber colours coming from the walls. When presenting images of buildingsthat are taken looking upwards, consider straightening the verticals unless this issomething that forms an intrinsic art of the composition. With this scene it is difficult toknow what the photographer specifically intends to show us; it sits uncomfortablybetween an image which isolates a few contrasting and interesting details and a fullblown street scape.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Tour de France - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“An image which gives a real sense of dynamic to what may have been a fairly standardscene. The main focus point is the bicycle wheel top centre which is sharp. Imageworks well with the strong diagonals. Maybe tone down the bright yellow car to the right hand side.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Tour de France - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“This shot captures these performers well as the presumably celebrate the arrival of theriders. Shutter speed, focus and depth of field are appropriate, and we have somemovement from some of the players adding dynamism. There is a good juxtapositionbetween the girl at the back centre banging away whilst her colleagues are jumpingwith their arms in the air. This section tells most of the story within the bigger story, sothink about how to emphasise this by cropping out superfluous element such as thepillar on the left, and the girl on the right who is not part of the group.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Tour de France - Image 2 2 months 6 days ago
“Overall this is a fascinating look at an historical event, and the presentation of slightlygrainy images fits well with the gritty, street protest, narrative.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on protest - Photojournalism 1972 - Image 6 2 months 6 days ago
“The final image is perhaps the least successful - whilst the subject and story are readilyapparent it is too noisy and confusing - the ladies looking down on the crowd are just toosmall in the frame to really draw your attention, and the crowd in front is too indistinct todiscern who they are and what they are doing.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on protest - Photojournalism 1972 - Image 6 2 months 6 days ago
“The next image carries a strong message and was looks like it was taken at close rangeusing a flash. The exposure has been well handled to control the highlights, of which thereare very few, and we can see the character of the rearmost policeman in his expressiontowards the person they are restraining.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Protest - Photojournalism 1972 - Image 5 2 months 6 days ago
“Image 4 where we now have Mrs Thatcher in amuch brighter presented image. There is a sense of engagement as she is looking towardsthe camera and looks like she is about to say something. Perhaps a slight crop to removethe object at the right hand edge could be applied. Nevertheless this is a very strong imageshowing the character of the subject well.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Protest - Photojournalism 1972 - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“pen next.Image 3 goes to the heart of the protest, where we engage directly with some people in themarch. There is an almost religious feel to this image, created by the appearance, postureand positioning of the centre right person under the banner. Working on the principle of oddFooter 22numbers, removing the left hand quarter of the frame could reinforce this by moving themto the centre. The darker colour palette reflects the conditions that we saw in the firstimage, and this is in complete contrast to Image 4 where we now have Mrs Thatcher in amuch brighter presented image. ”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Protest - Photojournalism 1972 - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“This is a portfolio of photographs which were taken on film and which have been presentedas a set of digitised images. For this reason it would not be right for me to necessarilyconsider the techniques used as the digitising process may have had some effect on thefinal output, and this would also be dependent on how much cleaning up may or may nothave been carried out. Images 3, 4 and 5 tell the main part of the story very well.The first image shows a self portrait of the photographer taken in a mirror, holding a Zenith-E camera, which is interesting but not really part of the protest. Nevertheless it has anostalgic quality, and would benefit from some cleaning up.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Protest - Photojournalism 1972 - Image 1 2 months 6 days ago
“The image sets the scene - it is a well observed moment where the two ladies are holding aconversation almost oblivious to the approaching protest. There is still some distancebetween the two groups, and it may well have been that the ‘decisive moment’ cameshortly afterwards. Nevertheless it acts to give a sense of the calm before what mayhappen next.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Protest - Photojournalism 1972 - Image 2 2 months 6 days ago
“There are some very promising images in the portfolio. We have a variety of subjects andsettings, taken in some different light conditions. Where you have images of differentquality, such as the first and last, then be ruthless in which ones you include. Images 2, 3, 5and 6 are the strongest set. Images 5 and 6 set the standard that you should be aiming for,and we can see this also in the female grouse in image 2.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Grouse - Image 6 2 months 6 days ago
“This image of a black grouse demonstrates my previous point. Because we do not seethe whole bird, the composition makes the image about the bird itself, and not how itsits in the environment. A very well executed image, sharp, clean background, good eyecontact, taken at eye level, shows character of the subject, no processing artefacts.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Grouse - Image 6 2 months 6 days ago
“ A well executed shot of a capercaillie in a woodland setting. Well exposed, withappropriate depth of field, and the eye perfectly in focus. The head is placed slightly tothe left of centre, and there is space for the bird to move into. However we have lost thevery right of the bird. In this situation it may be better to have a little less unoccupiedspace, allowing the viewer to concentrate on the bird’s head and itself, rather thantrying to create a more traditional composition where the bird is a subject with thescene. Beware following the centre focus point and placing it on the eye when close toyour subject.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Grouse - Image 5 2 months 6 days ago
“Here we have a head on shot of a ptarmigan flying directly towards the photographer,who has done well to keep the focus on the bird’s head and eye. The motion of thewings and diagonal positioning add dynamic to the scene, which is reinforced by theout of focus foreground and background. Unfortunately, these areas show somechromatic artefacts, and appear to be more a result of post-processing than ofphotographic technique.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Grouse - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“Again we have an image of two birds, this time ptarmigan, showing their transition tosummer plumage. Taken in bright sunlight as we can see from the strong shadow, thephotographer has controlled the exposure of the whites well, retaining detail in thefeathers. We are just starting to lose sharpness on the rear bird, however thebackground is kept well blurred, to isolate the subjects. Our attention is drawn to thered head areas of the female, and this is important because without them, and noseparation between the two birds, the viewer would find it difficult to know where tofocus.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Grouse - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“A strong set of images which show excellent technique and use of light. When presentingthe final composition, consider how essential it is to always include the setting sun - forexample does its position in image 1 distract from the main subject, and does it add to thestory in image 2? Also, think about balancing the contrast across the images, image 2 hasa very different ‘feel’ to the rest of the portfolio, but could work as presented as a stand-alone photograph.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Contre-jour on the Chobe - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“Another well executed photograph both in technique and subject. The light reflected onthe water, the small pool of splashes under the trunk, and the water dripping from theelephant’s mouth add detail to an image which relies on shape and tonality to set thescene. There is an interesting use of negative space which has no distractions andfunctions in exactly that way; the position of the setting sun, its reflection and theFooter 11elephant brings these elements together. Compare this with how the sun was positionedin the first image in this portfolio.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Contre-jour on the Chobe - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“A beautiful study of a heron at sunset. In contrast to the previous image here we havesome much darker tones and the sun out of sight behind the clouds providing interest inthe sky. We can see cloud shapes and shafts of light. The subject is well placed, withthe head about one third of the way up the frame, and with space to move into. A keypart of this image is the separation between the head and the scenery in thebackground. Maybe consider removing the small red reflection just behind the bird’shead?”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Contre-jour on the Chobe - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“Another very well taken image which has added interest by the dust that is capturingthe orange light and the slight backlighting on the antelopes. They are sharp, and wehave engagement with the viewer from the two directly looking at the camera.Appropriate use of depth of field has thrown the background sufficiently out of focus,and we have the foreground, mid ground and background elements that give depth tothe scene. The image may benefit from a little more contrast as there are no really blacktones, and perhaps a little more foreground would add balance. Alternatively, is itessential to include the sun?”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Contre-jour on the Chobe - Image 2 2 months 6 days ago
“A classic image of some birds flying toward a sunset. A very well taken image presentedin a letterbox format, giving the birds space to move into, with a narrow foregroundproviding a base to the scene. Aesthetically you may consider making the horizon level;Footer 9although the image as presented may be true to life, there aren’t any foreground cluesas to how the ground is oriented which would give the viewer confidence that it shouldrise up to the right.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Contre-jour on the Chobe - Image 1 2 months 6 days ago
“This set of images were not what I expected from the title of the portfolio. Certainly the first twoappear to fit in with the title, however the interior shot does not really convey a particular sense ofplace and I think most of us would find it hard to identify the location. The fourth image does notallow an easy understanding or interpretation of the subject. Think about viewpoints, andpresentation - ensure horizons are level. Most importantly, select a set of images that fit with yourtitle and leave no ambiguity. There is nothing wrong with shots of well known sights - yourobjective should be to present them in a new way that surprises the viewer.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Colourful capitals of Europe - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“An interior shot with few obvious clues that this is set in a colourful capital. Difficultexposure conditions with dark clothing and a very bright illuminated background, whichhas come out overexposed. The main point of interest is the seated person in thedistance, and we are led there by the direction in which the person in the foreground islooking. An imbalance between the dark right side and bright left side does not assistthe composition, and the ceiling areas don’t add to the story.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Colourful capitals of Europe - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“Street scene dominated by two elements - the colourful umbrellas and the white parasolover the table. Sharp, possibly slightly overexposed against the sky, as the buildings inthe background are slightly washed out. Small light on left is distraction. Viewpoint iscentral down the street, and image captured at head height, looking slightly up.Footer 6Pedestrians cut off at knees…. Faces are a strong visual draw and the couple walkingtowards us and gentleman on his phone hold the viewers interest. How does this differfrom other images possibly taken by loads of tourists?”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Colourful capital of Europe- Image 2 2 months 6 days ago
“A centrally placed colourful statue in a city environment. Good use of depth of field toisolate the subject from the background, and subject is sharp. Image well exposed.Tightly framed at the top, ideally need to see all of the staff. Subject is slightly offcentre , and we have the line of lights leading in from the left taking the eye up to thebackground. Think about composition - subject is not at apex of the street so could weplace it on the left third by slightly different viewpoint and cropping. Tricky environment- possibly remove the only cable between the viewer and the statue.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Colourful capitals of Europe - Image 1 2 months 6 days ago
“Overall.A varied selection of images showing a variety of action, a portrait and a behavioural scene,and not a single bird on a stick! Photographer is also working both in colour andmonochrome and I think presenting the seagull as a B&W image was a good choice. A setof difficult subjects - consider where you are focussed to improve sharpness, look at thebest techniques to avoid introducing noise, and where possible make use of the‘composition’ and framing rules to present your subject.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Birds - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“An inspired capture showing a completely different interpretation of the subject. Thereare several interesting groupings of geese within the skein, each adding something toFooter 4the story. Image appears to have been captured in lower light conditions, as it is quitenoisy, which is odd given that the clouds look like they are lit from slightly above. Thedark undefined clouds unfortunately dominate most of the scene.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Birds - Image 4 2 months 6 days ago
“This portrait of a Grey Heron shows very good sharp detail in the feathers, but againlacks sharpness around the eye. Many modern DSLRs allow you to view the activefocus point when viewing the image either on the back of the camera or whenprocessing and this can help you understand how best to get your camera to focuswhere you need it to. The depth of field has been well handled and we have some goodbokeh from the water in the background which sets the scene. Bright green leaf bottomright - distraction? Another tight crop, think about subject placement in the frame -bigger is not always better.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Birds - Image 3 2 months 6 days ago
“A Seagull in flight, passing almost overhead the photographer. Lateral speed would bequite high and requires either a very fast shutter speed or a good panning technique tocapture a sharp subject. Unfortunately the seagull lacks detail in the feathers and theeye isn’t very apparent - most wildlife images need to show the subjects’ eye as thisFooter 3improves viewer engagement. The bird occupies occupies most of the frame, with littleroom to move into.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on Birds - Image 2 2 months 6 days ago
“i would like to photograph some nice dried flowers.”
Owen Cochrane made a comment on What do you want to photograph at next workshop 2 months 1 week ago
“That is fabulous.”
Kieran Carey made a comment on Autumn Reflections 2 months 2 weeks ago
“A well designed still-life image making good use of reflections. Simple and minimalistic. Creative use of lighting brings out the shape of the subject. Highlights a touch bright on RHS. For projection, consider a thin white keyline around low-key subjects to demonstrate your intent with framing.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Which way Up 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A very pleasing street portrait. Subject on vertical third allows us to see context behind. Good choice of depth of field avoids background being distracting, but still gives context. Subject pin-sharp, revealing detail and character of the hat in the title. Would be improved by straightening verticals, plus I would consider lightening the subject and adding a subtle vignette.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Wears the Fox Hat 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Making great use of light and shade. ”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Wallpaper Rolls 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Like the idea with patterns of posts and shadows on the sand. Don't believe the foreground pole on the left adds to the image.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Summer Cones and Squares 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Like the inclusion of the needle to break up the pattern. Composition and depth of field might be improved.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Sewing Threads 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A pleasing mono landscape image. Leading lines point towards the trees on the horizon, which are framed by the overhanging foreground tree. Sharp front to back. Pleasing detail in overhanging tree, which fills in what would otherwise be a featureless sky. Lack of key focal point detracts from what would otherwise be a superb image.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Mid-winter Shadows 2 months 3 weeks ago
“An excellent landscape in the romantic style. Main point of interest well-placed in frame. All land features point to this subject. Foreground adds depth and “grounds” the image without dominating. Would like to see distant mountains sharper. Snow in top LH corner losing detail and a little distracting.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Location, Location, Location 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A well-timed image with subject just at the right point in the frame. Strong leading lines point to subject. Leaves on towpath add interest to foreground. RH of image distracts from the main “story”. Consider cropping out approx. 40% of RH side. Also, lighten subject slightly to emphasise the idea of subject coming into the light.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Into the Light 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Undoubted pattern but eye can't rest. Almost hypnotic”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Inside Armadillo 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Lots of different patterns to scan. Even the green bin gives a point of focus.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Give me Strength 2 months 3 weeks ago
“I really like the colour combination of this single flower head set against a green background.The flower head is in focus and is nice and sharp. There are good details in the leaves and spikes. The water drops really make it.Excellent exposure and good DOF to through the background out. Focus is spot on.But the flower is small in the frame. You can crop about half the image away at the composition remains but with the flower bigger and we see it better. And with all that detail, we want to see it better.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Flower Bokeh 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A lovely portrait of an otter. Key areas sharp. Eye-level and eye-contact add strength to the image. I imagine this image took a lot of patience! Central composition works well. Otter’s body to left balanced by seaweed to right. Glad I’m not a fish!”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Fishy Whiskers 2 months 3 weeks ago
“More subtle patterns. Great tones, good black and white. Eye can settle on areas in image.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Car Vents 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Lighting good on the right of the image but becomes flat and not so interesting on the left.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Blue Steel 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Good straightforward pattern, but could a change of viewpoint / lens improve image?”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Above Me 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Firstly this is a Red Kite not an Osprey. But no marks off for that !!The bird is seen perhaps gliding as the wings do not look to be flapping hard. The bird is on the left and has plenty of space to fly into.Really good focussing as the head and eyes are lovely and sharp.The DOF is excellent as we have well diffused background too.Lovely angle of wings and tail.The exposure is excellent and we see great colours and details in the plumage.The details on the white of the face seem to be that a degree of noise reduction has been used as it is a little soft. Perhaps a crop from a larger image.A very good image however.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Osprey in Flight 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Crisply rendered and expertly composed against a visually neutral background. Perfectly in focus across the entire bloom and illuminated well to preserve the subtle detail of the petals in the highlights.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on White Rose 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Your title tells me the story, and the image confirms it. Deft use of a leading line, and the vignette helps the composition, although you could maybe take it a notch down or feather it a bit more.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Sanctuary 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A very pleasing and apparently very simple portrait, with just enough "adornments" to provide the context - the bobble hat and the wheels of the gun carriage. To have provided more would have detracted from the portrait”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Gunner at Ease 2 months 3 weeks ago
“The fishmonger's expression is perfectly captured in this image which tells a story. There's a lot of clutter which is a bit of a visual distraction, but important for setting the scene, but you could maybe lose the meters on the left edge.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on What's Wrong with my Fish? 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Again, a well seen and well captured view. The placement of the bothy versus the island makes for a good balance in the image, but I might have liked a bit more space on the left of the bothy.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Cold Light Sunrise 2 months 3 weeks ago
“An effective pot pourri of shapes and colours which very well conveys the sense of what you saw on the day. Very well done.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Tarbet 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Great composition here, with bridge set against the skyline, itself dusted with the wispy cloud. The ensemble has been deftly framed by the trees. Great range of tones, and all cropped to suit.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Brooklyn Bridge 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A good moody black and white of church. Overall a good exposure and we can see plenty of details in the stone work as well as the clouds in the sky. We are perhaps missing the full tonal range as there does not seem to be the brightest of whites or blackest of blacks. So have a look at the histogram when taking the shot or in PP.We are standing outside of the church and the wall is between us and the areas of interest. This wall can stop us getting into the image so be careful where you stand.Good DOF with focus from front to back.Nice and sharp.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Moody Blues 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A good moody black and white of church. Overall a good exposure and we can see plenty of details in the stone work as well as the clouds in the sky. We are perhaps missing the full tonal range as there does not seem to be the brightest of whites or blackest of blacks. So have a look at the histogram when taking the shot or in PP.We are standing outside of the church and the wall is between us and the areas of interest. This wall can stop us getting into the image so be careful where you stand.Good DOF with focus from front to back.Nice and sharp.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Iona Church 2 months 3 weeks ago
“A very pleasing image - excellent range of tones the results of careful exposure and processing in what I assume was brutal sunshine, with the figure in shadow. Artfully arranged and cropped to suit.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Welcome Shade 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Scarlet indeed! A well composed animal portrait, made the more difficult by the colour in question, which is very often disappointingly rendered by digital cameras (is this a Fuji Velvia film image?). The steel perch is barely noticeable. ”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Scarlet Ibis 2 months 3 weeks ago
“The podium entries in our monthly competitions. The first comment is that of the judge.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Podium Entries - Monthly Competitions 2023/24 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentBit confused about the title. It’s a strong composition with the water cascading through the image. I think the author had just got the shutter speed spot on. Plenty of texture and detail in the falls.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Serenity 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentSome amazing colours. One I read the title I found the boat but it could be a bit more present to add some foreground interest and live up to the title. Whilst it is an attractive image I just sense moving everything right would have elevated the composition.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Sailing into the Blue 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentCleverly seen and composed. I think if there is damage it needs to be more than that rectified with a kitchen towel. I would push the author to be more ambitious. With it being a desktop composition I guess the author can continue the development of the image”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Water Damage 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's Comment I think with water the temptation can be mono to get the sense of falling and churning. Here whilst it works with the water and edges and far away elements have become very dark. A competent record short but needs something more like a maid of the mist to add a point of focus and interest”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Niagra Falls 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentSimple and straight forward. Not quite focused all across the image which it needs to be. Well observed but there are better images here on the night”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Water Drops on Thin Wire 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentA classic image of Glenbrittle. Always damp and overcast when I have visited. Author has chosen mono, but feel like it might have lost a bit of impact. Boulder creates strong leading line into the image. Trouble is with these honey pot locations is that it’s got to be something above and beyond what has gone before. Never the less and strong image and a good hike up to the top fall.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Stormy Day 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentIf you are going for a composite then both images need to work together. The long exposure swirls work really well. The figure gets a bit lost in the background because of the clothing colour and would be better facing the camera and closer to get the engagement with the viewer. Technically some real skills shown here, most of which are probably not going to be picked up by the average viewer – that’s why they are so good – it’s not obvious. The swirls are excellent and the idea has bags of potential”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on The Long & the Short of It 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's Comment Again credit for trying to work a tricky technical composition. It does feel like two images. One of the sunrise – is he cycling into it or away?, and one of the cyclist. He’s very tight on the bottom RHS. Lots of good elements but struggling to bring together for an overall image”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Into the Sunrise 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentThe author should get credit for an imaginative idea. This is a difficult concept to pull off. Firstly, I think strong sense of rolling in one direction rather than all over the place. I struggle to get a sense of focus, other than the bright green dice. It might also have been better to blend two images, one of the dice in motion, probably with a bit more exposure and one a single shot to get all the dice in focus when they land. This is an image worthy of more work and a reshoot. I really think this composition has got loads of potential”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Rolling Dice 2 months 3 weeks ago
“ Judge's CommentsDoes what is says on the tin. I quite like it but am a bit distracted by the writing on the image. I’m just not getting engaged by the image.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Light Spirograph 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentsNicely composed and looks a bit IR. Shutter speed for these images is really a matter of taste. Personally I think it is just a tad too long. A faster speed might have allowed a bit more penetration into the water on the LHS. That looks interesting. If you are using a bridge as a leading line then best to have it a bit lower. ”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Highland Stream 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's Comment I’m not feeling many stars. The bridge is a bit to dominant and ends up cutting across the image because it a strong black shape. Long exposure has created a streak in the bottom which might work in colour but not mono. I think the answer is walk to the bridge and take it from there. ”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Starry Night 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's Comment A classic image of the lighthouse and good that the horizon is either above or below the light house. Long exposure works well to calm the sea and add some foreground interest. I feel that the sky is a bit over processed. A halo on the cliff top. Again, these honey pot locations are well known so requires something at least as good as the last one seen.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Neist Point Lighthouse 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's Comment Another good landscape location. I think the figure adds a sense of scale. Just let down by shooting perhaps 15 minutes too late. Most of the dark areas have gone so lacking detail and potential depth by layering. ”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Matriarch of the Glen 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentHe’s not going to hear with his finger in his ear! Colours done well with rich deep tones in the gold, black and reds. Enough in the background but also not overwhelming. It’s good subject but feel that the composition needs to be stronger”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on What did you Say? 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentSuper shot of the puffin. Depth of field handled well with nice rich blue background creating good definition of the bird. The turn of the head shows off the face and beak. Perhaps a tighter crop on the RHS. I like the context of the daisies on the left but too out of focus on the right. ”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Puffin 2 months 3 weeks ago
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Peter Ferguson made a comment on Molecular Diving 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentLots that work here. Again mono works well to bring out all the details, in particular the beard. Exposure is really well worked with lots of detail in the whites and darks. Framing is a little unbalanced and I would have liked the soldier looking more into the camera.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Old Soldier 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentBags of detail on the face. Scars and whiskers really lend themselves to mono. Author has framed the image with an intense stare from the lion. Keeps all the action on the face. I hope it was a long lens and the lion had just eaten. The choice of mono is brave but works well for this shot”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on I've Not had a Good day 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentA good subject but it all gets a bit confusing. I guess multiple exposure but, in this case, not one of the riders is strong enough to lead the image. Cuts and crossovers don’t help and the crowd who could be part of the scene feel like a minor distraction. Good points are the riders held against a neutral sky. The right ingredients but the recipe doesn’t quite work”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Cycling Proficiency 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentA very interesting and captivating take on a bird well known to us all. You get the quirkiness of the bird writ large with the fact that it is all neck and legs. The different take on the bird is what makes the image. Obviously nervous putting its head down, the sudden look up creates the water drops which as all in focus, so you know the context. Drops literally a mark or two for being a very tight crop on the RHS. The head is the star of the show and just needs a bit more room. A very close contender for the top spot”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Drink Deep 2 months 3 weeks ago
“Judge's CommentTypically, a tough subject to take being in the crowd with low light. Slight blurring on the guitar hand but the rest very sharp in focus and you get the sense of interaction with the crowd. Lights a bit blown out but doesn’t detract. Feet or no feet – I suspect that the stage got in the way. To address this I might have gone for a tighter crop on the faces – they are the starts of the image. Otherwise this is an excellent shot – might look easy to the viewer but this shot is technically very competent”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on The Shires 2 months 3 weeks ago
“JUDGES COMMENTA menacing image of a bird that would have you for breakfast! What a great composition of a bird that looks serene in the sky but clearly landing requires much more effort. The author has got a great background so close to the cliff edge, and the feet, wings, beak and evil eye all come together. Has allowed a bit more space for the Gannet to fly into the bottom LHS. A excellent image – one of the best Gannet shots I have seen.”
Peter Ferguson made a comment on Gardening Gannet 2 months 3 weeks ago