My Favorites & Cognac

This section contains some of my favorite images produced by talented amateur photographers - images from our members. These images inspire me and prove that the art of Fine Photography is alive and well. For the criteria I use to make selections, please see the guidelines below.

This is where I can indulge and enjoy my prejudices.
After a Chateaubriand, carefully roasted garlic-flavoured potatoes and French-Cut green beens dinner, a fine wine and expensive Cognac will determine my picks. Be forewarned, the wine and Cognac may not be consumed in reasonable portions or number of servings.

But with a little bit of seriousness too, the photographs I select will be, in my opinion, great images. Any image is fair game. I may also pick one which follows little reason, but is just appealing to me. The selection is never easy -the process will just be a myopic, self-centered and wonderful experience.

The criteria I generally use are outlined below.
The criteria also change, depending upon the intent / statements of the photograph and image category.

It may also be based on the level of the photographer. A beginning or intermediate photographer may simply have achieved an excellent intent or vision, and the technical may not be exacting.

Selections (check frequently throughout the month)

1. February - 2011
2. March - 2011
.

Guidelines

PHOTOGRAPH EVALUATION – General Image

1. Does it immediately Strike…

a. Subject matter
b. Evocation of emotion to observer
c. Unique treatment
d. Supporting environment of Subject
e. Innovative approach or setting

2. Purpose of the Image

a. What is the focus
i. is it singular / clear
ii. multiple / confusing / undefined
b. What is its theme or story
c. Does it portray the intended message / statement
d. If there is action, is it portrayed well & does it fit

3. Composition

a. Viewpoint
b. Focal Point
c. Rule of 1/3 placement & balance
d. Support angles & path toward focality
e. Dynamic angles, lines & curves
f. Geometric shape, use of triangles
g. Usage of light / shadow & juxtaposition
h. Image format - crop for purpose
i. Focality & space
j. Focal Weight, Mass & Framing
k. Artifact Distraction
l. Border mergers & subject cutoffs

4. Technical

a. Exposure
b. Sharpness
c. Focality: intended blur or softness
d. Color and/or Black & white tonal range
e. Brightness, contrast, saturation, usage of light
f. Use of Depth of Field
g. Shadow details & intention
h. Do parameters meet Purpose & Composition

Or

After it's all said and done, these favorites are not meant to be a judgement, but simply an appreciation of photography and celebration of the Artisan's emotional visions...And, by the way...the hell with the "Rule of Thirds," I may just like it, and have another Cognac...