From: caroleigh@c...
Date: Mon Dec 13, 2004 8:18 am
Subject: Critique: CJ Middendorf (Dogs: 3 photos)
Casey on the Stairs - Cute angle and good concept, but
I don't think this one works as well as Rich's version of your shot nor
as well as your Bailey shot (next). Why? The stairs and the railing seem
to take preeminence here -- too much framing, I think, especially since
one of the spindles covers a good portion of Casey's ear. I appreciate
the fact that this is a tough dog to shoot. I get the impression he doesn't
sit still for very long and he's SO DARK -- a real photographic challenge.
Curious Bailey - Hmmmm . . . Ears partially cut off,
moustache partially cut off. But somehow it doesn't matter in this case.
As a "formal" portrait, yes, this would definitely matter. But
as a casual photograph of a beloved pet, it's the expression, the light,
the angle that wins and makes this a compelling photograph. So even though
you did EVERYTHING wrong, CJ, it's still a good shot! :-) And notice I
didn't say one thing about diagonal lines . . .
Bailey's Serious Side - Oooh, so, so close to greatness!
Had Bailey been just one more step lower so that the area above his head
was the carpeted stairs rather than a light-colored wall, it would have
been TERRIFIC! My eye, however, tends to go to the light spot over the
stairs first, then to the dog, which isn't what you want. Your shot of
the dog, though, is very good. I like the little bit of light along his
neck and shoulders there on the right. I like the auburn tones of his
moustache. The ears are perky. If you have the time and inclination, you
may wish to clone some carpet into the light space over his head and turn
this into a more dramatic portrait. Very good photograph. Kudos.
Carol Leigh
