This photo scored high in the photo contest because it was a great example of that kind of photo, a candid portrait. It captured a mood or emotion without appearing fake or unreal.

It is true that the clock is out of focus but that only helps; since it is a portrait of a person, we like to see the background blurry and less distracting. The highlights at the bottom of the picture, though, may indeed distract the viewers attention a bit. That is probably one reason why the photo did not win Grand Prize.

Overall, though, the judges felt that the photo was natural, beautiful, and one of the better pictures in its genre. #235

I also would like to answer to the previous posters remarks.

This is a solid photograph. Yes, it is not overly stimulating in colour or shape. However, the composition is wonderfully done as is the settings used to take the photo. The open aperture has placed the BG slightly out of focus, giving attention to the subject at hand. You would not want the clock in focus! However, the BG is not so out of focus so as to destroy the atmosphere created in the photo.

You should also take note that the photographer avoided a crucial mistake often made by many amatures. He avoided a merger of the clock with the subject. He also provided the model with viewing room. Notice that he did not cut the image to close to the girl's face, making it look as though she were staring out of the photo.

Not all photos can be compared to each other. You cannot compare this type of photo to a sunset or to a macro shot. Each photo must be judged on its own individual merrits within the category to which it belongs. Comparing it to other, perhaps, more unique and exciting photos would be unprofessional.

You should also be aware that many aspects are looked at when viewing a photo for quality. Some of these include atmosphere, composition, colour, shape, texture, difficulty of shot, allegory (figurative meaning) and more.

Cheers,
Glenn

#836

I also really appreciate the honest comments that Solli made. While I really liked the portrait part of the picture, there IS a distracting
"Hotspot" in the foreground. Couldn't quite put my finger on what was "off" until Solli's comment.

I enjoyed viewing the photograph and learned from the comments.

Thanks

Sue #2805