Critique of photo

[blachly]

I am thinking of entering into a local photo contest but I wanted to get some critique of the photo to see other's thoughts. You can be positive or negative - just please give me your thoughts.



http://www.pbase.com/blachly/image/72563038

Thanks to all who share their thoughts!

Mike Blachly

[jypsee]

a black and white photo needs a wider contrast range than is represented in your photograph. I'd try boosting contrast on the hand only to keep the background black.
I like the idea of it, though. It's a "thinker." (causes thought)

[ernst]

I second jypsee.

The moment I saw the photo I thought it was too dark.
Nice subject though.

[blachly]

I increased the contrast. Now what do you think?

[michaelsv]

I agree with jypsee and the second version looks better to me.
I would also open a bit shadows so the contrast on the fingers will be not so sharp, but more gradual.
Probably by dodging just them a bit.

But that might contradict with your idea of having them really with high contrast.

Michael.

[agroni]

Amazing! The second version is better but i think i would go a bit more overexposing the hand
The composition is amazing, well done!

[doherty]

I think this is a very well executed photo - and the contrast helps a lot.

I was just wondering if you have a title for this photo? or is it simply "shadow play"?

[blachly]

Oh. I haven't thought of that yet. The current title was the Thursday Challenge in the Pad Forum. However, I should probably come up with a good title that envokes emotion as well. I will have to think on it.

I am also open to anyone who wants to toss a thought into the hat on what the title should be.

Thanks!

[andrys]

Oh. I haven't thought of that yet. The current title was the Thursday Challenge in the Pad Forum. However, I should probably come up with a good title that envokes emotion as well. I will have to think on it.

I am also open to anyone who wants to toss a thought into the hat on what the title should be.

Thanks!

"Omen" ?

Some folks have their fingers crossed. He has his palm crossed

[blachly]

Just an update on this post. I submitted it for competition with your recommended suggestions. I won first place in B&W abstract.

So a big thanks to all those who gave critique and sharied your comments. I truly appreciate it.

Mike

[doherty]

Congratulations!