too flat? too much light?

[helga]

Hi, I took this picture last year in Gambia. I saw this image at full midday (sun at its highest) but couldn't resist taking a picture of it. Personally I quite like the composition but the longer I look at it, the more doubts I have. Anyone?
thanks!
Helga



Exposure 0.008 sec (1/125)
Aperture f/7.1
Focal Length 60 mm
ISO Speed 100
Exposure Bias +2/3 EV

[JLK]

It does seem a little flat, I agree but I don't think there is too much light. It still seems like a nice image, maybe fiddle around with contrast?

[LeeR]

What is it about bicycles that attracts us. H. G. Wells said, "When I see an adult on a bicycle, I do not despair for the future of the human race." It seems that just looking at one waiting to be ridden conjures all sorts of pleasant memories. As for your image, I agree that midday is a terrible time to be taking pictures; the light is harsh and the shadows are all in the wrong places. I did once get a great shot at high noon and I was so excited I sent a copy to all my friends. But that was many years ago and I haven't had one since.
Composition means, among other things, that you are responsible for every part of your image. Every corner, every square millimeter of your image is either helping to communicate a thought or feeling...or it is working against you. You have a number of good things working for you in this image especially the repitition of the vertical lines juxtaposed against the circles and angles of the bicycle. But I think if you are honest with yourself you will also have to admit that there are areas that are not serving you well. Should the tree in the foreground block part of the bike? Would moving in closer have eliminated some distractions? Could you have eliminated some of the bright areas in the background that compete for our attention? These are the questions great photographers ask themselves all the time as they move around looking for the best possible angle to create their masterpiece.

[scootermcq]

LeeR's answer is great, and I agree completely.

Besides that, I have a question. What is that blue stripe behind the bike running across the sand? Is that some PP work or part of the picture? I guess it is also a citique beside curiosity, because I see that and my entire focus went to it trying to figure out what it was.

[RecurrentNerve]

It's a fishing net, isn't it? You can see the separate strands just above the main blue bit, and the floats at the right hand end. It looks blue where there's lots of net piled up together.

[helga]

Thanks LeeR for the very precious comments! I'm quite a beginner, lots to learn still, but very eager.

About the 'thing' behind the bike: it is indeed a fishing net. I realize that it takes the eyes off the main subject which is the bike. I was with a group when taking this picture and I had to take the picture while I was walking because of the group already being too late. Nevertheless, I could have sought another position and run afterwards to catch up with the others. Will keep it in mind next time!