double arch train bridge

[kitkat1968]

Hi I would like to get a critque on the overall composition and exposure of this photo. Is it well taken and if not, what do you see as the specific problems with the photo. Thanks, kit


Taken on October 13, 2010 at 9.04am PDT (edit)
Posted to Flickr October 13, 2010 at 12.54PM PDT (edit)

Exif data
Camera Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi
Exposure 0.077 sec (1/13)
Aperture f/16.0
Focal Length 18 mm
ISO Speed 100
Exposure Bias 0 EV
Flash On, Fired

[windrider86]

The biggest issue I see is that the landscape on the other side of the tunnels is totally blown out. This would be a perfect image for HDR

[fotoworx]

I agree with windrider86 about the landscape being blown out, but I think the composition is spot on, nice shot.


Photography Tips

[bruceliv]

Not only is the sky and background blown out, but the foreground has no shadow detail whatsoever. Also you were pointing the camera upward to get the top in, and the perspective is disturbing. If you don't have a perspective control adjustment in your post processing software, you must be very careful to hold your camera perfectly parallel to architectural subjects, unless you intentionally want to distort.

Why did your flash fire? What was the purpose?

How did you make this B&W? Did you do it by desaturation? There is a loss of dynamic range, that's why I ask.

Before going to the trouble making an HDR, which produces troubling issues most of the time, you need to balance your exposure and learn how to make fine adjustments later.

Your original size as viewed on flickr is soft. Probably because of your choice of slow shutter speed and small aperture.

[DivotMaker]

Great subject. I can see that would provide a ton of great possibilities.

IMO,

You attempted to get too much into the shot, so it leaves me feeling the composition is crowded. My eyes don't like how the tunnels are cut off on either side. I am also uneasy with how tight things are at the top and bottom.

I feel as though the image is leaning slightly. While the rail at the top is close to horizontal, it's not quite there. (I think the tight crop accentuates this)

I don't mind the perspective, in fact, I like what it could add. However, again, because of too much in the image, I feel it degrades this image.

If you have a chance to shoot this again,
I would try to simplify the subject. (Remember the rule of thirds)
Take windrider86s suggestion and try HDR
Maybe try some slightly different angles, to cut the "blown out" and add some characters.

You have a GREAT subject here.....I would be interested to see what you can do with it.

Just my 2c's

[kitkat1968]

Thanks, I appreciate what you have all said. I can see a subject in these arches but it will take going back and trying different things. I had a hard time with the light. I'll have to see if I can take it again with the sun behind me. I appreciate all the comments-very helpful and encouraging.

Thanks, Kit