Laguna Beach, CA - Sunset shot(s)

[biotechie]

Hi All,

I posted this in the SYS section also asking for some feedback. Thought, I’d make it official by asking for thoughts in the Critique section as well.



Canon T1i / 18-55Kit / 18mm / f16 / 1.6s / ISO400 / 0.9 SplitND Grad / Lr3 for crop & minor pp

I feel there are a couple things that could be improved upon
(a) the position of the grad filter could be better because of which…
(b) the water looks unnatural with a overly pink tinge.
(c) the horizon could be level. I actually leveled the shoreline but did not notice the horizon.
(d) maybe the picture could be a little brighter? (see the 2nd shot in the SYS section - link is below).
(e) While I would’ve liked to have a nice sunset at the top of the pic, there was one that evening and hence the lack of a strong focal point at the top of the pic.

Your thoughts and comments, specifically on composition and color, would be appreciated.

Also, please scoot on over to the SYS section to see the other pics I’d like thoughts on. Did not post them in here to keep in line with the forum rules!
(Laguna Beach, CA - SYS + Looking for Critique)

Thanks,
B.

[windrider86]

first things first, the horizon is crooked.
The water is fine with pink in it, its reflecting off the sky which is pink
Food for thought, the sys your shots section is not the place to ask for critique. Just for showing off!

[biotechie]

Hey W,

Thanks for the comments. Any thoughts on the brightness? I know that's personal taste, but still looking to see what people think.

I know the SYS section is for, well, S'ingYSs. That why I re-posted the image in the Critique section as well since I wanted both.

Cheers,
B.

[windrider86]

I can appreciate that. But, the sys is for showing off ONLY. both your posts asked for critique.
I think the brightness factor is a matter of taste. There are a couple of areas that are pretty dark but all in I think its fine

[navcom]

I think your grad was placed pretty well. I like the composition. The puddle up front is a great subject. You actually might want to increase the exposure just a tad on the sky if you can. The foreground looks good.

As for the horizon, it might be a good candidate for some Photoshop magic to get bot the horizon and the shoreline level. It is pretty obvious and detracts from the final effect.

Otherwise nice shot!