Chicago Pier

[augiecrazy8]

So this is a picture I took while randomly wandering on the Chicago lake shore. Two real questions. 1) I felt as thought the composition is well done, the elements follow the rule of thirds very well, and I feel as though the lines lead you to the main subject of the image 2) Unfortunately the main subject, which is the red signal tower, is a bit boring in my mind. Would have been nice to have a light house or something a bit more interesting. Does anyone agree with this critique? Suggestions on color and anything else are welcomed as well.



Exposure 0.005 sec (1/200)
Aperture f/4.0
Focal Length 55 mm
ISO Speed 100
Exposure Bias 0 EV

Thanks in advance.

[IABoomer]

I like it. Simple doesn't necessarily mean boring. Minimalism has its own appeal. This reminds me of a shot I took farther up Lake Michigan which is even more minimal.

[Photologyst]

I think this is a really great photo. However, the rule of thirds was not quite followed. Therefore, IMHO cropping was in order to feature the tower.



I adjusted the exposure for a bit more pop. That is, however, personal preference. I like saturated colour, others prefer the “natural” look. You know what you are after.

[mwanafunzi]

I agree with you the tower is placed quite well (see attached) and the fence does draw the viewers eyes through the photo and to the tower. I actually really like that (the fence acting as a guide) about the photo.

I think that problem with the photo is to do with proportions. The fence is way to big/prominent and the tower way to small. It seems as though you were kneeling when taking the photo. Maybe try standing up next time or try taking the photo a little further to the left of the fence.

3rds.jpg

Also, not sure if you did this intentionally or not, but I really like the continuity between the fence and the horizon.

[Krusty79]

Okay, I'll be the oddball here. I think the composition is fine. I agree with what you said about the red tower not being that interesting. My eye goes there, but it does not hold my interest and my eye wants to go somewhere else.

Any way to work a sunrise/sunset into the background?

[augiecrazy8]

I might be able to get a sunrise naturally, depending on the time of year as I'm facing east here. I could probably get a fake sunrise/sunset in here via Photoshop. Might be a fun project for the weekend.

[wsbII]

I like the composition and dof used. To be honest, I think the image would be better if the tower was not present at all. The leading lines and dof can be enough in some cases imho.