Rhodi tree

[Renee27]

We have a local cemetery that is full of rhododendrons and is highly photographed. I found this interesting tree.

Just getting started with photography, so I am looking for input. I did just minimal editing, so looking for comments on that, comp. and anything else. Thanks!

Camera Canon EOS Digital Rebel XS
Exposure 0.008 sec (1/125)
Aperture f/5.0
Focal Length 95 mm
ISO Speed 1600

[Doug Sundseth]

The subject you've chosen in interesting; I can see why you chose it.

Suggestions:

The first place my eye goes in the image is the bright spot on the grass behind the tree. I think you'll get a better photo if you wait for a bit of cloud and retake the photo without the hot spot.

The primary subject of the photo is in shade, which means that it is lit by the blue sky, not the direct sun. As a result, it has a much cooler (bluer) light. I'd recommend warming the photo in post (or by choosing a cloudy or shade white balance in camera if you aren't shooting RAW.

The branch on the lower left side of the photo tends to pull my eye out of the frame. I'd like to see more of the tree in that direction, I think. Also, the photo seems a bit top heavy to me (opinion, obviously; ignore if you disagree) Perhaps you could use a bit squarer aspect ratio to balance the flowers on the top and show the rest of the branch. You would probably need to shoot looser and crop in post for this sort of composition.

HTH

[doxborrow]

I think Doug hit the nail right on the head. The subject matter is great, but that grass in the background is so much brighter than your focal point that it pulls your eye to that instead.

I do agree with Doug on that branch in the lower corner. I'm not sure what the tree looks like in that direction though. If it continues much further in that direction you could possibly try a horizontal composition with the trunk to the right side of the frame. The composition does seem a little top heavy aw well, but I think you're alright if you want the foliage to be the main subject (as opposed to the branches/trunk).

The one point on which I disagree with Doug is the blue cast you have on the foliage. It probably is a little bit blue for a "correct" white balance, but I think it complements the purple/pink of the blossoms very well.