Always second place

[Digidave]

Originally Posted by ntinlizi

wow, if this is second, id like to see first i dont know that you can make it any better!

Just a wild guess, but I think your lack of using the rule of thirds may be hindering your chances. The first thing I think when i look at this shot is, very little background except for the sky & there should be a bit more room on the left side. I'd be more worried about the lack of room on the left though. All in all, I like the shot, but it just seems off a bit to me.

[Hockey-whino]

I love it... it could be politics, taste (or lack of), not what the judges are used to... who knows. I think its fantastic. Keep up the good work move forward, and don't worry about the contest results. Do it for yourself and the love of photography... anything else above and beyond that is gravy. Kudos

HW

[Rolling Stone]

That's a hard question. It's a great image. I'm guessing maybe the other three first place images were just better. I don't think there is anything wrong with that. Nor do I feel there is nothing wrong with second place.

[dsal32]

I like the concept/composition, but the lighting isn't doing it for me. I know you can't do anything about it for this picture, but I'd say look for better quality/more interesting light next time, I think that would probably add the drama to the photo that may be lacking to judges.

[digirebelva]

I think for me the background is too bland once you get above the mountains in the distance..I realize it helps to draw attention to the hat, but there is nothing there to break up a big blue area...other than that, I agree its a good shot

[tjphoto]

60% said to move on, with the poll.I Feel I have unfinished business with this shot.
3 times at 2 Place is enough for me.
This Hat & Place are special to me and that's all that counts.
Thanks for all the input,I'll take it on board next time I'm up there,It's only 20min drive for another shot.

[sybren]

I think it misses some dirt. It is too clean. You appear to be telling a story of the owner of the hat walking a lot, getting to a nice meadow somewhere high up a hill with a tremendous background. To be honest, I don't think that the hat of someone who walks a lot through environments like these looks as pristine as the one on your photo. In my mind's eye it should show more wear and tear, show its age and frequent use and the effect of the elements on it.

My choice for the poll would be the non-existent option "Nice idea, now tweak it and re-take the photo"