Surfing Picture

[photobum]

Hi everyone,

I took this picture of a friend surfing and would like a critique of the image and any opinions on what I could have done better. I would like opinions on anything and everything that I could do to make the image better.

The image was taken with a Canon T1i, EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS, using a monopod. I shot in RAW, auto white balance, ISO 200, 194mm, f/9, shutter speed 1/500.

I made some adjustments on iPhoto after I took it such as cropping, exposure, saturation, etc.. Any advice or constructive criticism in all areas would be helpful and much appreciated.

Thank you!

[Bruce A]

Seriously, it's just not an interesting photograph. Your first mistake is having the surfer slap bang in the middle of the image. Google the Rule of Thirds - it's not set in concrete, but it's a good rule of thumb. Second, if your going to take a surfing shot, then get a surfing shot. What you have here is just some guy standing on a surfboard riding a learner's wave without a good stance or any semblence of action.
I don't mean to be harsh, but get some surf mags and see what you need to aim for.

[photobum]

Thanks for that critique. I know that it's not the most exciting surfing photo, and I see how I could have composed it better. What do you think about the image quality, colors, and other technical aspects of the image? How can I improve on these aspects of the image?

[Bruce A]

Originally Posted by photobum

Thanks for that critique. I know that it's not the most exciting surfing photo, and I see how I could have composed it better. What do you think about the image quality, colors, and other technical aspects of the image? How can I improve on these aspects of the image?

I would straighten the horizon, burn a touch more lightness in his face and crop it for about half the sky and from a little to his right (think Rule of Thirds).

[JFSanders]

Just like Bruce suggested.

Jim

[JimBlanco]

Keep shoting Photobum...keep practicing...and keep learning.

PS: sometimes is a good idea to break the rules