Gods of Baseball

[rjweyer]

I recently attended my first MLB playoff game last weekend. During that game, a scene presented itself to me that screamed B/W. The opportunity was irresistable, and although I didn't have my DSLR with me, I feel that our P/S got the job done. This is my first time taking a photo that I knew at the time would be converted to B/W and feel it is one of the best in my portfolio. I am posting this photo on the critique section to get input in regards to a few specific points in the photo which may detract from the overall image.



1) The umpire - thankfully he wasn't bending over anymore . He is smack dab in the forefront of the photo. I'm not sure I have the ability to remove him in photoshop, but at the same time, I also feel it is a vital part of the photo. They are part of the game, and while everyone in the backgroud is looking at the pitcher (focal point) the ump also adds to the feeling of all eyes on the pitcher. In the opinion of the group, does this person detract from the overall photo?

2) Empty space to the right of the photo - too much?

3) When viewed in a larger format (see link) you get this sort of 'felty' appearance to the umpires uniform. What is causing that effect?

Thanks for any comments/critique. Like I said, this has become on of my favorite images that I have created - all input will really help me develop my skills.
The Gods of Baseball | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

[Hill Country Hack]

Nice shot. I like what you did and the B&W conversion was the way to go. IMHO

Keep the umpire as there are four layers to the photo. The umpire, 3rd baseman, pitcher, crowd. But I like photos that way.

The umpire is static watching for the balk, 3rd baseman is in motion "walking into the play" and the pitcher beginning the delivery is the epitome of baseball. I say don't change a thing.

[Krusty79]

The composition and B&W look good to me. I think anyone who is used to watching baseball expects to see the ump there and is not bothered by the empty space on the right side because they know the batter/catcher/ump are there.

The sunbeams coming down are a nice bonus.

I think your horizon is a little uneven, as it looks like he is pitching uphill slightly.

[mjsnikon]

Looks great overall....the ump's butt is a little distracting, but I agree that the ump is part of the game and therefore appropriately belongs in the shot. Nice job!

[sonysherry]

Excellent photo. When you do black and white photography you need contrast just like you have with the ump and the pitcher. The open space lets your imagination run free. Watch some old B & W movies for inspiration on black, white, and gray contrast technique.