Candid of Mom & Son Lost in Exploration

[Steiglitz]

What do you think of this candid picture? She's my love, and he's her son. They both love to explore, go hunting for rocks, shells, etc...

Canon 5D, 35mm F1.4L at F8, 1/125s, ISO 100, from a raw image.

[Cash]

I love candid shots like this! My only advice would be to reduce the DOF.

[Robert_Lay]

Of course, candid portraits are wonderful, and I think this one is outstanding. However, you didn't come here just for the pat on the back. You probably want to know what defects are present so that you can avoid them on your next opportunity, if possible.

Note that the horizon looks to be tilted down at the left. It may not actually be tilted, but it does look like it.

Note also that there are too many pieces of the background rocks that are just kissing the upper frame of the picture. Those should be avoided. Maybe that was created by cropping, in which case you can get some space back between the rocks and the frame.

And last, notice that her hair is a near tonal merger with the rocks in the background. Fortunately, it's not bad - just closer than one would like. In other words, the outline of her head is not clear because of the close tonality of hair and rocks.

These are all things that are difficult to see and recognize in the viewfinder when you are in a hurry. However, if you don't know what to look for, you will never notice them. With practice and conscious effort your compositions will become better.

Nonetheless, this is an outstanding picture - congratulations!

[Pete]

I agree with everything Bob said, however, with casual candid shots like this, the horizon doesn't need to be level. I kind of like the informality of the tilt, it adds a bit of life and dynamism (it's a young angle, like the kids).

The exposure is outstanding, very well handled.

[Steiglitz]

Thanks all for several excellent remarks...I'll take then all to heart..thanks for taking the time!

[Titus213]

I agree with everything Bob said, however, with casual candid shots like this, the horizon doesn't need to be level. I kind of like the informality of the tilt, it adds a bit of life and dynamism (it's a young angle, like the kids).

The exposure is outstanding, very well handled.

I would think this 'informality' would be acceptable in snap shots but not portraiture. Perhaps it's a new genre of portraiture I'm not aware of at this point but being an old timer I like things level...:lol:

And this is the Critique Corner. I have to agree with Bob, completely. It is an excellent exposure but..