Stone Elephants at Temple

Between the two photos, which do you prefer, and why? I'm having a hard time choosing which to 'keep'.

Thanks!

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It's basically a dull pattern shot, either way.

I think it might do better with a context. In isolation it just doesn't do anything

I think that both images lack adequate depth of field. If you must use shallow depth of field in a shot such as this, I would like it better if the foreground was focus rather than some arbitrary mid point because it leaves the impression that nothing is really in focus. I agree with Robert about the composition lacking interest.

Agreed as well with the fellows above...the concept was great, the composition was not fully met?

I prefer number one, by a mile. Richer colours.

Which of the two is more representative. THe first has a blue bias to it, the second adds some gold/yellow. I really think it is sixes on these - either one can work equally well. You might try a recrop adding emphasis to the one that is in focus... with the others leading out of frame. Much tighter perhaps will give this shot more focus. Right now, in this size, it is hard to visually grab the one that is in focus. Just something to chew on.

Where is this by the way?

My preference is for the second one, would have been good if it was taken from a lower angle though, have no idea of that would have been possible of course!

Unfortunately this photo was taken at the lowest available vantage point. I have another 'perspective' of the same elephants that I'll attach below. The photos were taken at a Hindu Temple so I didn't spend much time as not to be disrespectful.

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I am liking that last posting a TON better. Now that works for me. You've captured the repetitive nature of the place but given me something to really look at.

Sam's edit is beginning to show some interest - much improved!

Thanks guys

It is a better photo... guess I was initially attracted to the blue water and sky, but that didn't work well photographically.

Yup love the new photo you have added, very nice.

I like the last one way better too

The last image is very good. Sometimes less is more. The first two shots probably tried to include too much while the last one removes a lot of clutter and narrows the subject down to a more well defined area of interest. I like the color of the last one also because it along with the long shadows emphasizes the time of day (either very early or very late) when the color of light will have more yellow. I am glad that you did not white balance the image to make the sunlight appear neutral.

Just as a side note, something that has dawned on me recently (excuse the pun), is that automatic white balance tries to make daylight neutral regardless of the time of day. Sometimes it is better to allow the image to reveal the time of day ... which is what you would get in film photography.

I totally agree with you regarding white balance! I have 'flip flopped' back and forth between shooting Jpeg and RAW in the past, but have learned that RAW is the only way to go!