These two photos were taken in sequence in December, 2016 at Pipeline on the famous “North Shore” of Oahu, Hawaii. The surfers were about 100 yards away. The images are cropped a bit and represent only about 50% of the original amount of information captured in the frame.
My camera is a Canon 7D Mark II (1.6 crop sensor), and the lens is the EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6L IS II zoom lens at 400mm. The settings were f:8, ISO 400, at 1/8000 sec in bright sunlight.
I like the action, but the splashes block the view to the face of the surfer in both images. I like the composition of “The Wave Wins” better, but the splash blocks the face more. On the “original,” the face is a little more visible, but the composition isn’t as strong. Which image do you like better, and do you think either one would be accepted in PJ international exhibitions?
This round’s discussion is now closed! 8 comments posted
I like the second image better with the face showing and the surfboard flipping out more, although I think they are both really fabulous. I don't know anything about exhibits yet, so I can't answer your question on which would be better. Posted: 01/09/2020 20:00:49
Gerald Emmerich Jr
In my experience in entering international exhibitions, the judges usually react better to an image that shows the face of the subject. So perhaps your preference mirrors that of the international judge. Thanks for your comment. Posted: 01/09/2020 22:53:21
Bruce Benson
Gerald, I like the original one better as well. The face is still obstructed some but not as much. I like that it shows more of the wave and the board is clearer. In my humble opinion, that one would be more likely to be accepted. Bruce Posted: 01/14/2020 18:48:45
Bev Caine
(Groups 24 & 48 & 58)
Visiting from 48 & 80
Both beautiful images and although I have not entered many exhibitions, if I did I'd go with the first image. I think it's a bit stronger and the face is always a plus. Posted: 01/18/2020 16:03:13
Karl Hokanson
I'm afraid your concern with the face being obscured probably correct. Similar situation with motorcycle racing where dark visors don't do as well clear ones. Posted: 01/26/2020 14:13:54
As I study these two photos, I look for the story in each. I don't think either has enough of a face to develop a connection that way. The board has potential for advertising, except the guy is wiping out. So, what I am most struck by is the churning, washing machine intensity of the water. Is the water the dominant element here? What if you reframed the raw image to be about the water, and not emphasize the surfer? Posted: 01/26/2020 22:26:32
Gerald Emmerich Jr
Thanks for your comments. I'll find out if my image is "acceptable." I've entered the original in a four-judging circuit, so I'll see what the verdict is from four judging panels. Posted: 01/27/2020 11:52:50
I prefer the composition of the larger image myself. I like the body position of the surfer, the placement of the board, spray and of the wave.
I agree that the hidden face of the surfer might not be a plus for this image. Posted: 01/30/2020 18:16:19
