Chan, I like the subject and the color illustration this image tries to reveal, but it does not work because the main subject is not in focus: this would be most of the fruit and vegetables.

The other matter that needs pointing out - the table just behind the subject is distracting and does not add to the overall composition.

"Points to Ponder"
Alternatives: w/ crystal clear focus
1. make this a studio shot and place a background behind the subject
2. Change the perspective (with position and / or lens) and bring the subjects closer while initiating Bokeh via large aperture to naturally blur-out the area behind the subject.




  Posted: 05/03/2023 12:29:54

Thank you for pointing these things out to me. I have another image file of this same setup that did score high enough for inclusion in the exhibit of a recent international competition. your suggestions indicate a better way for me to improve.   Posted: 05/03/2023 15:06:49

The colors and the set up are complementary. I wish my vision were better to really be able to see when something is so tack sharp. The one thing that draws my attention even more than the produce is the table. I am drawn to the half circle in the wood grain past the produce. I do like that you cropped out the light reflections in the table, but my eye keeps going to the table as opposed to the produce.   Posted: 05/05/2023 13:47:48

Hi Chan,

Your wife did a great job shopping! And you have put together an attractive composition. I agree about the table being distracting and really like the alternative shot you posted.   Posted: 05/05/2023 15:17:58

Your wife did a great job finding material for this subject! Love the colors. My thoughts viewing this image - I agree there is too much table. I'd make the focus more the food. If there a way to increase the depth/texture of the fruits and veggies - making them pop more - seem seem a bit flat to me (perhaps with light from one side). What are the pros/cons of juxtaposing things that really don't go together - for example the strawberries and Brussel sprouts? Is this what you brought back from the market (in which case you don't need to board or knife) or is it food ready to be chopped/prepared? Might also play with replacing the knife with a loaf of crusty bread? Or a glass of wine? Fun subject with so many possibilities!   Posted: 05/06/2023 03:36:13

Thanks. All of your comments have merit and are appreciated. See my latest response to Lance above.   Posted: 05/06/2023 13:08:23

I like the composition. The lighting on the fruit is brighter than I would like (see the bananas) and even moreso on the rear part of the table, which shows glare. My approach to this background problem for still life is sometimes to use a black dropcloth or velvet cloth and then crush the color of it to zero in postprocessing.   Posted: 05/06/2023 15:17:14

In reading the comments above, I too agree with your comments to Lance. I really like the composition and color scheme of this photo. I also like the juxtaposing of the various fruits & vegetables, which in my opinion makes this appear more natural. You have again showed us how to make art out of the things around us, which is a great lesson for me personally. Thanks for sharing!   Posted: 05/08/2023 10:37:30