Hoshedar Cooper, QPSA, BPSA
August 2026 - Circle of Motion
About the Image(s)
Also shot in Vietnam. Young performers demonstrate a traditional ribbon dance at Bai Dinh Pagoda in northern Vietnam, their sweeping movements creating vivid arcs of colour against the temple backdrop. They were really fast and there were other people shooting this scene and I was lucky to get this shot. I darkened the background a bit to highlight the colourful ribbons and the bright costume of the dancers. Appreciate constructive criticism from the group members.
Shot on my Nikon Z9, F/9, 1/400, ISO 400, 55mm on my 28-400 lens.
4 comments posted
Hoshedar,
This image is terrific! More than simply documenting a performance, you have captured energy and movement. Technically, the image is acceptably sharp throughout. The image is well exposed and good call darkening the temple. The sweeping ribbon is the compositional star of the image and captures the viewer's attention and naturally leads the eye to the young performer.
The brilliant yellow and orange ribbon stands out beautifully against the muted gray temple and overcast sky, creating excellent color contrast and giving the image tremendous visual impact.
The lion dancers, colorful flags, temple, and the merger between the two performers all compete for the viewer's attention. In many images that might be considered a weakness, but here (except for the merger between the two boys) I believe that complexity is actually part of the photograph's appeal. The numerous visual elements bring the viewer into the scene rather than simply observing it.
I think you've produced an image that is technically sound, visually dynamic, and full of life. It tells a story, conveys a sense of place, and holds the viewer's interest well beyond the initial glance. Nicely done.
Posted: 08/01/2026 14:27:46
This image is terrific! More than simply documenting a performance, you have captured energy and movement. Technically, the image is acceptably sharp throughout. The image is well exposed and good call darkening the temple. The sweeping ribbon is the compositional star of the image and captures the viewer's attention and naturally leads the eye to the young performer.
The brilliant yellow and orange ribbon stands out beautifully against the muted gray temple and overcast sky, creating excellent color contrast and giving the image tremendous visual impact.
The lion dancers, colorful flags, temple, and the merger between the two performers all compete for the viewer's attention. In many images that might be considered a weakness, but here (except for the merger between the two boys) I believe that complexity is actually part of the photograph's appeal. The numerous visual elements bring the viewer into the scene rather than simply observing it.
I think you've produced an image that is technically sound, visually dynamic, and full of life. It tells a story, conveys a sense of place, and holds the viewer's interest well beyond the initial glance. Nicely done.
Posted: 08/01/2026 14:27:46
Wow! Makes me want to know more about what all this is about. Such color, costumes lighting and perfect exposure! Be sure you print this big and hang it! It will bring joy to all who see it. Posted: 08/06/2026 00:19:48
There is a good contrast of colours between on one side, the lion dancers, the ribbons and the performers and on the other side, the environment. Good sharpness from the front to the back.And the image tells a story! Posted: 08/06/2026 16:15:39
This is a great shot, lots of color and action. The pagoda in the background sets the environment. The dancers have a lot of skill to move the ribbon like that. I would not change a thing. Posted: 08/17/2026 20:33:27