Tom Buckard
August 2026 - Mystic Lobster Trap
About the Image(s)
You're probably wondering, "What on earth is this?"
This photo was taken at one of my favorite places, Mystic Seaport in Connecticut. I've always been drawn to anything nautical, so I admit my perspective may be a bit biased.
The image is actually a view from inside a lobster trap. I find the patterns, textures, and light very interesting, and it's one of my personal favorites of the area. That said, it hasn't done very well in competitions. Perhaps it lacks a clear center of interest, or maybe it's just too abstract.
I'd really appreciate any thoughts or suggestions on what works, what doesn't, and how it might be improved.
Image taken with a Nikon D850. Nikkor 14-24 lens, F 22, 1/15, ISO 64 & Focal length 24mm.
10 comments posted
Tom: This is certainly an ineresting perspective. I've photographed lobster traps and have yet to get one that I like. Yours is really different and interesting. The patterns of the wood against the sky work well. Having competed and judged for many years I know that not everything is successful in competitions. I have countless images that didn't score well, but thay are images that I enjoyed taking and appeal to me. I think that's more important than a competition score. Posted: 08/08/2026 15:32:48
Interesting photo. If you greatly reduce the shadows it will be better I think. Move the slider to the right about 60. Posted: 08/08/2026 17:00:17
Michael, I tried reducing the shadows drastically and definitely like it better. Posted: 08/11/2026 12:38:16
Charles, thank you for your comments. I certainly agree with you. You offered my sentiments exactly. I too have competed for many years, but have slowed down on judging. I really like this image but can also understand why it wouldn't do well in competition. Posted: 08/11/2026 12:36:30
Tom the leading lines just draws you into the image! I've never seen a lobster trap before. Your surrounding colors just enhance the trap. Posted: 08/11/2026 12:10:19
Sharlana, thank you for your comments. Having lived on the water on the East Coast of the U.S., I've used traps-not professionally, but through out my life-for lobster, crabs, stone crabs, bait, and fish.
The way these traps generally work is that they have a funnel-like entrance that allows the animal to enter, but makes it very difficult for them to figure out how to get back out. Posted: 08/11/2026 13:02:13
The way these traps generally work is that they have a funnel-like entrance that allows the animal to enter, but makes it very difficult for them to figure out how to get back out. Posted: 08/11/2026 13:02:13
When possible as in nobody is near me I try to open them a little for the smaller fish to get out. Posted: 08/11/2026 13:54:02
Michael, you are right, I do the same thing but most traps in Florida have to have slots or small opening by law so smaller fish or crabs can get out. They are also required to have an opening covered with soft wood, such a pine in case the trap is lost so the crab can chew it way out. Posted: 08/11/2026 14:39:32
I have only seen them in Asia. Posted: 08/11/2026 14:47:02
(Groups 24 & 48)
Your image is stunning as usual. But would you be kind enough to call me later on my cell, I need to discuss some non PSA stuff. Posted: 08/22/2026 12:57:25