Maybe a problem, Maybe not

[Scrappy]

More than once I have had a photo in and got a small rating for the wrong reason to me. This time it was because of crystel looking spots in the photo that were believed by the viewer to be a camera cause. These spots were on the flower when the photo was shot. The whole flower looked like it was made of sugar crystels. I really shot the flower because I thought the crystels looked very interesting in the morning sunlight. I never thought they would cause me to get a small rating. I surely wouldn't have listed the photo if I had thought this. So I don't know if this would be concidered a problem are just a mistake. Here is the photo in question

[famjad21]

Hi Scrappy,

I gave you a 7 which carries a good to excellent definition. The crystal spots had nothing to do with it. I should have explained what keeps it from being a 10 for me.

I shoot a lot of flowers but I don't think flower shots, in general should get 10's because they really aren't that original just naturally pretty. Your shot has nice colors and nice composition but the leaves in the background are a little distracting and cast some harsh shadows that take away from the artistry. The pistils and stamens are slightly out of focus and there is a lack of detail in that area.

I meant my comments about the crystals and focus to be supportive not uncomplimentary.

Again, a 7 is a good rating and I hope you take the critiques and use them to improve. I have learned so much from the critiques, especially the harsher ones.

There have been times I submitted photos I wouldn't have rated a 4 for artistry. I did it because I thought the members would enjoy the unusual subject.

In summary, I meant only to help. If you would prefer that I not critique your photos in the future let me know by private email and I will comply.

Good luck,

Frank

[Scrappy]

The only thing you mentioned about the photo was the speckles. I only wanted you to know they had nothing to do with my camera or settings. They were on the flower when I shot it. I never mind an honest critique. But you shouldn't keep insisting it was my camera or settings when it wasn't. If the focus was off you should have said so. And I have seen many floral shots that deserved a 10.