Weekly Competition #133 - Street Portraits Competition

Judging this type of competition is, in my opinion, a very difficult task. Whilst I will try and take into consideration the essential technical and compositional aspects of your photographs, I will also give very subjective opinions about the submissions. I believe that the general compositional rules in photography are absolutely essential, but in street photography, much relevance is given to the subject matter, and the emotional feel of the photograph. I hope not to offend anybody with my judgment, and I reiterate that the judging will be subjective, and therefore possibly different from your personal opinions.

bigcog - Sleepy Village?
The photograph is very nice; I really like the B&W rendition and the feel of the photograph. Maybe it is a bit too busy, and the subjects of the portrait a bit isolated from the composition. Whilst I do like the scene, I find the three cars in the middle very prominent, and would have maybe liked the same photo shot with a longer focal length, to frame the subjects. Nonetheless, a very nice photograph.

patrick - piazza navone
Whilst I find the scenery of Piazza Navona very appealing, I can assume that the intent of the photo was in the portraits of the artist on the board (Street portraits indeed!); This would have been an interesting subject if framed accordingly and if made relevant part of the composition, unfortunately though this was not what I was looking for in my idea of a street portrait. The colours of the piazza are nonetheless absolutely beautiful.

mattox - Russian Market
This is a very fascinating photograph. I really like the balance in dark/light and the girl on the left that is so strong in the composition, even though surely not central to it. I love the colours and different textures of the food, and the expression of the girl really gives the feeling of the scene. Precious image, well composed, and extremely interesting.

viewfinder - Abbey Steps, Whitby
Another lovely shot. The composition really lets your eye flow into the picture, and the downhill slide is put in perspective with the right side of the alley, creating an interesting contraposition. The subjects are completely un-aware of the photographer, and are carefully descending the slide, whilst the dog is pulling. And the eye flows to the window of the B&B, and the alley next to it, with an amazing light at very back. If I could change something it would be the contrast of the black & white, and I would change the levels a bit, to give more punch to the picture. Great effort though, well done.

Bill_And - standing still at a pace
What an interesting photograph. I really like the scene; it gives a great feeling of fun. I also like the natural composition, and whilst a more creative approach would have given different results (like shooting from lower down, or more in front) I really like the expressions of the subjects, and the watching crowd around the scene. I wish it was a bit lighter, but seeing your exif you did very well in keeping this sharp. Well done, great street portrait.

i-Berg - A Fitzroy Identity...
As much as I really like the composition, cyan tone, and the feel of the photograph, I can’t accept this as a street portrait because the subject is a statue  . Great photo anyway!

gartmore – Dreaming
This is such a lovely image. All the feelings of the subjects are perfectly clear, the ballerina costume is amazingly detailed, and the whole window of the shop is full of detail and interesting shapes. The girl’s expression can’t be seen, but the light coming from the window is an amazing example of how the composition of an image can render a feeling. Really amazing photo.

GaryJohn - Peering through...
“I never did discover what captured their attention” - It was the amazing renaissance courtyard behind it! I like this picture, I like the position of the subjects, and there is a pleasing feel to the interest shown by the pair. The slight tilt is rather disturbing, and I would imagine that a B&W version could give a big of contrast to the quite flat view. Whilst I like the photograph overall, it doesn’t convince my taste completely. Love Florence though!!!

Hyram - "It's Over There"
This photograph definitely ticks the right boxes required by the challenge. The subjects are sharp, the use of DOF perfect, and the exposure and crop spot on. I would love to see the face of the character we don’t see, because he seems an intriguing character. Whilst you have certainly captured the image very well, I find the expression of the subjects not completely satisfying; nonetheless, a very interesting picture.

incognitox - everyone has a duties
One of my favourite images of the challenge so far. I really like the subject of the photo, and the shop signs add so much to the composition. Whilst I find the conversion to B&W and the post production of the highest level (it really adds to the mood of the picture), I can’t but think that a closer crop on the right and top would make the composition much stronger. The lens you have used is probably not long enough to really capture the essence of the scene, and this could have been improved with a tighter crop.

Dr. Mhuni - Gimme shelter
I have little to fault about this photograph. I think that the composition is very strong, and the pose of the subject really evocative. A very powerful image, which I can’t fault technically. I also really like the contrast between the young boy and the bright orange of his jumper, and the huge tree that almost wraps him; the road takes the eye away from the subject, and through the bright red flowers at the end, almost gives an impression of hope. The only thing I would maybe improve in pp would be the saturation and the contrast of the image, everything else is great.

johnriley - On The Beat
Lovely lovely expression of surprise, this is what street photography is about, great shot! Had I taken that shot in London I would probably have got arrested in the following 3 minutes, but this chap seems really not too bothered by your photographic endeavours! Technically almost perfect, I would think that a B&W version wouldn’t detract from the composition and maybe add some punch. This is certainly up there with the best!

Aiki – Idleness
Another amazing photo! The contraposition between the dog and the 2 ladies is priceless, and the composition really works! I like the expression of the subjects, and the sense of surprise of the older lady compared to the annoyance of the younger one. Great capture well done.

malcolm leader - Awaiting the call !!
Brilliant portrait, and good title! Whilst I really like the idea of the photograph, I think that the composition could have been improved with a slightly more front view of the subject. The exposure is a bit dark, and the expression of the subject not too evocative. Unfortunately for you I have been at the Western wall many times before, and this type of contrast between religious man praying and symbols of modernity doesn’t strike me too much; good capture nonetheless, and I would be intrigued to see other portraits from the same place!

Belinda B. - Child of the Street
When image quality really doesn’t matter at all! What a lovely photograph, genuine, amazing expression. I think this image exemplifies what street photography is about; capturing the beauty of the human being without constructs. The expression of the girl is lovely, and her eyes draw all the attention of the viewer. Maybe raising the levels a bit would make it technically better, but I am not sure it is necessary at all!

darlene - Painted Street
I really like this scene, I find the optical illusion really funny and the only thing that is lacking in my opinion is a strong subject to the photograph. Yes there are people in the scene, but they are all too far to be centre of attention, and the amazing painting on the background really takes the eye away. It is a beautiful scene, but not a street portrait.

chelseablue - The Sandman
Amazing sand sculpture, the lighting and composition is great, but again, this is not a street portrait 

davidtrout - In the red
Very nice photograph, the composition is near perfect and I absolutely love the idea (often use the same idea myself). It is really well composed, and the arrow pointing at the walking by lady shows your great timing in shooting the photo. I am not sure if the subject is over-sharpened or you have tried to compensate for the (normal) movement. I would have liked it even if there was a bit more movement, because of the nature of the photograph. Still, a very good composition, well done with the timing.

GivingTree – untitled
This is a hard photograph to comment on; you have done very well in capturing this street portrait, but unfortunately it is a bit emotionless. The b&w conversion is also quite flat, and this doesn’t help. Maybe a different shooting position or a different crop would make the photograph more interesting. Good effort though.

Konstantin - The time
A very interesting portrait, shot with a very long focal length you have framed this beautifully. You can really connect with the expression of the subject, but unfortunately not knowing anything about the surroundings leaves you wondering. I like the colour tone, and I am not bothered by the glass, and the non-perfect sharpness. I really like the hand, and pensive expression.

DRM098 - Wedding in Siena
Lovely photo. THe contrast between the posing B&G and the two people in the background makes the photo work, and you have captured the scene with very good technical ability. There really is an incredible contrast between the happy newlywed couple and the people minding their own business, great photograph!
viewfinder - Wet band at Delph
I am very sorry, but having written comments throughout the whole week, I have already commented on your previous entry “Abbey Steps, Whitby” – and will therefore not comment on this one. I don’t think it is allowed to change submission through the competition.

beebee - May Day
Very nice photograph, the subject’s expression is full of feeling and happiness. Technically the image is very well balanced, the use of the shallow DOF really works and reveals a fabulous out of focus part, that adds interest instead of detracting from the photo. I really like this one, it is a good portrait, and the emotion is unambiguous and well captured.

BAJ - Drawn to the Window..
Whilst this is a remarkable scene, and both the subject and surrounding environment present great interest, it is slightly let down by the lack of contrast and ‘punch’. The accents of colour could have been converted to b&w, and the contrast should probably have been pushed a long way, to highlight both the amazing drawing on the window, and the artist behind it. Good effort nevertheless.

flat4 - Looking back
As I saw the entry I immediately had the feeling of having seen this before and couldn’t understand where. I spent a good 15 minutes trying to find it, and then realised it was on the PPG. I find the image absolutely fascinating; the composition is perfect, the expression of the lady and her pose are in wonderful relation with the poster behind her. Whilst technically superb this photograph doesn’t communicate the strongest feeling per se, but still makes for an extraordinary capture. Street photography at its best.

Prieni - Venetian artist
Good subject, great framing and interesting photograph overall. I am not sure if there is a certain amount of post production that doesn’t satisfy my taste; part of the photograph is sharp (or over-processed) and part is blurred, including the face of the character. Whilst I wouldn’t generally be bothered by the technicalities of the photograph, in this case the sharpness of the top of the window really stands out, and somewhat detracts from the subject. Perhaps a b&w conversion, but good subject and well captured nonetheless.

allbend - A welcome break
Definitely street portrait, I am not sure there is much emotion or feeling in this photograph. Yes it is a well captured scene of people in the street, but I am afraid that it doesn’t communicate too much interest to me. Good job getting so close to the cyclists though.

Dwight-Morton - NOT PROROGATION RALLY IN HAMILTON-CENTRE
Great photograph! I really like the winterish colour tone and the smile on the protester’s face is so genuine. Really great street portrait, this is what the competition is all about; the contraposition between the rallying ladies and the crowd behind them, and the warm feeling of a moment of laughter during a very serious protest. Great stuff!

JudithAnn - Cowgirl for Hire...Banff, Canada
Well done in capturing this moment. The scene is beautiful, and the image is sharp, and with incredible light (which we dream of in the UK..) and detail. I really like the composition as well, and I am only not too sure about what the image communicates. Yes the subject is really nice, but it doesn’t evoke strong emotions, when this is mostly what I am looking for.

PHOTOWAM64 - Wedding queue
Whilst the image seems really nice, and the scene very evocative, the very small file-size doesn’t allow me to look at it properly. You have done well in capturing a delightful moment, and also composed the photograph very properly. I am afraid the image quality has let you down, and it is a shame 

mikew - Religion or humanity?
I am not sure if the title is very appropriate... but the photograph is great! I really like the busy composition and the image has good contrast and the b&w conversion is really very good. You have done a great job capturing this evocative scene that speaks for itself.

SteveF - Part of the furniture
Another really good capture, loads of details and very good technical skill. The framing and composition is near-perfect, and the subject is really very interesting. Street performers are always a good subject, and the only thing is that I am not sure there is much communication between the subject and the environment – living the photograph a bit emotionally plain – but still a very good effort.

sandy – Discussion
Ok, this is another great capture. Not only the photograph is technically brilliant, and very well composed, but the use of shallow DOF and accurate focussing has given the composition additional strength. The main character is only one brilliant component of the image, and the expression of the man on the right, and the one behind on the left really add to the image. I could see this in a very good b&w conversion, but also the colour works well. Might not be, but the profile of the person on the left – who I assume is the other person in the discussion – really adds depth to the image, and it helps understand the scene in all its passionate conflict.

MarjutL – Reflection
“I must admit that I'm really shy to take photos of people that I don't know, specially without a permission. I Hope this guy is not any of you!” – This is exactly the point of the competition. Your image is very well captured, and also very artistic; the light and monochrome rendition is beautiful, and I really like the fact that you went out there and tried hard to get a portrait of a person in the street. Unfortunately I am not too convinced of the portrait itself, not being able to really see the subject very clearly. High marks for effort and bravery though!

womble - The Commissary
It surely fits the requirements of the challenge, this is a very very good street portrait indeed! I really like the monochrome tone, and the composition is simple, and works very well. I particularly like the fact that you used a long lens, and managed to get a lot of detail in the portrait, whilst shooting from far away. The expression of the character is fascinating; you don’t know if he just witnessed a crime, or has a horrible tooth ache. Admirable capture, great job! Should be disqualified for the lateness of the entry time, but I like you, so you’re still in!!!



When I started writing these comments after the first few submission, I had no idea that it was going to be this hard. Out of the many entries, some really made me think, some made me smile, and some really shocked me for their artistic level. I have tried to be fair in my judgment, but as I said at the beginning, I have surely failed to give a completely objective view; I really hope none of you will be offended by my comments, and if so, please do let me know, and note that it probably has to do with the ESL nature of my English . It has been a hard decision to come up with a winner, but in the end this is it, in reverse order:

Commended:
- Idleness by Aiki
- everyone has a duties by incognitox
- The Commissary by womble

Highly Commended
- Russian Market by mattox
- Child of the Street by Belinda B.

3rd Place
- Discussion by sandy
(A great street portrait, amazing composition, and a really evocative image)


2nd Place
- Dreaming by gartmore
(Amazing image, a real piece of art)

1st Place – Competition Winner
- Looking back - flat4
(Another amazing piece of art, the nature of the composition makes it stand out from all but the second place – Congratulations!!!)

Apologies - Jimmy_Dean0's entry was submitted too late for mu judging, at 00:00.

Very swift and pecise judging Nathan and expert comments. I can't fault your choice of a winner, it stood out for me too as the likely top place when I first saw it, so congratulations to Flat4.
Good to see Womble has already broken his New Year resolution about 'No more Mr Last Minute.'

Hang on David, it was 30 minutes before closing! Not bad for me

I am glad to say that my money was on the winner. Just a stunning shot.

Many thanks for my commended spot, especially as I wasn't planning to enter at all.

Well done all. K.

Well done Nathan, that was fast!

Congratulations to a fine winner also!

Well done all, and lightning quick judging Nathan!

Great job Nathan - many thanks for the detailed judging. I wouldn't worry about your English!

Congrats to the winners. Some great shots this round. None better than flat4 - a brilliant photo. Seems I had a similar response to others in thinking this the likely winner as soon as it was posted.

Congratulations to the winner!!! and others...Great judging. Glad to be back!

Nathan thank you for your lovely critique and lightning fast judging of the competition. I must say I am very honoured by your decision. I would also like to thank you all for your comments.
I am slightly surprised to have won as there were several fine entries in this round. My money would probably be on davidtrout's or Konstantin's entries.

I just made my self a big cup of coffee to help me decide for this week's competition theme

Regards, Luka

Good judging Nathan - very detailed analysis for each entry which must have been hard work. Good choice of winner too, a very well observed street scene and well captured.

Mike

Nice work Nathan....thank you for the lovely ajudacation on my submission!

Congrats to all winners...It was a fine group of photos this week...such a great topic too.

Many thanks to Nathan for the comprehensive judging and for my Highly Commended.

Congratulations to flat4 for the winning entry and a very clever composition.

Congratulations Luka and good job Nathan!

Congratulations to flat4 - a most inventive shot and thanks to Nathan for very fine judging.

Note to self: must remember the benefit of posters in street photography

.......makes you wonder if Kris ever makes it onto a plane in time

Congraulations to Luka and a fine piece of judging from Nathan.

Very well judged, and congrats to the winner!! A fine photo, indeed.

Thanks, Nathan, for the comments. I agree with your first choice, it's the sort of photograph that one day makes me wonder why I carry on, then on the next, inspires me! Well done Luka.

David

well done nathen - hard one to judge

Congrats to flat4 - instant winner when seen

Congratulations to the winner and well judged Nathan, The winning photo stood out from the rest.
As for my photo I seem to messed up the download.

Thanks for judging the competition and your comments. Congratulations to the winner brilliant image

Never missed one yet... Been late for one or two other things though

Nathanever82

Many thanks for you really creative and helpful advice.
I have made chances as recommend and will re-post.
Brian