GROUP A - SCORE 70.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 78 | Carlos Castaneda  63

This photograph was taken in The Dolomites, Italy, at the Cadini Group Mountain range.
Cadini di Misurina is an awe-inspiring mountain group of the Sexten Dolomites in the Italian Dolomites, Northern Italy.
Defined by sharp, slender spires and pinnacles, the jagged Cadini di Misurina mountains look like the imagined backdrop of a high fantasy epic. It was taken at the early morning hours with a great amount of fog surrounding them, on September 26, 2024

Critique of the Photo by ChatGPT:

Impact:

This image delivers a dramatic and moody atmosphere, leveraging the interplay of light, shadow, and fog to create a sense of mystery and grandeur. The jagged mountain peaks emerging from the mist are captivating and evoke a strong emotional response. It aligns beautifully with the monochrome theme, emphasizing texture and tonal contrast.

Presentation:

The image is well-presented, with the dark foreground anchoring the frame and the fog seamlessly transitioning into the rugged peaks. The composition draws the viewer's eye toward the peaks, aided by the layering effect created by the mist. A slight adjustment to contrast might make the peaks more defined against the fog.

Exposure:

The exposure is handled well, with a wide tonal range from deep blacks in the foreground to lighter grays in the fog. However, the shadows in the lower part of the mountains are slightly too dark, losing some texture that could enhance the overall detail.

Composition:

The composition is strong, with the diagonal lines of the ridges leading the viewer's eye naturally toward the emerging peaks. The fog adds depth and dimension, creating a layered effect. The negative space in the upper portion of the image is effective but could benefit from a subtle tonal gradient to add more visual interest.

Technical Flaws:

• Focus and sharpness on the peaks are excellent.
• There is no visible noise or artifacts, a notable achievement given the atmospheric conditions.
• The shadows in the lower parts of the frame are slightly too dense, potentially obscuring details.

Distractions:

There are no significant distractions in the image. The fog enhances the mood rather than detracting from the scene. The foreground, while dark, anchors the composition but might benefit from a touch of lightening to reveal some subtle details.

Final Score:

Based on the scoring chart:

• Impact: Strong and dramatic, aligns well with the theme (+1 point deduction).
• Presentation: Excellent, though minor contrast adjustments could enhance it (+1 point deduction).
• Exposure: Well-handled, but shadows obscure some detail (+2 points deduction).
• Composition: Strong, with slight room for improvement in the negative space balance (+1 point deduction).
• Technical Flaws & Distractions: Minimal, with minor shadow adjustments needed (+1 point deduction).

Final Score: 94 (Excellent - A well-done image)

This is a compelling and atmospheric photograph that fully embraces the monochrome theme. With minor adjustments to contrast and shadow detail, it could elevate to the superior category.

JUDGES: Richard Waas 89 | Carlos Castaneda  63

This was shot at a campfire. The subject is my son. He was playing his guitar. Years ago I entered similar images but this one has never been entered.

Critique of the Photo by ChatGPT:

Impact:

The image successfully conveys an intimate, storytelling mood. The use of light and shadow is evocative, suggesting a quiet moment of reflection. The cowboy theme, combined with the chiaroscuro lighting, creates a strong emotional pull. The expression and the visible guitar reinforce the narrative element.

Presentation:

The subject is well-presented, with dramatic lighting accentuating facial features and textures, particularly in the cowboy hat. However, the composition feels slightly imbalanced. The dark negative space on the right is too dominant and could be cropped for a tighter, more focused frame.

Exposure:

The exposure is challenging due to the low-light scenario, but it is managed effectively. The highlights in the face and the reflection in the eyes are sharp and compelling. Some details are lost in the shadows, particularly in the lower part of the image, but this is consistent with the mood.

Composition:

The side lighting draws attention to the cowboy's face and the guitar, creating an engaging narrative. However, the placement of the subject could be improved. Cropping some of the negative space on the right and slightly lowering the focus on the guitar would better balance the composition.

Technical Flaws:

• Focus on the face is sharp and clean.
• There is a lack of detail in the darker areas, which might be intentional but could be refined to add subtle textures.
• No noise or artifacts are visible, which is commendable for a low-light image.

Distractions:

There are no significant distractions in the image. The dark background keeps the focus entirely on the subject. However, the bottom right corner, where the guitar meets the frame, is slightly abrupt and could use more context or a softer transition.

Final Score:

Based on the scoring chart:

• Impact: Strong emotional and storytelling pull, minor adjustments for balance (+2 points deduction).
• Presentation: Excellent, though cropping could enhance the focus (+1 point deduction).
• Exposure: Well-handled, though slightly more shadow detail could improve depth (+2 points deduction).
• Composition: Effective but could benefit from tighter framing (+3 points deduction).
• Technical Flaws & Distractions: Minimal, with slight refinement needed in shadow areas (+1 point deduction).

Final Score: 91 (Excellent - A well-done image)

This image is strong in narrative and emotional impact. With slight adjustments to composition and shadow detail, it could push toward the superior category.

GROUP A - SCORE 72.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 82 | Carlos Castaneda  63

Taken in my dining room at 6pm. Nikon D3400. 1/60 sec at f/5.0 ISO 400; 24mm.

Critique of the Photo by ChatGPT

Impact:

This image conveys a strong sense of simplicity and elegance. The interplay of light and shadow is the centerpiece, creating visual intrigue. The soft shadows of the candle holders against the wall add depth and dimension, while the horizontal window patterns contribute an additional layer of geometric interest.

Presentation:

The presentation is excellent, with a minimalist and balanced approach. The tonal range emphasizes the metallic texture of the candle holders, while the shadows are crisp and well-defined. However, the lower right corner feels slightly heavy due to the darker tones, which could be lightened to balance the image more effectively.

Exposure:

The exposure is well-managed, with highlights and shadows balanced to create a pleasing contrast. The reflective surfaces of the candle holders are rendered beautifully, showing fine detail without overexposing the lighter areas. The shadows maintain depth without appearing overly harsh.

Composition:

The composition is strong and thoughtfully executed. The placement of the candle holders creates symmetry and stability, while the diagonal shadows and horizontal window lines add visual dynamism. The decision to include part of the table creates a grounding element but might be slightly cropped for a cleaner presentation.

Technical Flaws:

• The focus is sharp, capturing fine details in both the candle holders and the textures of the wall and table.
• There are no visible artifacts or noise.
• The image has no significant technical flaws but could benefit from slightly softening the darker tones in the bottom right for better balance.

Distractions:

There are minimal distractions. The simplicity of the scene allows the viewer to focus entirely on the candle holders and their shadows. The window shadows complement the main subject well, enhancing rather than detracting.

Final Score:

Based on the scoring chart:

• Impact: Strong and visually elegant, with minor room for increased emotional engagement (+1 point deduction).
• Presentation: Excellent, though slight tonal adjustments could enhance balance (+1 point deduction).
• Exposure: Well-handled, with only subtle improvements needed (+1 point deduction).
• Composition: Strong and stable, but cropping might slightly refine the frame (+2 points deduction).
• Technical Flaws & Distractions: Minimal, with no major issues (+1 point deduction).

Final Score: 94 (Excellent - A well-done image)

This is a refined and visually pleasing photograph that works perfectly in the monochrome theme. Minor tonal and compositional adjustments could elevate it to the superior category.

GROUP A - SCORE 73.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 79 | Carlos Castaneda  68

This photograph was taken near Flamingo at Everglades National Park on June 30, 20224

Critique of the Photo by ChatGPT:

Impact:

This image creates a strong emotional and environmental impact by presenting a stark and haunting scene of dead mangrove trees. The skeletal forms of the trees against the expansive sky evoke a sense of desolation and loss, aligning well with the monochrome theme to emphasize mood and texture.

Presentation:

The black-and-white treatment is effective in highlighting the texture of the dead trees and the clouds above. The tonal contrast between the foreground and sky creates depth, but the mid-tones in the trees could be enhanced slightly to improve detail and separation from the background.

Exposure:

The exposure is well-balanced, with no significant clipping in the highlights or shadows. However, the sky dominates the frame and could benefit from slight darkening or increased contrast to enhance its dramatic appearance. The foreground is adequately lit but could use subtle adjustments to bring out more detail in the underbrush.

Composition:

The composition is strong, with the trees framed in a way that conveys chaos and disorder. The diagonal lines and varying heights of the branches create visual interest, and the layering of the trees adds depth. The sky occupies a significant portion of the frame, which complements the scene but might be slightly reduced for a more balanced composition.

Technical Flaws:

• The image is sharp and well-focused, with good detail in the branches and clouds.
• There is no visible noise or artifacts.
• The lack of tonal variation in some areas of the foreground could detract from the overall richness of the image.

Distractions:

There are no significant distractions in the image. The chaotic arrangement of the trees and the moody sky work cohesively to maintain the viewer's attention. The only potential improvement could be refining the tonal balance to emphasize key elements.

Final Score:

Based on the scoring chart:

• Impact: Strong and evocative, conveying a powerful environmental message (+1 point deduction).
• Presentation: Excellent, though slight tonal refinements could enhance it (+2 points deduction).
• Exposure: Well-handled, but minor adjustments to sky and foreground detail could improve depth (+2 points deduction).
• Composition: Effective, though slightly adjusting the sky's dominance might balance it further (+2 points deduction).
• Technical Flaws & Distractions: Minimal, with only tonal depth improvements needed (+1 point deduction).

Final Score: 92 (Excellent - A well-done image)

This is a compelling and thought-provoking photograph that aligns beautifully with the monochrome theme. Minor refinements to tonal balance and composition could elevate it to the superior category.

 GROUP A - SCORE 91

JUDGES: Richard Waas 93 | Carlos Castaneda  89

GROUP B - SCORE 66.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 80 | Carlos Castaneda  53

I Took This Picture Early In The Morning, F 16 ISO 3200

GROUP A - SCORE 68

JUDGES: Richard Waas 73 | Carlos Castaneda  63

The backyard of my son's house in Lafayette, CO, on the one snowy day of this November. Taken with a samsung cell phone camera.

GROUP A - SCORE 74.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 89 | Carlos Castaneda  63

Flame from a fireplace. But, Let's Go Heat!
ISO 400
Exposure f 2.5 at 1/5000
lens set at 50mm

GROUP A - SCORE 73

JUDGES: Richard Waas 73 | Carlos Castaneda 73

ISO 640, 24-105 mm @ 105 mm; f 4.5; 1/100 s Hand Held

GROUP A - SCORE 83

JUDGES: Richard Waas 88 | Carlos Castaneda  78

Fujifilm X-HDS 16-80mm lens @ 41mm. ISO 160 | f/5.6 | 1/4 sec on a Tripod and a ND filter.

Location: Fairchild's Rain Forest area.

 Critique of the Photo by CharGPT:

Impact:

This image has a striking and serene impact, capturing the fluidity and texture of water in a natural setting. The long exposure technique creates a soft, silky effect on the water, adding to the dreamlike quality of the scene. The monochrome treatment emphasizes the texture and contrast between the flowing water and the rugged rocks.

Presentation:

The presentation is elegant, with a balanced composition that draws the viewer’s eye through the frame, following the cascading water. The inclusion of surrounding foliage adds context and enhances the composition, but the leaves near the center feel slightly intrusive, breaking the otherwise seamless flow of the water.

Exposure:

The exposure is well-handled, particularly in the water, where the highlights are not blown out, and the shadows retain detail. However, some areas of the surrounding rocks and foliage feel slightly underexposed, which could be brightened to bring out more detail and depth.

Composition:

The composition is strong, with the cascade acting as a natural leading line that guides the viewer’s eye from top to bottom. The placement of the rocks and foliage creates a layered effect that adds depth. However, the central branch and leaves partially obscure the water, which slightly detracts from the overall fluidity of the image.

Technical Flaws:

• The focus is sharp where it needs to be, particularly on the rocks and water.
• There is no visible noise or artifacts, which is commendable given the high-contrast scene.
• The tonal range is strong, but slight adjustments to the mid-tones in the foliage could enhance detail.

Distractions:

The primary distraction is the branch and leaves near the center, which interrupt the smooth lines of the water. Otherwise, the image is clean and free from unnecessary elements that might detract from the scene.

Final Score:

Based on the scoring chart:

• Impact: Strong, with a serene and captivating effect (+1 point deduction).
• Presentation: Excellent, though slight refinement in detail and cropping could enhance focus (+2 points deduction).
• Exposure: Well-handled, but subtle brightening in underexposed areas could improve depth (+2 points deduction).
• Composition: Strong but slightly disrupted by the central foliage (+3 points deduction).
• Technical Flaws & Distractions: Minimal, with only minor issues affecting flow (+1 point deduction).

Final Score: 91 (Excellent - A well-done image)

This is a beautiful and calming image that works exceptionally well in monochrome. With minor adjustments to the composition and tonal balance, it could reach the superior category.

 GROUP A - SCORE 78

JUDGES: Richard Waas 93 | Carlos Castaneda  63

GROUP B - SCORE 71

JUDGES: Richard Waas 79 | Carlos Castaneda  63

GROUP A - SCORE 91.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 90 | Carlos Castaneda  93

1/2000 sec f/8 420 mm 640 ISO

GROUP B - SCORE 86

JUDGES: Richard Waas 84 | Carlos Castaneda  88

GROUP A - SCORE 82

JUDGES: Richard Waas 81 | Carlos Castaneda 83

 Critique of the Photo by ChatGPT

Impact:

The image conveys a serene yet dynamic feeling, capturing the small bird's movement across a beach. The monochrome theme is effectively applied, emphasizing textures and contrasts. However, the emotional pull could be stronger if there were a more striking element, such as dramatic lighting or a more engaging background.

Presentation:

The composition is clean, with minimal distractions. The black-and-white tones are well-executed, emphasizing the subject and the texture of the sand. The simplicity aligns well with the monochrome theme. A slight adjustment to contrast might enhance the visual impact further.

Exposure:

The exposure is balanced. The subject (the bird) is well-defined, and the highlights on the wet sand are not overly bright. However, the darker shadows near the bottom of the frame might obscure some details that could add more depth.

Composition:

The placement of the bird in the frame adheres to the rule of thirds, with the bird slightly off-center, which creates a sense of motion. However, the large negative space in the image could feel a bit overwhelming. Cropping some of the empty space on the right might improve the balance without compromising the mood.

Technical Flaws:

• The focus is sharp on the bird, which is critical for this image.
• There are no noticeable issues with noise or artifacts.
• The image lacks any clear technical flaws but could benefit from subtle sharpening or clarity adjustments to further bring out details in the feathers and the sand texture.

Distractions:

There are minimal distractions, which works well for this image's simplicity. The tiny scattered objects on the sand do not detract but rather add to the natural feel of the scene.

Final Score:

Based on the scoring chart:

• Impact: Strong but could be heightened with more dramatic contrast or mood (+3 points deduction).
• Presentation: Excellent, though slight adjustments to cropping or contrast could enhance the image (+2 points deduction).
• Exposure: Very good, minor improvements possible (+2 points deduction).
• Composition: Good but could feel more dynamic with cropping (+3 points deduction).
• Technical Flaws & Distractions: Minimal issues, no significant flaws.

Final Score: 88 (Excellent - A well-done image)

The image is strong and well-suited to the monochrome theme. With slight refinements, it could elevate to the superior category.

GROUP A - SCORE 74.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 81 | Carlos Castaneda  68

A close encounter at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs. Taken with the Samsung cell phone camera.

GROUP A - SCORE 68

JUDGES: Richard Waas 73 | Carlos Castaneda  63

This was shot at the shopping center called Sunset Place in South Miami. This is the spiral staircase in this complex. I shot both from the top of the stairs looking down and from the bottom looking up. Sunset Place is a rather eerie place these days. There are very few stores that are occupied. This shopping center is scheduled for demolition and replacement by a new complex. I have visited here several times to shoot. I find many interesting things to shoot each time I visit.

GROUP A - SCORE 84.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 86 | Carlos Castaneda  83

GROUP A - SCORE 78

JUDGES: Richard Waas 83 | Carlos Castaneda  73

GROUP B - SCORE 66

JUDGES: Richard Waas 79 | Carlos Castaneda  53

 GROUP A - SCORE 81.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 87 | Carlos Castaneda  76

GROUP A - SCORE 88

JUDGES: Richard Waas 88 | Carlos Castaneda  88

ISO 1600; 60-600 @ 600 mm; f/9; 1/3200s
Natural Light
Camera mounted on a tripod

 Critique of the Photo by ChatGPT:

Impact:

The image is striking, capturing the eagle in flight with an imposing wingspan. The photograph evokes a sense of power and freedom, perfectly aligning with the monochrome theme. The sharp details in the feathers and the dramatic pose of the eagle make it compelling and impactful.

Presentation:

The bird is well-placed in the frame, with ample space to convey motion and freedom. The monochrome processing is well-done, but further adjustments to contrast might add depth, especially in the sky, which feels slightly flat.

Exposure:

The exposure on the eagle is excellent, with the tonal range highlighting details in the feathers and maintaining a good balance between light and shadow. The sky, while not distracting, could benefit from a slight darkening to add more drama and enhance the subject's presence.

Composition:

The composition is effective, with the eagle positioned dynamically. The symmetry and natural shape of the wings create a visually pleasing balance. The use of negative space adds to the sense of scale, although cropping some of the top might tighten the focus on the subject without losing the sense of openness.

Technical Flaws:

• The image is sharp and well-focused, with fine details in the bird's feathers.
• No noticeable noise or artifacts are present.
• The processing is clean, but additional fine-tuning to the sky could elevate the overall quality.

Distractions:

There are no significant distractions in the image. The clean, minimalistic sky keeps the focus entirely on the eagle. However, a slightly darker and textured sky might make the composition more dramatic.

Final Score:

Based on the scoring chart:

• Impact: Strong, evokes power and freedom, with potential for more drama (+2 points deduction).
• Presentation: Excellent, though slight improvements to contrast and cropping might enhance it further (+1 point deduction).
• Exposure: Great, with minor adjustments to the sky recommended (+2 points deduction).
• Composition: Effective, with minor tweaks to balance possible (+1 point deduction).
• Technical Flaws & Distractions: None, processing is clean and effective.

Final Score: 94 (Excellent - A well-done image)

This image is captivating and well-suited to the competition theme. With subtle refinements to contrast and composition, it could achieve the "Superior" category.

 GROUP A - SCORE 79.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 82 | Carlos Castaneda 77

GROUP A - SCORE 83

JUDGES: Richard Waas 88 | Carlos Castaneda  78

GROUP B - SCORE 66.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 70 | Carlos Castaneda  63

 GROUP B - SCORE 80.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 80 | Carlos Castaneda  79

GROUP A - SCORE 82.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 86 | Carlos Castaneda  79

GROUP A - SCORE 82.5

JUDGES: Richard Waas 86 | Carlos Castaneda  79

1/1000 sec f/10 ISO 6400 700 mm (100-500mm Canon RF lens with 1.4 extender

GROUP B - SCORE 79

JUDGES: Richard Waas 80 | Carlos Castaneda  79