Drums

I was attempting to convey the frantic movement of my son playing the drums. In this regard I think I was succesful. I didn't have tripod with me at the time, so I decided i wouldn't even try to hold the camera still for the full exposure. So, my question is: does the blurred background enhance or hurt the blurred image of the boy?

Also, how do you like the composition compared to the similar shot in my personal gallery?

I think I like it better with a blurred background. It seems more frantic that way.

IMHO you have caught the frantic movement and this is enhanced by the blurred background. I think also this picture works better in colour rather than black and white.

Larry -
This one works best of the two. It is more dynamic than the other, whose background seems a little distracting to me.
Nice shot... were your ears ringing afterwards??

gene

FWIW, I think this is the better of the two, too. The bright colors of the background objects in the other shot draw too much attention. I'd differ on the camera-induced motion here, though. If the objective was to show the frantic movement of the drummer, a sharp (or at least stable - you might want to allow it to go soft, DOF-wise) background would provide a better contrast, or point of reference, I think. I like the flow of the composition in this shot, though. Thus, I'd suggest a retake with a tripod. Then, compare, and see which you like better.

nice