Sand#1

I think the picture lacks a center of interest/

Yeah, too much sand as well....

But seriously folks.... Only suggestion I can think of is to try a graduated burn to the top to even out the tone across the whole frame as the contrast goes to pot as it gets lighter.

The lower 2/3s is a beautiful abstraction. Nice idea.

I think it's a good idea with some potential. What changes the tone at the top of the frame seems to be a reflection of something, and it is slightly distracting. Perhaps using a polarizing filter would cut through some of that. Although that might take away from the abstraction too, so it's a suggestion with a reservation.
Keep exploring!

- Thom

I think it's great. I dont see it as sand. I see it as an abstract. Lines in one direction, change of contrast in another.

Nice Job!

I don't want to be critical - ah, why not, it's the critique gallery!

I'm curious why you departed into color for this shot? I don't see what color contributes to this shot. To me this is all about shape, texture and tone. I bet if it wasn't shot in color those distractions cited above would be lessened. Just my humble opinion...

Thanks to all who commented.


Chuck
I used colour on this one because it was in the camera at the time (end of a role of kids party shots).
I agree with most of the comments cited above and I believe I could have made it stronger in B+W.

Leigh
Yes, it does lack a centre of interest, however I was 'moved' by the strength in the contrast and patterns formed and I was trying to capture that as an abstraction. Does every picture (especially an abstract) need a Centre of Interest? I'd be interested in other comments on that one.
Huggy
The shot was into the sun and so probably would have benefited from a polarizer to reduce the glare at the top. The restricted latitude of colour film hasn't helped here either. Again I think I could probably do better in B+W.
Bob, Robert and Doug
Thanks for the comments and for seeing it as an abstraction
Phill

I like this very much as it appears on my monitor. The colour of the sand is almost monochrome and looks to me as if it is a toned b&w print. I agree that b&w would be stronger. In May I will have an opportunity to photograph some sand dunes. Any advise on exposure?