Thank you to everyone who participated in the 11th round of “Admired by Beckstead,” our twice-monthly David Beckstead image contest! We are so excited to announce this round’s winner…
The first place winner is Kevin Wynn with the following image.

David’s comments on the winning image:
“This composition has great story-building components. It has two compositional panels that tell different stories yet works together to tell one complete story perfectly. The b&w really helps eliminate color depth and keeps your eye focused on the stories and not the extra color elements that would distract. Another way of saying it: b&w flattens the depth on this shot and I think that was needed to draw us into the story. Depth can cause distraction.
My only critique of this shot is the very dark vignette. A lighter vignette would accomplish the same “focus” points and help lead your eye to the two stories yet give you a better feel for the rooms. Great shot and nice b&w treatment!!”
Second place goes to Chantz Hough.

David’s comments:
“B&w really enhanced the line structure of this shot! It creates a stronger circular/Golden Spiral composition for the viewer. The abstract qualities of the water, clouds and trees in the background are very cool!! Great choice to go b&w and the dress really ‘pops’ with perfect tonality separations. Nice!”
Third place goes to Nicole Goddard.

David’s comments:
“Love the ‘vibe’ on this! The b&w treatment was perfect to highlight all the great gray tonalities. B&w help draw your eyes to her facial expression. Fun!”
Honorable Mention goes to Aileen Bigelow Reilly.

David’s comments:
“Great use of light and b&w!”
Honorable Mention also goes to Spencer Clark.

David’s comments:
“Love this shot and how it draws you into the hands. My problem with it is the post production blocked up the blacks to the point that there is no information in the guy’s tuxes. None! This would draw down a bunch of points in print competition. Go back to the original file and pull back on some of your post production. That would help a ton!”














































Fri, Nov 20, 2009
0 Comments