Wildlife Photo Competition 6 2013 : Judges Critiques

An original subject. The very short depth of field is nicely placed on tortoise’s eyes giving them and his face great detail. The nostrils are just out of focus which is a shame and I wonder if he wouldn’t have been nicer with more sharpness on his body. Very short depths of field like this can really bring some small detail to our attention, sadly there isn’t much of that within the focus zone here. I guess he wasn’t moving too fast for a wider depth of field and a slower shutter speed.

I guess you did well capturing this action shot of a fast moving jumping wet monkey. The splashes of water add a dimension but unfortunately you have missed the focus, especially on her face, so I’m afraid your photo cannot get through the first selection.

Beautiful shot of a painted turtle. You have made good use of the backlight and overcast conditions which set off those amazing colours. He also has a great attitude for this portrait. Did he really climb up this branch? Or is that a look of contempt?

Shame you have missed the focus here because this amusing photo tells a story.

Well you did a good job getting in so close to this buffalo but whatever it is you have done to your photograph has ruined its chances. Both textures and colours look awful.

This is a stunning shot and would have made the final selection in another round of this competition. The black and white panorama works really well, your exposure is spot on and post processing has been sensitively managed. Great shot, i can only suggest you continue.

Your intentions here are sound, getting a close crop, however your technique isn’t quite there. The crop is too tight on the right, cutting off his ear, whereas on the left there is plenty empty space. Focus, exposure and contrast are sadly all awry.

Here too is a strong contender . You have captured an original and creative portrait of this ourang outan. The square format adds to the impact and accentuates his beautiful beard. Great work, more please.

Nice try but image quality is lacking. Those yellow lemur eyes are fantastic but it is a shame you have missed the focus.

Well done for daring to get this shot of such a dangerous toothy grin. I hope it is taken through glass, or are you really in the swamp?