The Lone Soldier

[deeky]

Some random part off of a threshing machine.


IMG_2678a by breckmiller, on Flickr

 

[KenC]

Interesting subject, but imo, it needs either a lot more depth of field or the focus on the closest "tooth"

 

[pisto1981]

I agree with KenC, i think it needs more DOF but still like what your trying

 

[amolitor]

I think the point is to focus on an apparently randomly selected individual. We are now free to wonder what it is about that one that's special or interesting.

If we're not willing to at least imagine that there is something special, or that it stands in for a singleton that's special or valuable (hence the title, I think), I think the image fails. I do not think the random part is special, but I am willing to let it stand in for a soldier, or any other individual with that individual's uniqueness and value, otherwise lost in a crowd. So, for me, it works.

It's not gonna set the world on fire, it's not the best picture ever, but it ain't bad. I kind of like it.

 

[bentcountershaft]

I like the depth of field and I like the one you focused on. I think a slightly wider view would work better, giving you room to play with the placement of the in focus tooth, or whatever it is, in the frame. I don't always adhere to the "rules" but something like this is just screaming for a traditional rule of thirds placement which it is close to but isn't quite nailing.

 

[deeky]

Amolitor pretty much has it. I was struck by the shapes seemingly standing at attention and the idea that, while you can fall in line and be surrounded by people, you can still be alone. I think focusing on the closest tooth would have taken away some of the "lost in the crowd" feel.

As for framing, yes, a crop off the left would put the focus point on the third, which helps. As for a wider view, it would have been tough without a TON of clutter in the background.

Thanks for all of the comments - I really do appreciate them.