I haven’t joined in with this challenge for a while, but this week Sarah asks us to consider three photos that we judge to be successful. Of course how we judge our own images is very subjective and sometimes an image may be a favourite, but not necessarily one of our best. There are all sorts of reasons for judging a photo – technical quality, composition, subject matter, points of interest, emotion etc.
I have been working my way through some of the skills used in photography this year based on the challenge I ran in 2020 on Travel Words so I have been thinking a lot about what makes a good photo a great one. A photo you are proud to share.
First up is an old photo. It was taken back in 2015 when I was using my new macro lens in a garden. My passion has been for flower and garden photography for many years, especially when I didn’t have a garden of my own. This lead to an interest in macro photography which is all about showcasing a subject larger than it is in real life — an extreme close-up of something small. I was new to it when this was taken, but it still remains one of my very favourite photos, combining my love of flowers with that of bees. It was also commended in a photography competition which I was very chuffed about.
Another passion is a new one since moving to Cornwall in 2016. At last I had access to beaches and the sea so I have spent many an hour photographing both. My favourites have to be those taken from the top of the cliffs, looking down on the wide beaches and vast expanse of sea below. Having people in the composition began to be a ‘must have’ especially capturing them with the light behind so they appear as silhouettes. I could choose any one of these type of photos as my second choice, but this one is a particular favourite as my signature ‘ant’ figures look very like those that L S Lowry painted. Usually known for his industrial scenes he did actually like to paint seascapes, though they are not as well known. I converted this to a B&W effect as I wanted to draw attention to the wave patterns and the silvery foam of the waves.
And finally, a subject that has featured many times on this blog. Godrevy lighthouse. I have probably photographed it from every angle possible except from the sea itself. And it is always different depending on the time of day, the light, the weather. This final image of Godrevy Lighthouse was taken in 2018 when I found myself on the headland in a layer of thick sea fog. I had to wait patiently for the top of the lighthouse to emerge from the fog. It is not an image that is going to come along very often (right time, right place) so it is very special to me.
There are many topics I could have looked at to find three of my best or favourite photos – clouds, sunsets, ‘my’ hill, travel photos, architectural details etc etc but the ones I have chosen reflect the topics I enjoy the most – Macros (flowers), Seascapes and one when it was just happenstance that I was there.
Cornwall in Colours 
Three splendid choices. That lighthouse image is like a gift. How often does that occur?
Well there is often sea fret in August, but it is rare for me to go to the beach in that month. 😊
I can see why your bee photo got a commendation. It’s a cracker. And the lighthouse is a beauty.
The bee isn’t as sharp as it could be, but I love the shape and colours of the flower too. It would have been interesting to see the photo blown up, but the display was on the other side of the country so we didn’t go to see it.
I’ve loved all your shots of Godrevy but this one is a bit special. And I’m very wary of bees but this one is a cracker of a shot.
I really ought to get those two printed out. And take the macro lens out again. Been so long…
What’s your excuse? 🤣💗
Laziness 😂
🤣💗 Any good news about the car?
Not at the specialist until Friday. But at least the dishwasher has been fixed!
Dishwasher???? There are only 2 of you!
It’s an integrated appliance so needs to be working plus it gets the glasses much cleaner than a hand wash. We only put it on every other day 😂
I expect my glasses are all dirty, but I never notice 🤣💟 Can’t wait for you to arrive in Murcia so we can have a get together. I’m fully booked this month 🤭💗
Ah, well, I have news. Will message you.
🤗💟
These are in wow category Jude. That bee and the lighthouse are brilliant 🙂 🙂
Thanks Brian. The bee is very special, my first half decent macro.
Every one a stunner, Jude, each in its own special way.
Thanks Tish.
All three photos are beautiful – the bee and flower photo makes me smile and I’m a great fan of beach and ocean scenes. But I must admit, I really like the shot of the lighthouse – it’s definitely a case of “at the right place, at the right time” 🌸.
Yes, I was lucky there. It was quite a shock when I got there to not be able to see the lighthouse.
Really wonderful captures Jude. I love the Lighthouse and that flower, so alive and vibrant. You´ve got some skills.Please teach me…:-)))
Thanks Christina, that’s very kind of you xx
Wow my friend. These photos are fantastic. I love them all.
Thanks Peggy. So difficult to choose just three.
Thanks so much for joining the challenge and sharing these super images! I love the bee but the lighthouse is extra special 🙂
Thanks Sarah, so difficult to choose just three images, but I enjoyed the challenge.
Great choices, I always enjoy your peopled seascapes, and macros, and … well, most of your photos actually!
I’m quite fond of those seascapes. Really hope my car can be fixed so we can get out and about again. This last month has felt worse than the lockdowns!
Oh yes, we were carless for a fortnight before last Christmas. Not easy in a village, however green your intentions.