The tears, the sun the rain

I'd appreciate some harsh crits of this image if possible. These absolutely amazing conditions very suddenly developed as I was making my way to some rocks that I wanted to photograph. Rain came down at an unbelievable rate - I stupidly left my camera bag open and it had a pool a good inch deep after only 2 mins of rain. The sea was very rough and the rocks very slippery. This was simply taken from where I was standing as there was no time to find anywhere better. I'm not quite convinced on the composition, any suggestions or thoughts? Thanks, Tristan

2sec, f/20, 5D, 17-40.

I really like it.

There is loads going on in the FG to look at, then when you finished looking, the centre long rock formation leads the eye to the BG .

But i'm not that keen on the look of the highlighted part in the BG.IMO i would tone that down a little bit to keep the shot dark and stormy.

same regards highlight. its a shame the centre rocks couldn't have found a slight diagonal to lead the eye through.

Well all the elements are there but like you I am unable to find the compositional balance I think you are seeking. I think the core of the problem is the long central rock feature being placed in the middle. I feel like I want to move around to the left, but then the sun bright areas would be out of the shot which would take away a magic element. I think if the tide was higher and the water was receding over the rocks, then it would have been a different story. I cant offer a great deal of advice, I dont think the shot works as a square crop is one thing I would mention, but the image is very good and has some lovely light on the foreground rocks. You have treated the balance and the tone of the shot, perhaps I would undersaturate it a little??

Tristan,

That famous saying... landscapes are not my style... my own feelings crop to square losing the right hand side of the image, to me it feels like it sits more comfortable...

Nice one...

arghhh... I'm just clueless with this landscape stuff...but it looks ok to me. Subjective as always

I can't be harsh. I love this and feel it is one of the most engaging and dramatic landscapes I have seen on here. The lead in line of rocks and stormy sky are magical. The light reflecting off the rocks is superb. Where was this?

I like the composition Tristan. You are finding some astonishing light.
I'm really looking forward to following your career. Landscapes can get a bit predictable, moody mists, watefalls with leaves etc etc. What I like about your work is its genuine freshness and a great sense of drama and movement.
Good work.
Peter

Amazing shot!
Love it!

Greetings,

Jeroen Stel

Thanks all. Elliott: this is taken on the west coast of the Isle of Harris. Peter: Career? Just passionate hobby, I doubt I'll ever be-able make a career out of it.