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In my opinion there are very little that differentiates between the second and third positions. The amazing combination of subject matter, composition, lighting and sharp reflection makes this photo and encounter unique. The focus on the head and eyes is effective and is supported by the title. The angle confirms the slightly above eye level encounter. The black background provides the contrast for the colour of the subject to pop. The brief workshop story behind the photo forms an integral part of the encounter. Great shot!
The amazing combination of subject matter composition and lighting makes this photo and encounter unique. The focus on the head and eyes is effective. The angle confirms the eye level encounter. The black background provides the contrast for the bright green colour of the subject to stand out. The brief story behind the photo forms an integral part of the encounter that makes this special. Very well done!
A most rewarding and deserving effort complying with the brief. Amazing pin sharp detail and lighting achieved with clever shutter speed setting in combination with sufficient depth of field. The angle confirms the crawling effort and close encounter. The black background provides the contrast for the colours of the subject to be more vivid. The story behind the photo is much appreciated and forms an integral part of the encounter that makes this unique. The level of attention given to presentation detail supported the judging process and is well appreciated. Very well done!
Striking use of the blurred green background and foreground to complement the pin sharp presentation of the subject. This was achieved by the combination of fast shutter speed and aperture setting to limit the depth of field. The leaves in the foreground made this a challenging situation. Very well executed. Great photo.
Striking composition of colour and reflection of subject matter. The subtle capillary action interface with the mirror still water surface is well captured and complements the slow movement of tortoises. Unique story on its own. The faster shutter speed setting achieved the required sharpness for this photo. Very well done. Thank you for sharing the experience.
500 Images entered
This photo shares a very unique close encounter with a large Honu which is still listed as an endangered species. The reduced activity of the subject is respectfully presented by the sunset background and closed eyes. This contest emphasizes the importance of the context and story component of some photos. Thank you for a special effort.
The combination of the composition of the subject head and the striking colours makes this a unique photo. The central positioned yellow head (with red eyes) is the focus point. The curling body in front and behind the head are not in sharp focus to emphasize the contrast. Would love to hear more about the encounter. Well done.
269 Photographers
Brief
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Show your best close up photos of large reptiles. Examples include crocodiles, alligators, tortoises, pythons, Komodo dragons etc. Images can show these large reptiles in the wild or in controlled conditions in captivity, but please avoid including evidence of captivity conditions in the photographs. Both colour and black and white photos can be submitted. I am looking forward to seeing your close up photos of these large reptiles from across the globe.
15,048 Ratings
Meet the judge
This is an excellent example of the efficient use of monochrome photography to present a special encounter from a different perspective. Determined shining eyes, ragged white teeth and flying droplets "colours" the story. Thank you for sharing the Africa story behind the photo. The vivid detail achieved with the fast shutter speed and depth of field settings is recognized. Thank you for sharing the splashing encounter.
