Decisive Moments

Timing and the ability to react in a split second to an event in front of you that you could not have possibly anticipated is the sign of a great street photographer and this shot is proof that the individual making this image has real instincts and a large amount of talent. I'm not sure if the man is falling down or dancing but wow what a capture. It looks like he could have been transported back in time to another era in New York. This image has the feel of a classic street scene. It's that good. Great exposure, fantastic focus and all done in a split second. Incredible photograph.

This has all the hallmarks of a classic decisive moment. The framing is superb as is the composition. The technique and exposure are beyond reproach and the timing is impeccable. The ability to capture the diver mid air in a perfect line with the diving board takes some doing. I can't see how this image could be improved. The use of black and white adds to the documentary tradition in keeping with the subject and how it has been made. I can imagine Henri Cartier-Bresson looking at this and gasping. It's that good. Very well done.

The relationship and demeanor between the woman reading the newspaper and the stenciled portrait of a lady on the wall in the background could not be further apart. I love the fact that the real lady is blissfully unaware of both the photographer who is been looked at by the lady on the wall and the picture. This really adds a sense of drama to the entire scene. The splash of color form the bag lifts the image and the timing of the photographer perfectly captures this relationship and formal study of contradictions and opposites perfectly. Well done.