New Joiners - People #364

Sometimes a little (or a lot) of lens flare can be more of a help than a hindrance (which it is so often considered) here, it works a treat creating a majestic shaft of light across the composition and towards the subject. Nicely seen and captured.

The cool and gritty urban backdrop creates a wonderful environment for this fabulous portrait. The composition is nicely balanced with the elements harmoniously coming together without the subject being overly dominated by the graffiti.. The black and white conversion works well.

Excellent use of light and command of exposure in this delightfully engaging and uplifting portrait. Shooting centre jour (into the sun) is not easy, but if done well the results can be worth it. The backlight on the subject's hair and the sense of light spilling into the scene work well with the lovely summer hues and colour palette.

This is a powerful self-portrait. A strong sense of identity, dignity and honesty shine in this beautifully executed tableau. Clever and restrained use of props, posing, angle of view and lighting have all been carefully considered in informing this open exploration of self.

A strong and engaging high key, high contrast portrait. It's not easy working with a light tonal pallette but the photographer has managed to skillfully retain just enough detail. The light on the subject's face is sublime and the catching works perfectly.

There is an exquisite use of tone and line in this powerful portrait. The background plays a vital role in the 'structure' of the composition, with the blurred line to the left of the subject providing an interesting echo of the subjects arm and hand. The subtle use of light and mono conversion has been well handled.

A heartwarming and fun portrait that raises the spirits on so many levels. The exposure is nicely balanced with detail in the lovely sky and the subjects. The trio of punks are well-positioned in the composition giving the image colour, structure and contrast.

There are some excellent framing and composition skills on show in this image, The yellow line not only works as a leading line but it also provides an excellent colour balance to the red in the dress. the tree branches at the top of the frame finish the image off artfully.

This is a slick and professional shot. While the composition is tight on the bike's wheels at the edge of the frame this does create a nice sense of tension. The lighting and colour grading are very strong and accomplished.

This lovely and expertly seen image just goes to prove the old adage that "the best camera is the one that's with you". It's amazing how good the quality is from modern smartphone cameras as can be seen here, but at the end of the day, it's still the capturing of the moment, the light and the arrangement of the composition that makes an image. All evident here.

A lovely, thoughtful and contemplative portrait. The position of the subject in the urban environment works well and helps create a cool, contemporary vibe. The subject's gaze, looking out of the frame with quiet thoughtfulness implies an intriguing narrative. The lines of the subject's arm and fence in the background create a strong dynamic in the composition.

Fantastic use of colour and near-abstract shapes in this dynamic and daring image. The red, blue and green that dominates the image works extremely well. However, it is also the wonderful sense of depth and ambiguous human presence that gives the image such strength.