On the edge

Reflections in water, windows or shiny surfaces are a fantastic tool for instantly enhancing compositions. Framing them 50-50 naturally creates a pleasing visual symmetry. Similarly, isolating a well-lit subject against a bold single-colour background achieves a similar visual impact. This fantastic image employs both methods.

This is a brilliant example of the classic KISS rule – keep it simple, stupid. I love the thoughtful composition and the striking black and white abstract presentation. Despite its simplicity, it’s incredibly effective. One suggestion for improvement would be a slightly tighter crop with the climber positioned higher or lower in the frame.

Among the many excellent bird and animal portraits submitted for this contest, this one particularly appealed to me. It’s not just technically impressive, being sharp and well-composed, but it has that extra element of intrigue with the bird’s intended prey creating an eye-catching focal point as it flees.

This wonderfully quirky composition perfectly captures a spontaneous moment of fun. The children's natural and engaging poses are delightful. I also really like how the hat’s bright colours and scattered leaves add a touch of vibrancy to an otherwise largely monochrome scene.

I was immediately captivated by this otherworldly image. In particular, I admire the way the strong light cuts through the mist to reveal detail and add depth to the landscape, while the figures add both scale and a focal point. The subtle blue-tinted monochrome presentation works nicely to further enhance what is a wonderfully moody and atmospheric triumph.

This upside-down composition image really appeals to me. I admire the photographer’s attempt to create something visually less obvious. Turning the image 180 degrees is especially effective with reflections. Perhaps this shot could be improved by removing the distractions in the bottom corner and having the pigeon more in focus.

A very well-executed rule of thirds composition, but it’s the stark contrast in scale between the magnificent scenery and the climber that provides visual impact to great effect here, further enhanced by the well-matched black and white presentation. The figure’s pose is spot on and all the better for knowing it was entirely serendipitous.

This perfectly-timed capture reminded me of the famous ‘decisive moment’ shot of someone jumping over a puddle taken by Henri Cartier-Bresson. I especially like the way the eye is led from the right side of the frame towards the jumper by the shape of the train carriage and the gaze of the passengers. It’s a splendid documentary shot.

I have always been intrigued by how a lacklustre scene can be transformed into something less ordinary simply by employing a creative technique such as a long shutter speed or unusual viewpoint. Here, a very long shutter speed has introduced an ethereal atmosphere and smoothed the waves to produce a more visually appealing seascape.

This edgy selfie shot takes the contest theme quite literally. The subject, like us, gazes towards the dramatic vista rather than the camera, making it all the more intriguing. The composition is pleasing, with the figure providing a balanced focal point between the foreground and middle-distance rocks. The warm hues further enhance the scene’s appeal.

This well-crafted environmental portrait beautifully captures the warm, muted tones of autumn. I like the model’s pensive pose and how she is positioned to stand out better against a quite busy background. I also admire the harmonious distinction between the foreground elements and the backdrop.

This is a compelling interpretation of the ‘on the edge’ theme. The composition is particularly effective with the unusual placement of the main subject in the corner of the frame. The stage lights not only serve as leading lines, effectively highlighting the subject, but also create a moody atmosphere.