Scissors

When I set this subject for a Photocrowd contest, I had no idea of what might be submitted but was certainly not expecting one promoting self-harm! This is a most creative (and skilful) image that cannot be missed because of its originality. Even the title is imaginative. The contest title was “Scissors” and these are slap in the middle. The remainder adds drama (and humour) to an otherwise dull subject. Thank you for livening the contest up!

Another shot, where care and consideration has been applied in its creation. Metallic scissors can be difficult to make interesting but, by choosing these coloured ones, it’s been possible to create an attractive montage. I like the way you’ve managed to space them so evenly, placing the different shapes and colours to add interest, whilst spacing for balance within the frame.

This arrangement of colourful scissors is delightful in itself but I found them particularly thought-provoking. They are all individually coloured for easy identification, but how do you learn which one is for which? And how many more colours might need to be introduced as additional shapes are introduced? Then I’m wondering about the edges they form and how easy it is to get the subsequent cut to flow from the previous one. If the image had not been so eye-catching in colour and shape, I might have simply have passed-over what looks like a nicely arranged collection of scissors. But, now, I’ve become intrigued to discover the product of such tools. This is a beautiful composition which is perfectly arranged and attractively lit. Well done!

This is a lovely close-up of a pair of scissors, created by placing a background of contrasting colours behind. Together with the green handles of the scissors, this has produced an arresting image. I like the symmetry around the horizontal centre and the diagonals into the right-hand corner but feel that it may be improved by shifting the scissors to the left slightly (or even trying a square format). But let’s not get too picky, it still reached my Top Ten!

I like the simplicity of this image and, indeed, the simplicity of its imaginative title. The colour scheme is stark and attention-grabbing. Black and yellow are often used together for that purpose and it has worked well here. The arrangement is well-balanced and is as symmetrical as possible. Altogether, I find it both artistic and eye-catching.

I love this close-up of just a pair of scissor handles. Their colour draws attention but so does their shape, which has been captured perfectly. This is enhanced by the lighting and plain background, providing strong shadows and exciting highlights. A perfect result!

There were several images of this style but I feel that this was one of the better ones. I like the symmetry around the horizontal centre and also the careful separation of space between the different elements. It has produced a perfectly balanced composition. Finally, the image is lifted by the careful choice of colours, giving life to an everyday piece of equipment. (- Having said that, none of these items appear to have seen much everyday use !-)

I like this still-life composition, which includes some threads as well as a pair of scissors. The threads provide colour and context to the arrangement. The yellow thread helps to fill and balance the empty space below the scissors and even passes between the blades as if to demonstrate how they perform their function. A well-considered presentation.

I like this still-life presentation of scissors in action. The herb and tomatoes are a useful way to introduce colour, yet do not overwhelm the subject, which is prominent in the foreground. I found this pair of scissors to be particularly interesting as they make multiple cuts with each action, making faster work of slicing or shredding. The title suggests that the herb is unknown: I’d put my money on it being Coriander although I could be wrong – it may just as easily be (flat leaf) Parsley! Either way, it was the scissors that drew my attention and I have no idea whether they may have a particular identity.

My first choice fits the bill perfectly. An elegant pair of embroidery scissors, placed squarely in the centre of the frame. They are in perfect focus but, better than that, this is far more than a simple documentary shot. Other components required for embroidery have been included here to complete the scene and tell a story. They add colour without distracting from the prime subject and have been placed in a way that provides a perfect balance. This was not a casual shot. It was carefully considered and laid out, and that extra effort paid off!

What a gorgeous colour contrast between the golden finish of the crane scissors and the crimson fabric behind them! They just cannot fail to be noticed! The scissors fit nicely within the frame but, best of all, the lighting picks out the feather detail of the bird and lifts the background by enhancing the folds with their shadows. It’s a great shame that there is a copyright signature in the bottom corner – it’s almost unnoticed but discloses your identity in what is intended to be an anonymous contest.