Textures in Black and White

A fantastic capture of what looks to be the side of a comfortable leather couch, the viewer is left in no doubt how the item would feel to the touch. Lighting is spot-on, as everything from the deep creases and seam puckers to the smaller textures of the surface of the fabric is revealed through approptiate lighting. Further textural information is added through the slight shine on the surface where it catches the light. Congratulations on your second place finish.

Ouch, this certainly seems like a case of "look but don't touch"!. By backlighting the spines they really stand out as the subject of the shot, set against some lovely soft bokeh highlights in the background. There is just enough light to also illuminate the cactus at the base of the sharp spines, which adds some realism to an otherwise abstract composition. Great work, well done on your top ten placing.

A great shot that fully conveys the texture of cabbage. Through a combination of the lighting, focus and editing, the form and textures have been well captured, giving the viewer a real impression of that slightly rubbery squeaky feel of a cabbage leaf. The image also works well in black and white, and despite the overall dark colouring of the leaves, the lighter veins and highlights where the light reflect really bring the image to life. Great work, well done on your top ten placing.

I love the contrasts this image presents, between the soft silky smoothness of the ballet shoes, to the rougher coarser wood of the door on which they hang. Lighting is great, with some lovely highlights and shadows on the shoes, showing a lovely drape of the ribbons. Great detail in the wood of the door too. Congratulations on your third place finish.