Year 2018 Best Photos

Year 2018 Best Photos

AI Summary: Don't pack up your camera until you've left the location. - Joe McNally



"Don't pack up your camera until you've left the location." - Joe McNally


Resilient Rays on Rocky Ground

Subject Rating: 7/10 (Yellow Wildflowers with Attitude)

Alright, let's talk about these little bursts of sunshine clinging to life in what appears to be a rock garden that forgot the 'garden' part. The subject here is a cluster of bright yellow wildflowers, determinedly pushing through sandy, rocky terrain. They're not your pampered garden roses; these are the tough guys, the survivors, with spiky buds and some flowers looking a little wilted, like they just finished running a marathon in the desert heat. The mood is surprisingly cheerful, a testament to nature's persistence, but also a touch weary, as hinted by the dried bits among the vibrant blooms. The background is a softly blurred tapestry of grey rocks and sandy earth, providing a neutral, earthy canvas that really lets those yellows pop, proving that even the most mundane backdrops can make a star shine brighter.

From a photographic perspective, the composition uses a shallow depth of field effectively, drawing your eye directly to the flowers in the foreground and midground while rendering the rocks into abstract shapes. The lighting is soft and natural, probably overcast, which is ideal for bringing out the color saturation of the yellow petals without harsh shadows. The color palette is dominated by the cheerful yellow against muted browns and greys, a simple yet effective contrast. The style is classic nature photography, capturing the details of the plant life in its natural (and slightly unforgiving) habitat. The inclusion of the photographer's watermark, "Preston Lau PHOTOGRAPHY," adds a touch of professional branding, reminding us who decided these plucky little flowers were worthy of a close-up – and honestly, they kind of are.


Stacked Against the Odds
8/10

Behold, the humble cairn, reaching for the heavens like a defiant, stone-age skyscraper on a moody, overcast day. This isn't just a stack of rocks; it's a testament to human patience (or perhaps extreme boredom) and a bold challenge to the laws of physics and possibly local park regulations. Against the backdrop of rugged, textured coastal rocks and a calm, grey ocean stretching to a similarly grey sky, this meticulously balanced tower stands as the undisputed protagonist. The scene feels quiet, perhaps even a touch melancholic under the flat light, yet there's a strange sense of accomplishment emanating from this precarious pile of geological leftovers. It's a simple subject, elevated by its unexpected presence and fragile stability.

From a photographic perspective, the composition wisely places the rock tower slightly off-center, allowing the jagged coastline on the left to provide visual anchor and context. The soft, diffuse lighting courtesy of the cloudy sky is a blessing for detail, bringing out the rich textures of the rocks, from the rough, rust-colored giants on the left to the various shades and surfaces of the stacked stones. However, this same soft light does flatten the scene somewhat, muting the colors into a palette of earthy browns, greys, and blues. The foreground is nicely filled with smaller rocks and sand, leading the eye towards the main subject. It's a classic landscape approach, albeit with a rather quirky central figure that asks more questions than it answers, signed off with the photographer's flourish.


Title: The Grumpy Rock Sentinel

Rating: 8/10 for sheer cuteness and photogenic potential


Caught mid-scamper or maybe just contemplating the meaning of nuts, this California ground squirrel strikes a pose that says, "Yeah, I see you with that camera. What's it to ya?" Perched firmly on a textured rock, our furry subject dominates the foreground with an almost regal, albeit slightly suspicious, stare. The mood is definitely one of cautious observation, a quiet moment interrupted, perhaps. He's got those beady eyes locked on something just beyond the lens, whiskers twitching, giving off a vibe of "Don't even *think* about stealing my stash." The earthy tones of his fur blend seamlessly with the sandy, rocky environment, a testament to nature's camouflage skills, which is great for surviving predators, maybe less so for standing out in a photograph.

From a technical standpoint, the composition places our squirrel nicely off-center, allowing the tail to lead the eye into the frame and giving the image a sense of depth and environment. The focus is sharp right where it needs to be – on the squirrel's face and front paws, capturing the texture of his fur and the details of his little hands perfectly. The lighting is soft and diffused, likely an overcast day or open shade, preventing harsh shadows and bringing out the subtle variations in color and texture of both the squirrel and the rocky background. The background itself, a blur of warm-toned sand and larger rocks, provides a simple, uncluttered backdrop that keeps the focus squarely on the subject. It's a classic wildlife portrait setup, well-executed to capture a charming, if slightly wary, moment with a common but captivating critter. The only minor quibble? Maybe a tiny bit more catchlight in the eyes to give them that extra sparkle, but hey, you can't ask for everything from a squirrel with a job to do (mostly foraging, probably).


Hearst Castle Towers and Tropical Guardians

Subject Rating: 9/10

Behold, the opulent extravagance that is Hearst Castle, reaching for a impossibly blue California sky, flanked by its ever-present, slightly dishevelled palm tree guardians. This classic low-angle shot captures the towering splendor of the main facade and its distinctive bell towers, giving you that craning-neck perspective you'd get standing right at the entrance. There's a definite sense of grandeur here, a sunny, almost theatrical mood amplified by the clear weather. The composition makes good use of the vertical elements – the towers and the various palm trees creating a dynamic frame, though the large palm on the left does fight for attention a bit, almost leaning into the frame like it's photobombing. You can pick out some of the intricate details on the facade, the balconies, and the ornamental carvings despite the bright light. The white border adds a touch of classic presentation, while the prominent watermark serves as a clear declaration of authorship – "Yes, *I* was here and I took this picture!"

The lighting is typical bright, sunny California; great for showing off that vibrant blue sky but posing challenges with contrast on the white stone. Fortunately, the exposure seems well-managed, avoiding blown-out highlights on the building while still retaining detail in the shadowed areas, although the palm fronds take on a slightly harsh, crunchy look. The color palette is dominated by the strong blues, the warm beiges of the castle, and the greens and browns of the palms, giving it a distinctly Mediterranean-Californian feel. Subject matter-wise, it's a bold clash of man-made extravagance and slightly unruly nature, which, let's be honest, perfectly sums up the whole vibe of Hearst Castle. It's a strong, if somewhat standard, shot capturing the iconic look of the place, reminding you that even architectural marvels sometimes have slightly scruffy neighbours.


Architectural Grandeur and Floral Folly

Rating: 8/10

This photograph captures a rather stately scene, juxtaposing the rugged, ancient beauty of a massive oak tree and a bed of vibrant hydrangeas with the ornate, almost whimsical architecture of a grand building lurking behind. It feels like stepping into a secret garden right next to a castle – the mood is one of quiet discovery and historical charm, perhaps a touch of 'where's Waldo?' if you're trying to spot all the carved faces on the building. The subject matter expertly combines elements of nature and man-made structures, creating a rich visual tapestry that tells a story of time and place, probably somewhere fancy where people wear monocles.

From a technical standpoint, the composition plays nicely with layers, leading your eye from the colorful explosion of hydrangeas in the foreground, past the gnarled, moss-draped tree acting as a natural frame, and finally to the intriguing details of the building's facade. The lighting is a bit dappled through the leaves, giving a lovely texture to the tree, but the building seems bathed in a consistent, gentle light, which is good for showing off those intricate carvings without harsh shadows. The colors are rich and varied, from the cool blues and purples of the hydrangeas to the earthy greens and browns of the tree and the warm tones of the building's terracotta details. It's a classic approach to capturing architectural and landscape elements, perhaps leaning towards the picturesque style, though that watermark in the corner, while tastefully placed, does remind you this isn't just any old snapshot – it's *Preston Lau Photography*, ready to hang on a gallery wall, or at least on your particularly fancy fridge.


Mosaic Majesty

Subject Rating: 8/10

Step right up, or rather, dip a toe into this absolutely extra indoor pool that looks like it was plucked straight out of an ancient Roman emperor's fever dream. What's happening here is mostly a masterclass in standing still and looking fabulous – the marble statues are striking poses, the elaborate blue and gold mosaics are glittering under the warm lamp light, and the water is acting as the world's most impressive mirror. The mood is undeniably opulent and serene, like a very fancy bathhouse where no one is actually bathing. You can almost hear the faint echoes of toga-clad figures debating philosophy, or perhaps just complaining about the lack of inflatable flamingos.

From a photographic perspective, this shot makes excellent use of the pool's reflective surface, essentially doubling the visual impact of the already stunning décor. The composition places the waterline as a strong horizontal divider, balancing the upper architectural elements with their mirrored counterparts below. Lighting is key here, with the warm glow of the ornate lamps creating pockets of interest and contrasting nicely with the ambient light on the cooler blue mosaics. The color palette is incredibly rich, dominated by the deep blues and shimmering golds, which the photographer has captured with impressive detail and vibrancy, especially given the intricate patterns of the mosaics – truly a testament to a sharp lens and good exposure control. Capturing such detail on reflective, patterned surfaces while managing varying light sources is no easy feat, showcasing the technical skill behind this beautifully composed and well-executed image.


Waterworld: The Boom Boom Show

Subject Rating: 9/10

Welcome to the aquatic apocalypse, where rusty scaffolding and questionable safety signs are just part of the charm! This dynamic shot captures a prime moment of mayhem, featuring a performer unleashing a projectile from the foreground that connects with spectacular force on the main platform across the water. Smoke billows dramatically from the launcher, tracing the path of destruction towards a truly magnificent, fiery explosion. Two figures stand precariously close to the blast zone, embodying the high-stakes, theatrical mood of this performance piece. The scene is set on a murky waterway surrounded by a sprawling, industrial-wasteland set complete with nets, ladders, and enough salvaged metal to make a scavenger proud. Objects of note range from tires used as bumpers to discarded barrels and crates littering the docks, all contributing to the gritty, post-disaster aesthetic.

From a photographer's perspective, nailing the timing on this explosion is crucial, and this shot captures the peak of the blast beautifully, freezing the rapidly expanding fire and scattering debris with impressive clarity. The composition cleverly uses the smoke trail as a leading line, guiding the viewer's eye from the source of the action in the lower left towards the dramatic payoff on the right. Lighting is a fascinating mix: the warm, late-day sun (or perhaps supplementary light) illuminates the structures with a pleasant glow, while the explosion itself provides a fierce, bright source of light, creating intense highlights and deep shadows around the blast site. The reflections on the water add a touch of sparkle to the otherwise grim setting. Capturing this level of detail in such a chaotic, high-contrast scene requires a steady hand and excellent exposure management – truly a fiery performance, both on stage and behind the lens.


Title: Nailed the Landing... Sort Of?

Rating: 9/10

Well, that's one way to make an entrance! This image perfectly captures a moment of spectacular aviation drama – a plane making a rather dramatic, fiery splashdown. The subject, a plane crash/water landing spectacle, is inherently high-octane and gets a solid 9/10 for its sheer visual impact. What's happening is a controlled explosion of fire and water as the aircraft hits the surface, likely part of a stunt show or performance, judging by the dark mass of spectators visible in the background. The mood is intense and theatrical, like the grand finale of an action sequence, brimming with energy and controlled chaos. It's definitely not your average Sunday afternoon flyover.

From a technical standpoint, this shot is a cracker. The composition utilizes the diagonal line of the plane to create dynamic movement, leading the eye right into the fiery core of the action. The lighting is key here; the intense orange and red glow from the fire creates dramatic contrast against the dark environment, illuminating the plane and casting vibrant reflections on the water. The photographer clearly used a fast shutter speed to freeze the incredible splash of water spray, capturing every droplet and adding fantastic texture to the scene. The dark background is essential for isolating the brightly lit subject, making the drama pop. It takes skill to balance the exposure between the bright fire and the darker elements, capturing both detail and atmosphere in such a fleeting, explosive moment.


Fiery Descent into the Splash Zone

Subject Rating: 9/10

Talk about making an entrance! This image captures a moment of pure, unadulterated, fiery spectacle. Our subject, rated a daring 9/10 for their willingness to literally be on fire, is mid-air, performing a dramatic fall engulfed in vibrant flames, trailing a chaotic spray of water. It’s the kind of stunt that makes you simultaneously wince and cheer. The mood is undeniably intense and action-packed, a thrilling display of controlled chaos against the harsh backdrop of an industrial set. This isn't just a photo; it's a split second ripped from a high-octane performance, freezing the dynamic interplay of fire and water with the human element at its terrifyingly beautiful core.

From a photographic perspective, this shot is a triumph of timing and technique. The composition is dynamic, placing the burning figure slightly off-center, following their descent into the spray, which adds a brilliant texture and highlights the speed of the fall. The lighting is dramatic, with the fierce orange and yellow flames providing a stark, high-contrast highlight against the darker, muted tones of the rusty, industrial scaffolding and corrugated metal structures behind. The motion blur, particularly noticeable in the background, isn't a flaw but enhances the sense of rapid movement and energy, likely achieved through a deliberate pan or capturing the subject's velocity with a fast shutter speed. It’s a fantastic capture that uses the environment and the elements to amplify the inherent drama of the stunt.


Waterworld Wipeout
Rating: 8/10 (Subject)

This isn't your average leisurely Sunday cruise; it's pure, unadulterated aquatic chaos! The image throws us headfirst into what appears to be an action-packed scene, likely from a stunt show like Waterworld, where two figures navigate a speeding small boat through turbulent waters. The man, eyes fixed forward, seems to be reaching or directing, while the woman pilots the craft with determination. The mood is intense and urgent, amplified by the dramatic plumes of smoke and a raging fire blazing on the larger, dilapidated structure looming in the background. This background, a cluttered floating platform adorned with old tires, barrels, and crates, looks like a scene ripped straight from a post-apocalyptic junk heap, adding to the gritty, dangerous atmosphere of the performance.

From a photographic perspective, the composition effectively places the dynamic action boat in the foreground, pulling the viewer into the frame. The lighting is a mix; bright sun glints off the water, highlighting the spray, while the smoke diffuses the light in the background, creating that hazy, dramatic look. The vibrant oranges and reds of the fire provide a fantastic contrast against the cooler blues of the water and the muted tones of the boats, although that beautiful, atmospheric smoke does a great job of obscuring finer details in the distance – a common challenge when shooting pyrotechnics! The photographer has successfully captured a peak moment of action and drama, making you wonder what explosive event just occurred or is about to happen next.


Splash Mountain Mayhem
Subject Rating: 8/10 – Capturing pure theme park exhilaration!

This shot plunges you right into the heart of a classic log flume ride, possibly just before a big drop, if the panicked and thrilled expressions are anything to go by. Our wooden log vessel, complete with an adorable, slightly deranged bunny face carved into the front, is filled to the brim with a lively bunch of adventurers. The mood is a perfect cocktail of nervous anticipation and absolute joy – observe the front-row riders: one is yelling with gusto while the other is mid-giggle, clutching the handles like they're the only thing preventing them from being launched into orbit. Behind them, a couple braces themselves, hands gripping the edge, while another sports a fabulous tie-dye shirt adding a pop of vibrant color to the scene. The dynamic movement of the water churning around the boat adds to the sense of speed and impending splash.

From a photographic standpoint, the high-angle composition is spot on, giving a unique perspective that emphasizes the ride vehicle and the environment it's navigating. The framing perfectly balances the lush, almost jungle-like greenery on the left bank with the rugged, rocky, reddish-brown terrain on the right, creating a visual tunnel effect that guides the eye towards the action. The natural lighting, appearing soft and diffused, avoids harsh shadows, allowing for clear detail on the subjects and vibrant rendering of the colors, especially the striking greens and the multi-hued tie-dye. It's a candid, photojournalistic style shot that masterfully freezes a fleeting moment of peak emotion and action on a beloved amusement park attraction, complete with the photographer's signature watermark discreetly placed, just in case you needed proof someone brave enough to stand near the splash zone took this fantastic picture.


Disneyland Rhapsody in Blue
Subject Rating: 8/10

The image captures the vibrant energy of a marching band parading through what is clearly Disneyland, with the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle visible in the background. The subject, a lively group of musicians in striking blue and white uniforms, rates an 8 out of 10 for their infectious enthusiasm and colorful spectacle. The mood is bright, cheerful, and full of the kind of infectious optimism you expect from a theme park parade. We're right there with the crowd, practically able to feel the pavement vibrate as the band marches past. A particularly friendly member wielding a saxophone gives a direct wave to the camera, adding a personal touch to the performance.

From a photography perspective, the composition places the viewer in the midst of the action, utilizing the band's formation to create a sense of movement leading forward. The bright daylight illuminates the scene well, highlighting the glossy gold of the instruments and the distinctive blue feathers on the hats, although the harsh midday sun predictably introduces some strong shadows. The colors are vibrant and punchy, perfectly capturing the lively atmosphere. The background, while slightly softer focused, clearly establishes the magical setting. It's a great documentary-style shot that captures the essence of a lively event, proving that even a simple wave can turn a good parade photo into a great one – just try not to trip over the tuba while taking it!


Inside Out Parade Float Fun (and Sadness)
Rating: 7/10

Well, isn't this just a microcosm of the human mind rolling down the street? Here we have Joy, living up to her name with boundless energy, arms pumping like she's just discovered the perfect core memory, alongside Sadness, looking... well, exactly like Sadness. They're riding on what appears to be Bing Bong's trusty wagon, complete with his rainbow rocket exhaust and signature broom, surrounded by a delightful scattering of what one can only assume are Memory Spheres that didn't quite make it to Headquarters storage. The mood is a peculiar mix of vibrant exuberance from Joy and a healthy dose of relatable melancholy from Sadness, perfectly capturing the essence of these beloved characters amidst the lively parade atmosphere.

From a photographic perspective, capturing the dynamic duo in a parade setting is always a fun challenge. The composition places our emotional stars front and center, though the busy foreground with camera-wielding spectators reminds us this is a live event – a common hurdle in street or parade photography. The lighting is typical midday sun, which, while bright and helping the vibrant colors pop, also creates some harsh shadows and highlights. It's a tricky balance to expose correctly, though the photographer has done a decent job of keeping the main subjects reasonably well-lit. Despite the environmental challenges, the shot successfully freezes the action and conveys the characters' personalities and the energetic (or lack thereof, in Sadness's case) vibe of the moment. It's a lively snapshot, even if Sadness is clearly contemplating the existential dread of being a parade float passenger.


Aquatic Ascent: A Dolphin's Jump
Rating: 8/10

This image plunges us right into the heart of an aquatic performance, capturing the spectacular moment a dolphin launches itself high out of the deep blue water. The dynamic subject, sleek and powerful, is frozen mid-leap, a testament to both the animal's athleticism and the photographer's timing. Below, a performer in a bold purple and black patterned wetsuit strikes a dramatic pose, arms outstretched as if conducting the very air the dolphin is soaring through. The mood is undeniably energetic and theatrical, filled with the vibrancy of movement and the brilliant hues of the water. The background is a riot of sparkling, ruffled blue, highlighting the liquid element central to the scene, while the white spray around the dolphin adds a touch of wild, uncontained energy to the otherwise controlled performance.

From a photographer's standpoint, the composition is strong, utilizing the vertical format effectively to emphasize the dolphin's impressive height above the water. The placement of the human figure in the lower frame provides context and scale, grounding the airborne subject, although her face isn't visible, which keeps the focus on the dolphin's action. The lighting appears bright, successfully freezing the fast-moving subjects and the chaotic beauty of the splashing water with a clearly quick shutter speed – a critical technique for such a shot. The color contrast between the vivid blue water, the dark dolphin, and the eye-catching purple wetsuit is excellent, making the subjects pop. While it's a superb capture of a peak moment, a touch more detail could potentially be pulled from the shadows on the dolphin's skin. The presence of the photographer's watermark is, of course, necessary branding, though its size and placement are quite assertive, almost vying for attention with the performer in the corner. It’s a well-timed and colorful action shot, perfectly encapsulating the thrill of a dolphin show, with the human adding a touch of interpretive flair that might or might not be recognized by the marine star.


Showtime Splash!

Rating: 8/10

Three magnificent marine acrobats, rated a solid 8/10 for their synchronized aerial flair, launch themselves from the deep blue pool, creating a cascade of sparkling water. These dolphins are the undeniable stars, captured mid-flight at the peak of their leap. Behind them, a chorus line of human performers clad in vibrant purple wetsuits strike various poses on a multi-tiered, brightly colored stage adorned with abstract wave and plant designs, adding a layer of theatrical performance to the scene. One individual is visible near the edge of the pool, seemingly interacting with another dolphin still in the water. The setting is a well-lit outdoor arena under a bright sun, the intense light creating sharp contrasts and brilliant reflections on the water's surface, giving the whole scene an energetic and dramatic mood.

Photographing these dynamic performers requires quick reflexes and precise timing – capturing multiple dolphins at the apex of their jump, in focus and well-composed, is a testament to the photographer's skill. The composition effectively uses the dolphins as the primary foreground subject, with the human element and the elaborate stage setting providing context and depth. The vibrant blues of the water and stage contrast nicely with the purple costumes and the more subdued, earthy tones of the background buildings, which feature classic terra-cotta roofs and lush greenery, anchoring the fantastical stage setting to a more realistic environment. It's a classic performance capture, full of energy and movement, showcasing the highlights of a dolphin show. The visible watermark reminds us that this high-action moment was skillfully frozen in time by the photographer, Preston Lau, a true triumph of timing over slippery, unpredictable subjects!


Splash Zone Spectacle

Rating: 8/10

This electrifying shot captures the pinnacle of aquatic showmanship! Front and center, stealing the spotlight with a truly magnificent breach, is a charismatic Orca, rated a solid 8/10 for its sheer presence and splash-generating prowess. The mighty creature is caught mid-air, mouth agape in what looks like either a triumphant roar or perhaps just letting out a hearty laugh at the crowd's impending soaking. A massive curtain of water spray explodes around it, adding a dynamic texture to the scene and likely delighting (or drenching) those in the front rows. The mood is undeniably exciting and lively, a perfect summer day spectacle unfolding in a carefully designed environment. In the background, a large, artificial rock formation provides a dramatic backdrop, flanked by lush green trees that offer a touch of nature even in this man-made arena. To the right, rows of bleachers packed with a diverse crowd of spectators create a vibrant human element, their faces a mix of awe, excitement, and perhaps anticipation of the cool spray.

From a photographic perspective, capturing this moment was a challenge well met. The composition places the Orca effectively off-center, leveraging the rule of thirds to create a more dynamic image than if it were dead center. The sheer volume of the splash frames the subject and adds incredible energy. Lighting is typical bright, sunny daylight, resulting in strong contrasts and vibrant colors, particularly the stunning blue of the water. While the highlights on the splash are blown out, it's almost unavoidable with such a bright, fast-moving subject against dark areas. The depth of field is sufficient to keep the Orca sharp while allowing the background elements – the rocks, trees, and cheering crowd – to provide context without being overly distracting. It's a classic action shot that perfectly encapsulates the energy of a marine park show, reminding photographers that sometimes, you just gotta embrace the splash zone chaos for the shot!


Aircraft Carrier Crowds & Silhouettes

Subject Rating: 8/10

Welcome aboard the floating city of steel! This photo captures the bustling deck of a decommissioned aircraft carrier, likely transformed into a museum, on a bright, perhaps slightly hazy, day. The main subjects are the impressive array of vintage military aircraft and the throng of visitors exploring them. People are scattered across the vast deck, some standing in groups, others walking along the marked pathways, all silhouetted against the bright sky. On the left, a large helicopter sits under a maintenance crane, its complex shape flattened by the backlighting. To the right, a sleek jet fighter (possibly an A-4 Skyhawk) is prominently displayed near the massive island superstructure of the carrier, complete with its towering mast, radar, and flags. The sheer scale of the vessel is palpable, making the people look like tiny ants scurrying across a giant's playground. It perfectly captures the experience of visiting such a historical leviathan – a mix of awe at the machinery and the simple act of being a tourist navigating its vast spaces.

From a photography standpoint, this shot is a masterclass in embracing challenging light. The photographer has bravely shot directly into the sun (or very close to it), creating dramatic silhouettes that define the scene. This choice simplifies the complex details of the aircraft and people into graphic shapes, emphasizing form and movement over texture and color. The composition uses the leading lines on the deck to draw the eye into the scene, past the foreground crane and helicopter towards the larger island structure and the distant horizon, where hazy shapes of other vessels hint at the ship's original environment. The strong backlighting washes out much of the color, resulting in a high-contrast image dominated by dark shapes against a bright sky with wispy clouds. While it loses detail in the shadows, this stylistic choice effectively conveys the feeling of being on a sun-drenched, open deck, creating a memorable and visually striking image of a busy tourist day on a piece of history.


Unconditional Surrender... of Parking Spaces?

The Subject (Giant Kiss Sculpture): 8/10

Alright, feast your eyes on the colossal bronze (or whatever it is) embodiment of post-war passion! This isn't just *a* kiss, it's *the* kiss, scaled up to remind everyone that sailors and nurses apparently really went for it back in the day. Surrounding this monument to smooching is a classic tourist scene: folks milling about, pointing, and diligently trying to get a selfie that includes the entire 25-foot statue without falling over. The mood is pretty standard tourist fare – a mix of awe at the size and the low-level buzz of people navigating a crowded public space. Relevant objects include benches offering a ringside seat to history's most famous kiss, strategic trash cans (romance can be messy, I guess), and the ubiquitous phones capturing it all. The background? A sprawling parking lot filled with cars, offering a starkly mundane contrast to the epic romance happening center stage.

From a photographer's standpoint, the high-angle perspective here is key, giving us this panoramic view of the statue, the surrounding plaza, and the rather uninspiring parking lot beyond. It effectively places the sculpture within its environment, showing its scale relative to the people and cars. Compositionally, the pathways and geometric paving patterns lead the eye towards the central subject, although the busy foreground and cluttered background detract slightly from the statue's impact. The lighting, unfortunately, looks like harsh midday sun, creating deep shadows and bright highlights which flatten textures and make details a bit challenging in some areas. While it captures the scene factually, a different time of day might have offered softer light and more dramatic shadows, elevating the artistic feel beyond a simple documentary shot. Still, it's a solid record of the scene, capturing the spectacle and the public interaction with this rather large display of affection.


Title: Ceremony on the Deck of a Steel Giant
Rating: 9/10


Standing tall and proud against the blue sky is the formidable grey hulk of the USS Midway (identified by her hull number 41), a retired aircraft carrier now serving as a floating museum and evidently, a rather unique event venue. The scene captures the colossal scale of this former war machine, with its intricate mast laden with radar dishes and aerials reaching for the sky, the stars and stripes fluttering defiantly, and a cascade of colourful signal flags adding a touch of nautical ceremony. Juxtaposed against this backdrop of naval might are hundreds of pristine white chairs neatly arranged on the deck, suggesting a formal gathering or celebration is imminent – perhaps someone is finally getting married on the deck where jets once roared, ignoring the rather ominous "BEWARE OF JET BLAST PROPS AND ROTORS" warning sign located strategically near the seating. The grandeur of the vessel and the simple elegance of the event setup create a fascinating contrast, offering a glimpse into the ship's second life entertaining guests rather than launching aircraft.

From a photographic standpoint, the composition effectively emphasizes the verticality of the ship's superstructure against the relatively clear sky, though a slight tilt (either in the ship or the camera) might make landlubbers feel a touch of seasickness. The bright sunlight creates strong shadows, highlighting the ship's robust structure and texture. The colours are dominated by the battleship grey, punctuated by the vibrant flags and the stark white of the chairs, which serve as interesting leading lines drawing the eye deeper into the scene towards the people gathered. The distant cityscape in the background grounds the vessel in its urban environment. It's a compelling subject, showcasing both the history of naval power and the adaptability of these incredible structures. The watermark, while necessary for attribution, does occupy a noticeable space over the chairs, perhaps suggesting a future event where the photographer's name might be part of the décor.


Carrier Deck Gazers

Subject Rating: 7/10

On the historic deck of what appears to be the USS Midway museum, two young visitors stand silhouetted against the bright sky, their attention fixed on the impressive lineup of military aircraft. A young boy in glasses and a girl with a ponytail are positioned in the foreground, their bodies angled towards the planes, indicating a shared moment of curiosity and wonder. In the background, various aircraft, including fighter jets, a helicopter, and a distinctive E-2 Hawkeye with its large radar dome, are parked along the deck. Small groups of other visitors can be seen milling about, taking in the sights on a sunny day. The scene evokes a mood of educational exploration and the awe that powerful machinery inspires, especially in young minds.

From a photographic perspective, the composition effectively uses the children as foreground elements to guide the viewer's eye towards the main subjects – the aircraft – and the vastness of the flight deck. The harsh backlighting creates strong silhouettes of the children, making them graphic shapes rather than detailed portraits, a trade-off for capturing the brightly lit background. The color palette is dominated by the steely grey of the deck and planes and the hazy blue/white of the sky, punctuated by the bright yellow lines on the deck. An interesting diagonal line of tiny lights stretches across the upper part of the frame, adding an unexpected linear element. While the lighting is challenging for detail, it does lend a certain atmospheric quality to the image, though perhaps a different time of day or lighting setup would better showcase the children's expressions alongside the planes. The photographer's watermark is clearly visible in the lower right corner.



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