I don't think I really did this one justice, but thought I'd post it anyway as its not a complete write off.

Taken in my local library , I loved the look of the guy absorbed in the book as the bright light was streaming in through the window. Unfortunately that combination also makes for a really tricky exposure if you want to retain any shadow detail, and I think that's where I ought to have done better. Unfortunately the last thing I wanted was for the guy to be disturbed and realise I was grabbing the shot, especially as I was only a few feet away, so I couldn't spend too long on standing in front of him fiddling with my camera settings!

Thanks for looking

matt

http://mattgcp.smugmug.com/photos/23061574-M.jpg

Hi Matt,
He is Rodin's Thinker with clothes on. The tight environment enhances the self-absorbing image of the gentlement. I can also feel the quietness of the library through your capture. Well done!
yoyo

Hi Matt,

I think you had great potential for a character study here. I will make two suggestions for next time....

First, I would have gone for a tighter shot. This may have allowed more control of the exposure, and it would bring greater focus on the subject. However, if you were working with a non-zoom lens -- I can see why you would respectfully opt-out.

Secondly, I would have tried sitting down and shot at the eye-level (or lower) of the subject.

Anyway, it is a nice image and certainly caught my attention.
BR,
Tim

thanks for the comments guys.

Tim - as I was taking this as a candid, my framing options were limited. I was right out in the open, there was no reason at all for me to be standing there doing nothing, so if I'd stopped for more than a moment I'd have been spotted by everyone (and possibly been told by the librarian not to hassle the other library users!). Squatting down may have worked I suppose - if I'd suddenly become very absorbed in my shoelaces! Your suggestions are very valid though, and with the subjects cooperation this could have made a good portrait.

Cheers

matt

I agree with all the comments and yes you are probably right not to disturb the man. Then again when i think of all the times i have let chances drift by !! You could have taken this shot and then approached him and explained how you would like his permission to take a composed pic of him and offered him a copy of the final result. He could only say no otherwise............
Bobby