American Flag in fires

[Mac]

Hi. This is my first post here. Unfortunately, the picture was not taken by me. It was taken by my uncle during the wildfires here in CA. He wanted me to see how others liked it before he decided to frame. I am in process of buying a Sony DSC-F717 camera now, so hopefully I will soon have some of my own pictures here for others to critique. Thanks in advance for the critique and any advise you can give a beginner photographer.

[natatbeach]

When taking into consideration the stories and circumstances behind why a photo was taken is really important and taking that into consideration I have to say that's it sets a very good feel for does moments especially if you experienced them first hand. The flag a commonly found and overlooked sight in this shot tattered and clouded by clouds of smoke really gives you a feel for the despair .

Not taking into account the circumstances on a technical level---the red glare or spot is very distracting and really detracts from the image (clone it out) and I would some how remove the bit of tree line down on the bottom

just my two cents...welcome aboard and I really look forward to you and your uncle sharing more with us

[Mac]

When taking into consideration the stories and circumstances behind why a photo was taken is really important and taking that into consideration I have to say that's it sets a very good feel for does moments especially if you experienced them first hand. The flag a commonly found and overlooked sight in this shot tattered and clouded by clouds of smoke really gives you a feel for the despair .

Not taking into account the circumstances on a technical level---the red glare or spot is very distracting and really detracts from the image (clone it out) and I would some how remove the bit of tree line down on the bottom

just my two cents...welcome aboard and I really look forward to you and your uncle sharing more with us

Thanks Natalie. The red spot is the sun trying to shine through the smoke. Once I get more familiar with PS, maybe I can do some of the things you mentioned. And yes, despair was definitely there. The flag in this picture is th flag on our home. My uncle took it as I was spraying our roof down with a hose. Pretty scary times. I feel blessed we came out of it alright and my heart goes out to those who did not fare as well.

Brian

[bjtindle]

I like the photo, but that may be because for me, like you, it has a special meaning.

The sun shining through the smoke is an integral part of the picture because it gives more emphasis to the problems being faced that day, to me anyway. You can also see the effect the wind is having on the flag which is wrapped around the pole at the top of the flag pole several times and the strain is showing on the flag. The tree branches on the right look as if they have already been effected by the smoke and fire shown by the way they positively seem to droop. I like the picture. It saddens me, but I do like it. Very much.


I am originally from San Diego, driving there next week in fact, but all of my family was evacuated, and my family lives in a 25 mile radius of each other. From Santee to behind Valhalla high school. Such a wide area, and there were more areas affected than just where my family was!! It was very scary trying to get hold of them and find out if they were all ok. I hope you and your family made it through it all fine. Like you said, many did not. If you know anyone who still might need help have them call my aunt, Bucky Blottin, at the Lion's club! She is a great lady and has become very involved in this. Sorry for the long side note.

Have to say, I have embarrassed myself, wrong area of fires. Should have remembered you were talking about Simi Valley. Please forgive me.

Betty