Black Suits

[Tuna]

[Seb]

Tuna,

This image is quite striking but I find the noise to be too much for my taste. To me, it really looks like the kind of noise I might get at ISO1600 rather than a smoother, analog noise that would work in such a scene.

I also think that there could be more space both at the left and right end of the frame. The main bench is really close from the frame on the left side. As for the right side, I assume that you haven't cropped the right bench in order not to crop the trellis on the wall. However, I think that we should see more of the right bench since it is there. Otherwise, it become somewhat distracting (to me at least).

There is a strong graphic quality to your picture but I think that few minor adjustments would take it to the next level.

regards

Seb

[GB1]

ha.. I was expecting something like "Men in Black" from the title.

Decent human expression shot, but it could be improved in many areas. Could have been a little closer to the subjects and got more of their facial expressions in the photo (I think). The sharpness is somewhat wanting... and the grain is noticable (I know that B&W film hasn't kept up with color as far as getting rid of the grain).

The bright spot in the center of the photo is distracting... not sure what that is (flash?). Though I like the straight on angle of the shot, the composition of the objects in the photo is only fair. I guess the strongest part of the photo is the overall contrast of the black suites against the white wall and the geometry.

[Dzerzhinski46]

Dear Tuna,

Not so much "Men in Black" as "Austin City Limits". I don't actually find the grain offensive. I am guessing Delta 3200 or something like that. The one thing I would do is crop some of the right side, almost right up to the bench. This would place both the men off center, much more pleasing, and it would get rid of the other bench. A good, strong composition.

Drew

[PlantedTao]

My first thought was - Burt Reynolds in a black suit
I like this photo's composition. The bench and lattice work give a nice backdrop for the two men. The black suits look great for this photo, but my main critique would be the lack of interaction between the two. This photo would have been better with more action or expression from one or both men. Still a nice capture and I love the grain on this photo.
What film was used?
Do you ever use a filter when doing your B&W?

Cheers.

[Old Timer]

Tuna you always give us something to think about in your images. Love opening your post never know for sure what you will get. I like the whole idea of this image. The grain effect is fine I don't know why we always think it should be minimized it is a part of photography that has been with us form the early stages and can serve us well in many photographs. I agree with the above cropping sugestions and would have like to see a little more detail in the black areas of the suits and a little less burn out in the background behind the heads. Over all a very thought provoking image.

[mtbbrian]

Tuna,
You need to stop taking such wonderful photographs!!!
You are making the rest of us look bad!
;)
This is really a good photograph.
The moment is good, as is the timing of when you captured it.
Brian

[gahspidy]

I think this is fine. The grain works for me, as does the composition. I would not crop, I like seeing the part of the other bench on their left. I agree with OldTimer about a little detail in the black suits. It appears very contrasty and dark there. But, that was probably your intent, and although I may have a different personal preference this certainly works as it is. Good.

[jar_e]

Tuna,

I would try a vertical crop, incorporating the trellis, yet not the edges of it, and getting rid of the ends of both benches. I love the grain, very effect and great subject.

Nice shot,

Jared

[Knight]

Great capture Tuna were these guys posing for you ? Little croping would not hurt this photo theres plenty of subject matter here .As for the grain i dont think it hurts the photo, but may i suggest one thing , i tried a light sepia on your photo and it seemed to bring out a little more detail in the suits these gents are wearing. Love the expression on there faces. Again great capture

[Lava Lamp]

Really interesting fellas. My personal approach would be to crop to bring their body language and faces more to the focus of hte picture. The bench showing at right doesn't add anything IMHO. On the ohter hand, sometimes you can crop too much and you may be showing more restraint than Ihave.

[Tuna]

Thanks for all the feedback, guys. This image is a little rough around the edges due to a quick, handheld shot that ended up being a little under-exposed - causing a harsher appearance than I might have liked. Still thought the moment interesting and worth posting.

PlantedTao - This was shot on HP5 and I don't use filters anymore as most of the subtler effects can be achieved through channel mixing.

Tuna