Motorcycle by the lake

[Tyson L. Sparks]

A friend of mine and I rode down to a local lake (mud hole) after work one morning. I lined our bikes up in the boat unload area and snapped a few shots. I wanted the morning sunrise to make the picture pop. I don't think I did it. I am looking for some advise here guys. What could I do better.

[gahspidy]

Tyson, I think even though it was still early, the sun has got up a bit high and so it has become strong and somewhat harsh on the bikes. But that is not all too bad. I think more importantly you have to watch the backgrounds. The handlebars of both bikes are lost in the boat ramp or pier behind them. The pole and it's reflection touch the back of the green cycle.
I think lining them up near the waters edge with only the water behind them would get them to pop out of the photo more. Also, position the bikes a bit closer together so they are not each so close to the edge of your frame.

[Grandpaw]

I think having the sun hit the bikes more from the front instead of the rear would give more details of the motor and front end and not get lost in the shadows. Also taking the picture at about a 45 degree angle from the front instead of as much from the side would help, Jeff

[Jaedon]

I say line em up with the sun rising behind them and hit both bikes with a flash at about 45 degrees to one side.

But seriously. I agree with what Gahspidy said about the back ground. It takes away form the bikes as you are trying to figure out what they need to be complete.

Also don't be afraid to try shooting at an even lower angle. Lying prone on the ground will free up the background choices more as you should see nothing but sky and water if you do it just right.