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Great shot- very dynamic composition and great geometry to it. The contrast between the human elements and the hard, riveted, iron grabs our attention. The fact that we have no idea what will happen when that lever is drawn adds tension to it, although the casualness of the gloved hand on the left reassures the viewer that it won't be drastic. The repeating circular geometry at the top of the image, with the valves and gauge add an echo to the curve of the large pipe and the handle itself, even repeating again in the line of rivet heads on the iron divider at the bottom of the image. The black and white treatment seems to be the only way to go with such an image, and the bright curve on the handle draws the eye to the focal point, emphasized by the deep blacks in the background. Excellent image.

On another note, I am glad I saw this as it led me to your portfolio which is just spectacular- I will have to spend some quality time there as there are many, many, many wonderful images there to check out- (and most of them in B&W, as they should be!)

Mark