Tew's Falls

A technically challenging single capture as the wispy falls and part of

the creek were in shadows while the green slopes and foreground were

in full sun. A polarizer & ND were used to slow the shutter so that a

handheld ND grad could be manipulated to reduce light on the green

slopes and foreground flow. A hot-shoe level was used as the falls were

windblown and it was difficult to judge vertical and horizontal. 17mm,

f22, 6 seconds.

Good subject you got, but doesn't mean it will (easily) make a good photo. The upper and lower half seems disjointed; probably because of the uneven lighting?

That diagonal line of bright greenery on the left seems to be too prominent and disruptive.

It needs simplification. Or if you don't want to eliminate any elements, feature one element/section, to the same effect of using a wide angle, a prominent foreground, and the rest sits complimentarily in the backgound. 

Joshua, thanks for explaining your reasons for your ratings.

I understand the comments above, as it seems like two photos in one.  However I can't envision a simplification being as good as the one you've got.  You have gone to a lot of trouble to balance the exposure and I think it is very well done.  Expensive filters do seem to make a big difference!  I love the bold green highlight!  The underexposed background may be a little too cool/blue.

I have been thinking about touring the falls of the Hamilton/Niagara Escarpment region for a few years now, but still have not done so.  This certainly gives me more inspiration to do so.

John, thanks for your comments and encouragement.  This is a challenging subject too in that the plunge fall is about 135 feet to a narrow creek.  I should mention that my short response re Joshua's critique was not meant to be dismissive; I plan to go back again on a gloomy day to see if I can yield simpler results with even lighting.  So thanks again to both of you for your perspectives.  Regards, Jeff