(I received this as a comment request image, so I'm going to critique it)
Here's what I've noticed that could be improved about this photo:
1. The focus is good, but not great. I don't know if this is the cropped image or the original photo, but sometimes backing out of the frame and cropping afterwards can improve the sharpness of the image.
2. Make the image black & white; notice that there are only about three variations of gray. To me, there should be at least 5 tones of gray in a photo for a good tonal range - this will translate into stronger colors. Try upping the gamma/contrast of the image, then convert it to b&w and see how many tones you can get from there. If you can count about 5, I think your color image will be improved greatly.
I think that the composition is good & fairly uncluttered, which is really important for food images. The only thing I would take out would be the slice of fruit at the top and leave a little more space at the bottom (pushing the image upwards).
An excellent critique Bethany. Now my two cents worth. I like the depth of field. the main subject is the cut kiwi, designated to the left third, very sharp and nicely placed. The color on my screen looks rich but natural and I really hate that so many people oversaturate their images these days just because they can. Saturation does not always (in fact rarely does) enhance an image. So your color here is right on in my book. Love the detail in the skin of the frut. DoF goes from the fruit leading my eye right out of the range of focus to the first slice off at the top. That is not my center of attention and is rightly soft to me. I like how the table top texture comes through in the lower left area and then disappears at the top adding more depth - not easy to do on a colorless backdrop. Also no harsh shadows - very nice lighting technique. There are a couple of stray goobers (dust or spots on your lens?) I would have cleaned up because they're more noticeable on the white. The mind prefers odd numbers so I say both slices should remain for a more pleasing image. I think this is an excellet photo. Just goes to show you how purely subjective art is folks so don't take those c indexes so darned seriously! anne =D
Critiquing art of any kind is utterly subjective. When I vote on your images, I look at several things. First, my initial gut reaction. Then, is it straight (if it should be); is the color correct or if intentionally saturated or desaturated, was it done properly and does it enhance the image; composition - if you intended a bulls-eye, unless it's an outstanding image that is really served by centering the subject, it'll get dinged; is the horizon dead center - again, unless there's an obvious reason that makes it a better photo, no points; is the subject interesting and uncluttered; is the image sharp; is the depth of field right for this composition, is there a catchlight in the creature's eye; would I hang this on my wall; is it an image I'd be proud to display; is it artistic or just a snapshot; does it move me; is there a message conveyed; is it documentary in nature and if so, does it tell the story in such a way it makes me want more. When I critique a photo in your gallery, I'm only suggesting what my subjective nature prefers. No need to defend your position if you like your image the way it is. If you give me constructive criticism on my pieces, I guarantee you I will take them to heart. I love to improve! Bring it on Caedians! Love, anne =D