Tim, when one can be both honest and polite at the same time, then it's a wonderful combination. Have to give you my honest opinion on this post now. Hope you won't see this that I'm not polite to you.
Capturing a waving flag in the darkness is is an impossible thing to do when the image shouldn't be blurry. Knowing your extremely good photograpic skills, I was asking myself what your intention was to post such an image. Suppose it was your goal to have this kind of blur in your image. I was guessing for the reason and guessing what you like to express with it, but couldn't find the answer yet. Can it be that I've become too old fashioned for this stuff now? I'm curious for the answer.
Best regards my friend, Cornelius.

My settings were; ISO 1250 (actually more as I pushed it in post) - F/4 - 1 sec,
I could have used flash to freeze the action, but chose not to as this image shows a fairly sharp pole while creating some movement/action on the flag itself,
I think it adds some dynamism with regards to a completely frozen image that just captures what any visitor could have seen,
My image distinguishes by creating a certain mood, whilst leaving the subject recognisable,

Hope that clarifies my reasoning

Kind regards
Tim

Save the political crap for the voting booth. This is flag desecration. A lot of military folks put their lives on the line for this flag and still do. As for the "poor" prisoners on Alcatraz, 99% of the bastards were killers and rapists, so they deserved being there.

Tim, as I already said above, you must had a reason to capture it this way. It's clear to me now. Thanks for the explanation.
Regards, Cornelius.

It's an interesting idea Tim and I see it's sparked some debate and controversy. I applaud you for constantly trying new stuff. I have to say that in this case it doesn't work for me - Cornelius is right that you set yourself an impossible task here, although I have read and understand your reason. I understand the political sensitivity voiced above too, although, having met you, I know you would never have wanted to offend anyone. So on this occasion I have to say it's an interesting experiment but, in my view, not one that's produced a good image. But don't stop experimenting my friend!

Took quite a beating with this one, did you Tim?

I see both sides to the passionate argument that ensued.

And for having provoked a strong reaction in creating and posting this image and for this site allowing for the creative and artistic expression ... I say ... well done. Sincerely.

If I may, think the somewhat visual indistinguishability of the 'blood' from that of a 'flaming flag' ... might have lead to some coming forward with their thoughts as well. Not sure.

Going to close by echoing Nigel's words above, those being these here;

"But don't stop experimenting my friend!"

Good composition and well-balanced.

The lighting gradient serves to anchor that of your subject's focal subject ... that at first and passing glance ... appears to be a bit 'top heavy'.

The competing elements work well to my eyes, even the noise issue ... hence, 'well-balanced' indeed. However, the star/moon could be more apparent. Just my thoughts.

Mediocrity is not a good good place. 'Nuff said.

p.s. Happy New Year to you and yours.

Hope my words here find all is well. :o)

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