Wow - Check it Out
Candid photography often turns out as uninteresting snap shots, the stuff that only a relative could enjoy. They are generally poorly composed, poorly lit shots of children at birthday parties or other holidays. The stuff that if seriously edited would result in most being thrown away, except they remain in a box at the back of the closet. It is rear that one means anything to the unbiased viewer.
This photograph is an exception to the candid shot rule. This charming image of a child and his grandfather enjoying a day at the air show has a universal message, the wonder of a child’s imagination. The grandfather also has that look of the young boy’s amazement and interest in this vintage aircraft. This is a symmetrical composition with the primary subject standing in the center of the frame with the structure mirrored on both sides of him. With both faces looking up our eye is drawn to the top of the frame.
I would like to suggest doing a little burning on the face of the child to take down the exposure about thirty to fifty percent. Also the photographer may want to consider coming in a bit closer to the subject. This could be done with a little cropping.
Click on Image 
Modified 
July 9th, 2008 at 7:21 am
Thanks, Jim. This pic was taken on the inside of a B-17 bomber at the Camarillo airshow a couple of years ago. The grandfather and grandson just happened to come in when I was in there. As usual, your suggestions are right on. I did tone down the exposure a bit to bring out more color in the boy’s face. But, I’ll follow up on your suggestion to burn the face some more. I’ll aslo crop in a bit more. I was reluctant to crop in any more than I did but after seeing your crop, I will.