Cycling motion blur

[schent1]

Here is a photo that I was playing with for the selective color challenge. I did not like the black and white affect on this photo so I tried this instead.

C & C is greatly appreciated.

[schent1]

Here is another variation of the same image

[Walter C]

Given the subject matter I like the motion blur effect in your first shot. Nice capture of the cyclists, BTW.

[Bynx]

The only noticeable problem I see is the cropping done on the arms. Particularly the riders right arm. Looking at your first one makes me think its possible to have a graduated motion blur that would increase as you move down the line using a mask and the graduation tool.

[smac]

I really like the first shot. I really works well with your subject matter. I'm not sure I see what Bynx is concerned with. It looks great to me. Well done.

[schent1]

Originally Posted by Bynx

The only noticeable problem I see is the cropping done on the arms. Particularly the riders right arm. Looking at your first one makes me think its possible to have a graduated motion blur that would increase as you move down the line using a mask and the graduation tool.

I only see a cropping problem on the left arm (which is on the right), is that the arm with the problem? I am using Elements for editing right now and could not find a way to blur only in one direction. I actually had to move the rider forward to cover some of the blur.

Thanks everyone for the comments.

[StitchBabe]

The first image is totally awesome and yes, it's a very good shot! Focus is definitely on the rider. The second shot is not as appealing as the texture applied to the image is competing with the subject matter.