10

I don't know why this photo captures my attention so well. It always bubbles up to the top of my select lists.

I think it's because it has many elements for the eye, depth, and captures the scale of the arena. The backlighting makes it work by creating the distant silhouettes of people and roof trusses, and by highlighting the plexiglass along the boards. The diagonal created by the row of plexiglass panes is a strong compositional element that draws the eye effortlessly to the person active in the photo.

Perhaps it's as simple as this woman. She's interesting. She's quite active despite being confined to the stands. The glare highlights her hand on the glass, a subtle but strong kind of gesture. Is she an injured roller derby skater? A sidelined coach? Former teammate?

What is she looking at? Who is she shouting at, talking to, try to get the attention of? The photo leaves you wanting more. It takes you to that moment in the crowded arena where, if we were there, we'd next turn our heads to see what the fuss is about.

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