[b.van_der_dylan]

I often see the comment that a shot is flat. What does this actually mean? Andrew

[chickadee]

I am not sure what everyone means when they refer to it , but ... i take it as the picture is maybe dull in colour on part or all of image.As most of the so called "flat " images are dull to some degree ,i aslo take it that some of the images may need a boost in photoediting to make them stand out bit more ,again may be part or all of a image.However have noticed this doesnot apply to all images that have been referred to as flat.
So like you , i will be interested to hear different views on this one

[stepheno]

A flat image is lacking in tonal range, a marked difference in tone between areas of the image. Also the image will be lacking in contrast so that no part of the image stands out, whether intentionally or not.

[b.van_der_dylan]

thanks , got a better understanding. I see the software I have has a few features which adjust contrast, I will experiment a bit see what the differences are like, cheers Andrew

[Dave Canon]

Poor tonal range and contrast as others have said. This is often the result of taking pictures in poor lighting conditions (a grey cloudy day).