@simon, just minor processing tweaks for spots I didn't get quite right... not noticeable improvement i suppose for anybody but myself. it's because I forgot to view it on multiple screens. i try to make images that I can view on different monitors and not be bugged by anything. so there are some darks/shadows i'd have burned down more in spots

a mini plate based pocket tripod then balanced on top of a broken plastic water cup found in the street stuck onto the top of a pointed fence post for a flat surface.

Strong lines, dramatic processing - and sharp. Just a lovely capture all around.

I'm guessing it was the swing of a birdcage?

Powerful and dramatic. The dominant static structure is wonderful well silhouetted against the dramatic sky - helped by that great Californian light. Not sure how you could improve on this?

Hectic hungry! Nice bokeh!

This one for sure. Characteristically speaking, lots of grunginess to love here.

Interesting the Kansas comment too as Kim said something similar when she saw this version.

You are talking only with this new phone cam, right? So this shot and the couple of the church... I'm not sure the answer. I'd guess it's the lens since you noticed it with the church shots too. now I'm going to be trying to remember to look at the wall outside the gym. the church is only a few blocks from the gym here though so maybe it's some quirky brick laying!

there has also been a hefty amount of noise reduction in these shots from the camera/phone defaults. that could be factoring here.

One thing I have noticed is that the various brick walls you've pictured is the apparent curved vertical mortar joints; the horizontals seem fine. Is this my eyes, an illusion shared by others, a real expression of the lens, or quirky bricklaying?

I agree with Abigail's choice, but the b&w is very close.

You're not holidaying in Kansas are you?