Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

I would love to hear some critique so I can improve. I have more photos but thought one would be a good start.

Thanks for your input.
Carol

RickH Loc: Toronto, Canada

beautiful; really like the soft focus on this one

jonsommer Loc: Usually, somewhere on the U.S. west coast.

I looked at this photo for several minutes before I decided to post some comments, and you said that you wanted to learn (as do I) so hopefully I can share some of my experience that can benefit you, but they are only my opinions and we are all searching for our own artistic sensibilities, so feel free to not agree. What struck me first was the similarity of color between the backdrop and your models skin color that I thought almost blended together nicely, what struck me next was the beauty of your model and her beautifully rounded 'tush'. I'm not as pleased with your soft focus, especially in her hair, to me it looks like you imported the background color but didn't want to take the time, or maybe you didn't know how to do that without smudging the edges and detail in her hair. Then I noticed the hot spot on her left arm that to me looks like an exposure mistake and detracts from the overall beauty of the photo. Then I noticed the little 'crease' line just below her bra and just above her waist, I know that it's a naturally occurring thing that happens but I found it jaringly distracting from the general overall softness I think you were trying to achieve and it's an easy 10 second 'fix'. I also know why it's there, but I would encourage to find a more subtle way to watermark your photos as I find the current way distracting in a way that it doesn't need to be. I'm also not quite sure that your pose adds to the story you are trying to tell, I kept asking myself why, other than to pose for you, would a beautiful young woman cling to the wall like that and I'm not sure I'm comfortable with the possible answers I came up with, perhaps especially since your model has a look of resignation or even distress on her beautiful face, or dread, even, as to what would happen next. I also think that (maybe) your story would have a clearer center of interest (her beautiful bum) if the garter thingy wasn't there, as now, for me at least, the center of interest is her equally beautiful face that for me, as mentioned above, has an expression that isn't consistent with the joy of disrobing and what you are implying is coming next. So, here's my final suggestion, try the next pose on a black background that her black under garments would blend as well with as her skin tones blend with the current background, compare the two and see which one you like best. Overall, this photo is so close to being outstanding, that I thought it deserved much critique more than I would usually give. Thanks for reading, and I would be interested in seeing any response to my critique you may have. Jon

CResQ Loc: Cobble Hill, BC

Jon, you have given Carol a well thought and very constructive critique on her image, one that she has the opportunity to absorb and learn from your expertise. Other members here will also learn from your advice including myself. Thank you my friend!

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Thanks so much Jon! I will think carefully about your critique. I totally understand your thoughts and I now have much more information and ideas for my next shoot. We were just playing around with location (my backyard) and she was standing like that and I took the shot. I also have other friends who asked for photos for their husbands and I will post them and hope you will continue to give an honest and informative critique. I learned a lot just by this. Thank you!

bdk Loc: Sanibel Fl.

I dont mind the crease in the small of her back, its natural from her turning. I also like the softness.
what draws my attention is the left arm..... the white draws my eye away from the rest of her, ( but it only takes a second and IM looking at her again)

still great shot...... I like it. and Im sure better than I can do,

PaulG Loc: Western Australia

I think this is a fabulous shot Carol, and technically very sound. With this sort of photography there has to be some kind of end plan in mind and you seem to have done that. The pose is very natural and "unforced." The image is sensual even though you would probably see more flesh down the beach. There is a suggestiveness about it that given the largely obscuring nature of the point of view (from the back) leaves you wanting more. The lighting is great with soft, delicate shadows and I love the similarity in hue of the flesh and background tones which gives a very pleasing overall appeal to the image - soothing, peaceful and harmonious. The crop is very effective; no need to see the entire leg length. And the half-portrait completes the whole mood and results in a very tactful and delicate photograph. You've made good use of the essential elements of pose, lighting, crop, "story" to produce an image to be proud of. Terrific shot.

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Thanks bdk!

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Thanks so much Paul, this is my first time doing photos like this..I appreciate the positive words.

flathead27ford Loc: Colorado, North of Greeley

Very nice, although I think you could have put the water mark somewhere less obtrusive. I like the softness of it too. Cheers.

RickH Loc: Toronto, Canada

or no watermark at all! tag it in the exif data instead...

Reinaldokool Loc: San Rafael, CA

Good to excellent pose. I notice that the fingers are posed well. Too often models splay their fingers and it disturbs the integrity of the photo. You got it perfect.
I am not as fond of the extreme soft image. This used to be very common in shooting nudes, but it is more pleasant to get perfect focus on the eye(s) and control the softness by depth of field and/or softer lighting.

The light on the left shoulder is problematic; but you already knew that.

I would like more definition in the hair. Sarah's hair is just one big black blob.

Gorgeous model, of course and you have a great pose that shows off her magnificent back.

I would have connected the garter-belt to the stockings, but that is a matter of preference. Both ways make a statement. The loose belt implies a transition moment while a snapped one would suggest a time to move on.

Excellent work.

twr25 Loc: New Jersey

I think the model can be soft lit but still sharp ... she blends into that background too much. I agree with the very first critique. It's still a very nice shot.

Bret Loc: Dayton Ohio

Yes very nice work on this...well done.

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Thanks for your comment TWR...This was my very first shoot with this type of photography. I have learned a lot from all of you and thank you. Unfortunately Sarah moved away and I don't have any chance of doing a remake.