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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
7/22/2005 7:06:17 PM
I am really struck by this series. They are very nice.
I am reminded of Monet and his work with dresses and how much they lend to the emotional impact of an image. The three images in this series are so completely different emotionally. The only props are the garments themselves and they add so much to each image.
This image, as well as many others in your portfolio, is a really nice example of the emotive qualities that impressionism expresses so well. The blue dress really just shimmers and contrasts well with the red lips. This image contrasts very well with 1/x and is much more dark and earthly tones or 2/x that is so much warmer. When looking at all three, the model really does not add too much to the emotional feeling of the image, as the expression is very similar. Yet each image feels different because of the colors and the tonal qualities.
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| Photo By: Rada Marin
(K:1187)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
6/6/2005 8:25:06 PM
This image does not feel like a self-portrait. The reason is that I feel so intimately involved in the picture itself.
The photographer is cloaked in a heavy jacket and dark shadows. The eyes are always the most important part of any portrait and in this one they are perfect. The stare is hard and piercing. Indeed they are predatory and they look directly at the viewer.
The camera blow is what pulls the viewer in. It is not uncommon to find a camera in a self-portrait. However, the eyes with the heavy shadow give the image a dark and sinister feeling. With the camera pointing at the viewer, the divide between image and viewer breaks down and the viewer becomes part of this image as the camera and photographer emerge from out of the shadows.
I am certainly left with the feeling that the picture is being taken of me. However, the photographer and camera emerges from the shadows and I feel like I have been stalked until the exact right moment.
One thing that distracts from this theme is the exposed navel. The heavy coat and dark shadows imply the chill of the evening and an unbuttoned coat exposing a shirtless chest is a conflict to the over all mood. However, this is a minor flaw and is not significant to the over all theme of the image.
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| Photo By: Lukasz Rzeszotarski
(K:45)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
4/25/2005 5:38:53 PM
Brandon-
I am going to claim that my comments on Untitled #6 were not influenced by Untitled #3. However, looking at Untitled #3 may have made me think about racism a bit and tainted my view.
I also understand your idealism and the disappointment that resulted from it as your image was interpreted with such a negative subject matter.
It is interesting that you stated the intent of the image. In this respect Untitled #3 is much more successful. Indeed when I viewed that image the simple pleasures of childhood was what I saw. Yet the implication of missing it by being busy is missed. This is because of the people watching the child chase the ball are static and actually watching the child. They are actively watching the child and not missing anything.
Your project theme for Untitled #6 does not seem to fit. I am a busy individual that you seek to reach out to. I work full time as an Accounting Manager. I am a parent and have the obligatory responsibilities of sports and school that go along with it. I am also going to school full time perusing a BS in computers. I am busy. However, if I missed a ?4? painted on a wall I really do not feel I am missing anything important. Indeed I would guess that the ?4? is merely a marker for a parking space, an address or for informational purposes. If I do not stop and enjoy it, I am not missing anything.
A limitation of posting images on line is that they are done out of context. What I mean by that is that images by an artist cannot be assumed to be related to one another thematically or for any other reason. As such each image needs to be judged by alone without any context.
Untitled #6 is an atonal image with a faceless African-American male. I cannot use man because I do not know his age or maturity. Indeed even assuming sex may be a big leap. The overwhelming contrasts between black and white are difficult to ignore and with no other context to view this image, I do understand how it could be interpreted any other way. However, I am very open minded and if someone else can use the elements of this image to describe a message I would love to read them.
You are correct in your disappointment at racism being still an issue in a society that values freedom and equality. However, as long as people are too ?busy? to stop making quick judgements based upon superficial criteria, then it will continue to be a problem. There are many ways to change attitudes and artists contribute by adding to the dialogue. There is nothing wrong with adding to this dialogue.
Your disappointment in me being ?tempted? is really alarming. I am more disappointed in the people who sit on the sidelines and only express remorse when the issue comes up. This is a sort of passive way of ignoring the problem is it not? A sort of out of sight out of mind scenario is it not? As a budding artist, you have the opportunity to add to the social dialogue that addresses controversial issues. Do not steer away from themes that are distasteful or controversial because of their nature.
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| Photo By: brandon turner
(K:0)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
4/22/2005 9:14:05 PM
I have yet to try a roll of color film in my various Holgas. This is for two reasons. First I do not want to pay and wait for my film. Second, I do not want to give up complete control over my images.
When I first saw this image, I thought it was a B&W shot, gray wall, white number and black and white figure. When I clicked on it and saw the larger image, I still thought it was B&W. Only then did I realize this was in color.
This is a significant journey for the viewer to make with this image. My initial impression was that it was B&W and only after I got more familiar with the image did I realize it was in color. This is an important metaphor for judging something, in this case race, before all is known about the subject. I approached the image with a preconceived expectation and soon discovered I was wrong. I would never have fully appreciated this image unless I remained open minded and willing to not take a quick glance and just say ?very nice? or ?good shot?.
Preconceptions about photos or races will only prevent full enjoyment of what is offered.
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| Photo By: brandon turner
(K:0)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
4/22/2005 4:53:26 PM
Kisses make me blush.
Thank you for the wonderful photograph.
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| Photo By: lisa rose
(K:567)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
4/21/2005 4:45:49 PM
This is a very classic street photography photo.
The image is simple enough, a girl running along the beach. However, the image itself carries a lot of emotional impact.
The most difficult emotion to photograph is happiness. Sure one could photograph a group of smiling people, but often the smiles are staged for the camera and lacking something else. One could photograph a group of laughing people, but the viewer is on the outside looking in and is not engaged in the picture itself.
However, everyone has memories from childhood of running free without any concern other than the moment. This image allows the viewer to recall those moments and actually interact with this image. The girl is blurred and cropped at the waist making her anonymous to the viewer. As such, the viewer easily replaces the girl and projects into the image.
Powerful photography is not just pretty or technically pleasing, it creates a connection between the viewer and the photograph itself. This is a powerful image. What really sets this image apart is that is captures so very well an emotion that is so very difficult to photograph.
On a technical note, the image seems way to flat to me and would hold a viewer?s attention so much more with more contrast. I point to the sea foam that appears to be too close to neutral gray. It really needs to be much whiter.
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| Photo By: lisa rose
(K:567)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
4/15/2005 10:27:33 PM
A wonderful example of large format photography.
Certainly it is a reminder of the past when large format was the only option.
This image shows a remarkable control of plane of focus. Especially noticeable is how the tip of the fishing rod is out of focus. This really adds to the image as it prevents the eye from following the fishing rod and escaping from the image itself.
There is a very strong inverse triangle here as will really adding to the composition. Following the fishing rod to the fisherman and up to the tree in the distance. This is very well composed.
The out of focus background and the soft detail in the water add a magical element to this image that really elevates it above the rest. In addition, the use of extreme tilts to add the vignetting at the top frames this image wonderfully.
With all of these camera movements and planning it is very difficult for me to imagine that this was not a staged or at least well-planned shot. However, that in no way detracts from this image. Indeed, it reminds me of the photography done during the Civil War and just after where such techniques were used to express the lives of the people in the army and the Indians living on the plains.
This is a wonderful image that is flawlessly executed with strong composition and it conveys a wonderful sense of time and place.
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| Photo By: Kris Cox
(K:6)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
1/25/2005 10:31:53 PM
This is a very dark image and I understand why it is not getting much attention. It is very difficult to see in the thumbnail.
This is hardly a flaw however. Indeed, the dark tonality adds much to the image.
Time is central in this image. There is no motion or movement. This portrait is a pause and a moment of reflection for the subject and a moment captured for the viewer. The single natural light source and deep dark shadows are reminiscent of an earlier era of photography. When I opened this image I initially thought it was taken with a large format camera.
There are wonderful and subtle textures in the darkness. Enough to give depth to the image, but subtle enough not to distract.
I am a big fan of deep, dark pictures. I must confess though that there is no definition between the jacket, hat and the background. Yet I doubt that this would occur on a print. I am fairly certain that this is the result of a 35 mm negative being scanned and then compressed.
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| Photo By: Mark Orchard
(K:110)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
12/9/2004 8:40:42 PM
This is an image that disorients the viewer very well.
The image is intentionally blurred. Naturally, the mind associates this with being dizzy. In addition, the camera angle is very low, taken from waist level or if one was on their knees. It is very easy to feel disoriented when these factors are combined.
The perspective of the image draws the eye to the door at the other end. Doors lead out of a room or situation. With the disorientation the viewer feels, one longs to exit the room and to reach for the door.
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| Photo By: nocode K.
(K:0)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
12/9/2004 8:26:38 PM
This is a really nice portrait.
I love the lighting. It preserves all of the mood and feel of the Dutch Masters.
The colors, by and large, are very muted. Generally this makes a portrait like this without a point of interest. However, here you skillfully over come this by showing your subject with a red scarf. That red scarf grabs the viewer and does not let them go.
As a matter of taste, I would have preferred the eye not to be obscured by the shadow. I find that the eyes in a portrait are the most important part and hiding both of them leaves this portrait a bit cold.
This portrait shows a good mastery of light and how it relates to mood as well as your skill in making an image interesting to look at.
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| Photo By: Simona Alexe
(K:470)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
11/24/2004 11:48:58 PM
I just realized this.
Your color series has featured yellow, red and blue. A reference to the Columbian flag?
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| Photo By: Adriana Uribe
(K:975)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
11/24/2004 11:44:56 PM
Certainly the red in this image makes it very striking. The red is a wonderful match for the brown eyes and really pulls them out.
I would agree with the comment on the DOF. Although the eyes are the single most important part of an image and need to be in focus, having the foreground out of focus certainly is a distraction.
The lighting needs improvement. The single light source from picture left is hard and leaves a very unflattering and distracting shadow from the nose in the middle of the image. This shadow distorts the contour of the cheek and makes the cheek appear much larger than it should. Indeed, it appears almost swollen. It also flattens the nose and does not give it much definition.
The strong light also creates some hot spots on the tip of the nose and the cheek. Perhaps a little make-up could soften these a bit. The benefit of the strong light is the hot spots on the wig. Certainly those add highlights to the wig.
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| Photo By: Adriana Uribe
(K:975)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
9/23/2004 7:43:01 PM
A very good image without a subject.
Well, at least a subject that is only a part of the image.
DOF is central to this image. The forest beyond the field of focus is blurry, dark and foreboding. The only part that is in focus is a small patch of earth in front of the viewer in the foreground.
With the point of view being on the ground and from the title of the image, one has to naturally conclude that the image is about struggle. The viewer is made to think they are crawling along the forest floor and every inch traveled is a struggle and requires an enormous effort. The focus is just on the task at hand and being in a forest, there is a lot of work remaining.
The dark and blurry trees in the distance lend a dark mood to the image. The blur reminds one of the delirium that comes from an effort that is beyond one?s abilities. The dark shadows do not foreshadow a successful end to the struggle. Indeed, this image seems to be the final moments of a futile struggle. Rest is at hand, but only given by failure.
I do not like the immediate foreground in this image being out of focus. Although the narrow field of focus demonstrates a command of DOF by the photographer, this area acts as a barrier for the eye entering the image.
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| Photo By: Brian Preston
(K:0)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
9/13/2004 7:21:33 PM
Thank you Lori.
Looking at your portfolio, looks like we are from the same area. Indeed, we have shot the same subjects.
To the point though, this image is currently hanging at the LA County Fair, running through Sept. 26. I would highly recommend a visit to this show as it is very professionally done. It will probably be the last time one of my works hangs in the same museum as a Mary Cassat.
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| Photo By: Paul S
(K:894)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
9/10/2004 8:17:58 PM
Considering the abundance of flower shots, I am surprised that this has not received more attention.
This image is dark and brooding. The mood is heavy and somber. The flower, in contrast to the many others around, is imperfect.
The red and black gives this image a sinister feeling.
I believe that this is the first flower image I have ever commented on. Quite possibly it will be the last as well. But this image is not just a flower image. This image stands on its own with the mood and feelings it conveys. Certainly it is not some trite, gratuitous and cliché flower shot. It is much deeper and contains substance.
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| Photo By: Justyna Ortyl
(K:-159)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
9/9/2004 8:58:04 PM
This is a very simple with a group of 4 walking ahead toward the ocean. Whilst some images lead the viewer into an image, this one forces the viewer to participate in the image itself.
By following the group in, it is not a stretch to have the viewer become part of the group. Without seeing faces, the viewer makes no association with the group. Rather, the viewer is forced to use personal experience with being in a group and this is where the image gets its strength.
People are social and being part of a group is natural. However, this is no ordinary group. This group has a defined purpose. All but one, including the viewer, looks straight ahead. They walk at a measured and purposeful gait. The man on the image right, looks around casually, but does not break off from the group itself. This group and their mannerisms imply a set purpose and determination. Associating with this group empowers the viewer with a common unified goal and the strength and determination to realize that goal that comes from the support of one?s peers.
A quick technical note. The small hair from the scanner above the multi-toned umbrella is really distracting.
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| Photo By: Aurore Lynch
(K:1687)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
9/3/2004 3:26:15 PM
I cannot believe that I am the first to comment on this.
This is a very nice image. What makes this so strong is the high quality of the light. It is very soft and really accents the mood of this image giving it a sense of peace and harmony.
The nest of the model is a bright color and sure is an attention grabber. Its satin like texture lends this image a feeling of sensuality, which is also aided by the soft light coming through.
A couple of nit picks. First I am not sure about the model?s expression. It seems a bit hard for the image. What I mean by that is she seems to have an expression that is serious and found on more erotic types of images or it could be a defensive shyness that would result in a stranger invading a personal space. Hope that makes some sense. It is very hard to describe. I guess I would like to see something a bit softer. This could possibly be because she appears to be in a more masculine ?C? pose rather than an ?S? pose.
Second, I think the bright forest on the edge of the picture also distracts from the mood. Although it does not dominate by any means, it does contrast with the soft mood of the rest of the image enough to be noticed.
My nit picks are just that, nit picks. This is a very fine image and it is really hard to find problems with it.
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| Photo By: Kim Taylor
(K:2816)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
8/23/2004 9:36:09 PM
This is my favorite image of the series.
The composition of this image is very simple; two tubs and a window. Indeed, my first impression was that these were not tubs but coffins with the lids up. The mood of the image, as enhanced with photoshop did not contradict my impression, but it affirmed it.
The overall dark mood certainly adds a sense of gloom and the diffused light certainly implies stillness.
Reading your description however, certainly opened my eyes. Rather than coffins, these are tubs used for children. That realization clashed with my initial impression to give this image a much heavier meaning.
I must admit I was curious about this place. A quick google.com search revealed that this place was closed fairly recently (1997). This seems to be a fairly topical item in New Zealand now as abuses are coming to light.
None the less, the patients there came to find help. What they received was anyone?s guess. It appears that many were left wanting in neglect and abuse.
This image remains still, empty and quiet. However, there remains a psychological imprint that is unmistakable and undeniable. This image reflects this well.
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| Photo By: Mark Hamilton
(K:8387)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
7/16/2004 5:34:53 PM
Without the title I would never have guessed these were sisters. Granted there is some physical resemblance between them, but their differences are more striking and make this image so interesting.
On the left is a woman who is much more in tune with fashion. Her hair is dyed black and she wears heavy mascara. She adorns herself with small but noticeable earrings and in clothing that is more revealing with a fabric that contains texture and style.
Her sister is the opposite of this. Her hair is simply done and she wears no make-up. There is no visible jewelry and her clothing is simple and cut much more conservatively.
There are intangibles that also form a striking contrast. The expression of the woman on the left is not quite as serious as it seems. There is laughter and an expression of joy behind those eyes. I almost expect a smirk to break out the instant after the shutter is released.
Her sister is much more somber. Her expression is much more deep and cautious.
A few technical notes. The image seems a little blurred as if there was a slight camera shake from a slower shutter speed, perhaps 1/60?
The contrast in the background between the white and the darker area also distracts a bit. However, it does make a wonderful contrast to highlight the clothing.
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| Photo By: Gosia Barta
(K:824)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
6/24/2004 8:38:37 PM
This is quite a dramatic image.
The subject of the image is simple enough, a swing set. Nothing out of the ordinary about this subject for it is very common. Simply enough, many have spent an innocent summer day frolicking around them during their youths. The bright highlight in the clouds runs along the swing set, really calling attention to it.
This image takes that idea and really pushes it. The swing set itself appears on a lush and grassy plain. If it were not for the dirt patches below the swings, the swing set would almost appear to be completely forgotten by someone whose youth has drifted to adulthood. However, the empty patches do indicate some use. Like the small trees in the background, youth passes with time. People grow out of the simple pleasures of childhood. This is a scene in transition.
The clouds rolling in emphasize the transition. They are dark and on the horizon a heavy rain falls. There is almost the implication of a transition from the innocence of youth to something else more sinister. The twisted swing on adds tension to the image, but it also breaks up the symmetry of the geometric swing set. Again, there is an implication of the transition from youth to something else, something twisted. To further the dark mood of the image, the swing set is shown in silhouette. With the angles at the corners and the support, the silhouette of the swing with the ropes hanging down really reminds me of a gallows.
This image really is a visual feast of drama and tension.
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| Photo By: Sebastian Duda zolo2
(K:41)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
6/18/2004 3:58:55 PM
To say this image is dramatic and moody is just pointing out the obvious.
Although the most dominant part of the image is the fireplace, the key element of this image is the woman. She is ?floating? in the darkness, looking over her shoulder. Her expression is wonderful as she gives the impression of having the viewer intrude upon her. The overwhelming darkness really adds to the intrusion idea. Heavy shadows and her body being formless really adds mystery to this image.
However, I think the woman is too far away from the fireplace. The large, dark gap provides too large a psychological barrier to allow a connection between these two elements. I am also uncertain to her placement on the edge of the image. The compositional balance of the image is disrupted by it.
A nice image full of intense feelings.
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| Photo By: Ewa Brzozowska
(K:391)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
6/1/2004 5:47:11 PM
How others view photography facinates me.
Stick with me, I will relate it to this image.
As of right now I am the 5th viewer of this image. It is over 300 images down in the que.
Why is that? My only explanation is that this is not what photography is to most people. People, even photographers, expect photography to be a realistic representation of what the camera is pointed at.
The first thing I did when I opened this image was to check the photographer?s portfolio. Often blurred images and harsh lighting are just mistakes that someone thought looked ?pretty? or ?neat?, get posted and then ignored by everyone.
However, this is the only image from the photographer. So I returned and reexamined the image.
Changing from my cynical point of view to a more optimistic one, I looked at the image in a different way. I am still not sure how much of this image was intentional or how much was accidental, but it is very dramatic.
The image is over exposed and the colors are saturated. The lighting is from below, adding a dramatic and sinister feel to it. This is opposed to the bright reds, yellows and purples of this image. I am certainly reminded of popular art from the 70?s with a darker theme. The blur certainly adds to the mystery of this image.
It is a shame that more impressionistic images do not garner much attention from the masses. More impressionistic or surreal images can deliver more emotion than your standard ?pretty? image. Images like this challenge what people define photography as. This is good for photography as it breaks away from the conformist thinking and makes photography a more artistic medium rather than a documentary medium.
This image has a strong impact visually. Images of this type are needed to make an impact generally.
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| Photo By: Becca Mangrum
(K:0)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
5/21/2004 5:49:49 PM
This image certainly is not lacking in mood.
There is a very strong film noir feeling with this image. The background is dark with only a hint of detail and mystery.
There is also a classic feel to the image. The focus is soft and with the flare in the corner, I am reminded of the early days of photography.
The subject?s garment is reminiscent of a toga. It is draped around the body giving the body shape and definition amidst the soft focus.
Initially, I thought the subject, which is apparently the photographer, was bending over reaching for something. This reminded me of a portrayal of a muse. However, my initial impression was incorrect. Rather the subject is bent over backwards. This certainly changes the way I look at this image.
The subject is bent over backward and contorted. This certainly does not imply a peaceful muse. Rather there is an awkwardness, or indeed torture, that the subject goes through. The dark tones and the soft focus certainly aid in a sinister theme.
Yet there is a counter point to this. The intense flare in the corner. This flare merges with the subject?s head. The head is the center for will. With this flare, the head nearly explodes with light.
Being educated in the West, I read going left to right. I use this to understand this image. Going from the left, the body is twisted and contorted in the darkness of the environment that surrounds it. However, I finish at the light, the explosion and triumph of the individual will. This interpretation is supported by the angles of the torso and arms as they pull the eye to the light.
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| Photo By: Syrie Kovitz
(K:1349)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
5/11/2004 6:32:29 PM
One other suggestion regarding filters. You can also try a neutral density graduated filter. In simple terms, this is a filter that is grey on top and clear on the bottom. This allows the sky to be darker while not changing the light coming from the subject. I do not think that you can get one that screws in so you will have to go with a slot type of system.
When presented with this type of problem, I prefer to make 2 exposures, one for the subject and one for the sky and "sandwich" them together. It is very easy to do if you use a tripod as the image will be the same.
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| Photo By: arwa abdullah
(K:34415)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
5/7/2004 10:58:47 PM
This second image is a bit confusing.
While the first image definitely showed the relationship of the angel and the devil, this one fails to do so.
The angel is the dominant figure here. Wearing white and being central in the image she commands all the attention of the viewer. The setting once again reminds the viewer of the Garden of Eden. The angel almost leers at the camera.
The most distracting element of the angel?s pose is the tilt of the head. It is forward and over emphasizes her forehead and exaggerates her other facial features. This in combination with the single light source and the shadows that emphasize the nose, the angel takes on a more sinister aspect.
Indeed, this could be the effect desired as you comment upon the desire to have the illusion of the devil and the angel reversing roles.
However, the relationship between the devil and angel is missing. The devil is in the background, poorly lit and out of focus, although this could be due to the wide aperture. The devil?s expression certainly conveys innocence, but by being out of focus and poorly lit really just blends into the background.
I do believe that you intended for there to be a stronger relationship, as close inspection reveals that there is a hand on the left shoulder of the angel. This cannot belong to the angel, as her 2 hands are clearly visible. This obviously must belong to the devil. Yet it is barely noticeable and the intent is unclear. Is the devil holding back the angel or grasping to her? Is the devil acting out of aggression or affection?
A quick comment on the costumes. I disagree as to their appearance. While they are not elaborate, they are theatrical. They add a whimsical and playful element to the image. Although the themes are real, the portrayal is merely fantasy, a mythical battle of good and evil.
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| Photo By: Adriana Uribe
(K:975)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
4/30/2004 6:49:38 PM
An interesting idea for a series.
Your choice of models really helps your concept. They share many physical features, which emphasizes your theme of the duality of an individual. The setting reminds me of being in the Garden of Eden and is symbolic for the place where the divine meets the material. This is the battleground for the struggle between good and evil and is an appropriate setting for your series.
Regarding each one of the models. First, and most dominant in the image, is the angel. She is dressed elegantly, well at least relative to the devil. She gazes down toward the devil as she subjugates her.
There are certain issues with the angel. First, and the thing I noticed first, is her visible tattoo. Having a tattoo has become more fashionable and mainstream, however it still has the connotation of being rebellious. Traditional symbolism has angels and their divine counterparts as representing the ideal order while the devil represents rebellion. The tattoo is a contradiction.
Second, the angel?s pose is too passive. She is leaning away from the camera with her shoulder dipped. Her gaze is more sensual than victorious. I am undecided about the hair that covers her face. On one hand, it is sensual and adds an erotic appeal. On the other hand, it casts a harsh shadow and distracts from her face. There is an obvious erotic element to the image, but I think that the beauty of the models, their costumes and the nature of the series, struggle, implies that enough. Emphasizing it using the angel?s gaze distracts from the theme of good triumphing over evil.
Finally, it is really hard to determine what the angel is doing. The devil?s head blocks the leg of the angel. In addition, the angels left hand is hidden in the bushes. This is problematic because if you follow the Garden of Eden idea, the angel looks like she is picking the fruit.
I really like the facial expression of the devil. She gazes at the camera with an expression of sorrow. However, I also feel that the expression is asking for help from the viewer. She is asking me to help her in her struggle. This expression is where the story of this image is told.
The only nit pick I have with the devil?s pose is that her left hand is cut out of the image.
On a technical note, the image appears underexposed by about ? to 1 stop. It appears that this was a shooting issue as you already shot this with a slow shutter and a wide aperture.
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| Photo By: Adriana Uribe
(K:975)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
12/29/2003 9:40:47 AM
Seldom does an image attract my attention because of the printing. However, this image did just that.
I can only use one word to describe it, rich. There are such a variety of tones on the walls and the differences are subtle but noticeable. Even on this outdated and uncalibrated monitor and after it was scanned it is a beautiful image.
Printing alone however, will not inspire me to comment. The image is very simple by itself being a lone little girl seemingly propped up in the corner. Her clothing is formal, but still it is simple. The marvelous printing of this image brings to life the patterns in her dress, making it almost a visual feast. Yet the dress is simple. It is a one piece garment that buttons down the middle.
The doll metaphor alluded to in the title is unmistakable and obvious. The girl?s pose, easily changed clothing and gaze away from the camera, simulating the blank stares from dolls, reinforce this idea. However, there is life in those eyes and joy in her smile. This image gives off a great deal of warmth.
This little girl obviously is enjoying the attention she is receiving from the camera. She is posing in a silly way for her and it seems as though she is trying very hard not to giggle. Like a doll she was dressed up for the occasion. Her natural charm and innocence has attracted the attention of the camera and she glows in the spotlight. Like the rag doll alluded to in the title she was posed for this image, but unlike a lifeless doll, she brings life to the image. The photographer may have posed her, but this is truly the little girl?s image.
A small technical note based upon my own personal preface, the feet at the bottom of the image feel a bit crowded.
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| Photo By: Cheryl Jacobs
(K:122)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
12/12/2003 11:47:06 AM
Gorkem-
An interesting image. Your use of the red and blue colors suggests a contrast between hot and cold and makes the image itself very dynamic.
I do not like your use of depth of field however. It is arbitrary and my eye keeps trying to focus on the top of the spark plug where the object is more interesting than the threads. Try redoing this with a view camera if you still have access to one.
Paul
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| Photo By: Gorkem Somer
(K:6)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
10/15/2003 12:46:30 PM
The title of this image leads the viewer in many different directions. It forces the viewer to consider the many different aspects of the title. Is the photographer or the subject giving the apology? Does the image depict the behavior that is needs forgiveness or the act of the apology? If the old cliché of a ?picture being worth a 1000 words? is true, the title certainly adds a few chapters.
My initial reaction is that the photographer is asking for forgiveness. The woman is seen at various times and with different facial expressions. This woman could be a wife, girl friend, sister, cousin or other close relative where a strong emotional bond exists. Her various expressions are the flood of differing emotions that occur during a confrontation.
Yet, the faces are soft and semi-transparent. The photographer is showing that although the emotions are there, they are not really necessary to communicate the deed that needs forgiveness. The photographer understands all to well and is only waiting to ask for forgiveness. The release of the emotions is more for the woman?s sake. When the flood of emotions have passed, then forgiveness can be asked.
Yet all the while, the thought of ?Please pardon my behavior? runs through the photographer?s mind, waiting for the right moment to ask.
On a technical note, the background on the left is really distracting. It is a highlight that commands attention, but it is out of focus leaving the viewer pondering what it is. If it should add to the story, then the objects should be recognizable.
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| Photo By: Ronald Allen
(K:2934)
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Critique By:
Paul S (K:894)
10/3/2003 1:57:03 PM
This is a difficult image to look at.
Why?
Certainly there is nothing wrong with it. The message is just so sad.
The image is very contrasty and the colors are very saturated. This gives the image a very raw and powerful feeling.
However, despite the image of the young boy and all the hope that it should imply, the colors of this image are so bleak. The intense blues and blacks are not optimistic. Indeed, they indicate sorrow and depression. Yet, this boy and all of his youthful vigor chooses to paint using such colors.
Psychologists, if you believe them, would tell you that this young man is sad because of his use of color. Perhaps it is merely a blip on his path through preadolescence.
I hope so.
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| Photo By: jake griffin
(K:3439)
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