Drowning in the Box
by Strikeslip

Comment:
Now that's a nasty, smack-up-the-side-of-the-head image! Far too much Neat Image on the nostrils and the negative space is way oversharpened. On the other hand, the horizon's crooked and your frame is not visible at all. Overall, a terrific image. Bravo! 9.

A Face from Indonesia
by tyt2000

Comment:
Very fine, mesmerising portrait. The simplicity of composition, lighting and processing is very appropriate. 8

Senhora Bem Vinda
by Bud

Comment:
Beautiful. A wonderful subject captured with simplicity and dignity. You make it impossible for the viewer to avoid an emotional collision with this appealing, engaging person. And that's what makes it such a terrific protrait. 9

Unknown, 2005
by pawdrix

Comment:
Such a brilliant, appealing subject, and you did total justice to this opportunity. 8

Rainy Days
by clenny

Comment:
Very good photograph. I like the spare, empty composition ... it reinforces the expression of disquiet on the face of the primary subject. And the inclusion of the second boy, whose body language also suggests uncertainty, completes the picture, literally. This is the work of a photographer who understands what he/she is doing. 9.

Syrup
by hjalti

Comment:
Love this. The harsh lighting and the brassy, high-key feel is terrific, and is also a welcome relief. It's a very pop-art kind of image. Good, original thinking! 8.

Christina
by Gatorguy

Comment:
Beautiful, timeless portrait. The soft, ethereal feel is perfect for the subject, and the composition/crop gives it an intimacy that is also apposite. 9.

Oblivious
by aznym

Comment:
This is not a technically flawless photograph (and bravo for that!) But it is a very good portrait ... it's interesting and intriguing. It requires the viewer to actually think; to speculate about both the primary and secondary subjects ... who are they? do they have some relationship? is he just a voyeur? what's she looking at? Stuff like that. So much better than another Barbie & Ken glamour shot! 9.

Ronin
by Nazgul

Comment:
Lovely, deceptively simple portrait in which the photographer and the subject were equal and successful participants. You each know what a seriously good portrait should do; provide an insight into the nature of the subject. And you each delivered. 9

Junior
by mesmeraj

Comment:
This is a terrific portrait, much stronger than the many more technically onanistic entries. The man's body language and facial expression create an irresistible tension and command the viewer's emotional involvement in the photograph. There's a definite feeling of loss and quiet despair about it. The composition is casual and uncompromising, and the decision to not crop out the car was inspired. I also applaud your processing choices (or I should say lack of them). Alas, I suppose it will be overlooked among the dross. 10.