Stressby
SEGComment by snaffles: Greetings from the Critique Club!
First impression: 'Wow do I ever want to get this shirt and tie off!' Glad to say I gave this a 6, because it does convey a lot more than many portraits, which are usually flattering to the subject.
Artistic: Very raw and convincing self-portrait, you went for the stressed-out look so well i can feel you vibrating from here. Either you're about to attend a year-end review with the head honcho (and didn't get a good night's sleep or enough time to shave or comb your hair), or you had about 10 cups of espresso pre-shoot :-) I think you managed to hit on the universal theme of discomfort and tenseness with this shot. Pity more voters didn't relate to that end of the human spectrum of emotions.
Technical: Very good in terms of lighting, the comp is certainly more compelling than the usual eyes-to-the-camera which you see in most portraits. Looks like you may have been a little close to the bg but then, maybe that's what stressed you out? ;-) I do like the lighting descrip and never apologize for homemade low-budget light setups. Besides, the lighting adds to the impression that you are feeling the heat.
Overall: Excellent work and not a bad finish at all, so give yourself a pat on the back. And always nice to see a shout-out to teammates who've given you help along the way. Keep up the shooting and exploring those emotions so rarely seen here!
Feel free to PM me.
Susan
Photographer found comment helpful.