Summoning the Flames
by labuds

Comment by Xilebo:
Even though I've seen this before I'm always fascinated, this particular angle is great, well done!

Summoning the Flames
by labuds

Comment by cogerox:
Good composition. Well exposed.

Summoning the Flames
by labuds

Comment by hotpasta:
wow! this is amazing, the shaps and composition are superb, good luck

Summoning the Flames
by labuds

Comment by Zygote:
Clever chocolates and golds...right on song

The Exorcism
by labuds

Comment by ladyhawk22:
Greetings from the Critique Club!

I am very impressed with your image! The concept shows quite a bit of creativity, which I like--and it's also carried off well.

Your choice of subject is intriguing as well as appealing to the eye. I think it's a very interesting (but good!) choice for a Free Study photo. It breaks out of the box that many Free Study photos fall into.

The lighting is probably the first technical aspect which jumped out at me. I know from experience that it's not very easy to photograph smoke in terms of lighting. And the fact that you managed to also light the person in a dramatic way really grabbed my eye. Looking at it further, I enjoy the fact that opposite sides of the face seem to be lit (due to the reflection) which offers a certain symbolic element to the shot, giving it more depth. The focus of the shot is also done well. The smoke came out crystal clear, as did the model and his reflection. The title of the shot is incredibly well depicted.

As far as improving this image for DPC voters, I'm not sure I can offer any suggestions! This photo really seems to be spot on. The dark background works perfectly for what you were trying to depict and I love the mood the lighting creates. You've done a really fabulous job with this shot. Keep up the good work!

--ladyhawk22 (Elizabeth)
Feel free to PM me if you have any other questions or thoughts :-)

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
by labuds

Comment by gurlwithapen:
clever.

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
by labuds

Comment by Jutilda:
Well deserved finish!!!

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
by labuds

Comment by saintaugust:
i seem to recall giving this an 8 or 9 but my vote didn't stick. sorry. this is great!

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
by labuds

Comment by graphicfunk:
Aleks: very creative take. Congratulations on your 13th place.

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
by labuds

Comment by arngrimur:
A very good concept. Pity it's too creative for the voters.