Urban Cowboyby
NatashaComment by docpjv: GOOD DAY FROM YOUR DPCHALLENGE CRITIQUE CLUB!
Dear Natasha, ,
Thanks for allowing us to have a closer look at your photograph. It is a fact that on average people look and evaluate an image presented to them in 5 seconds. When we are given the opportunity to really look and interpret the image, that is when we appreciate people like you. And thanks to you, we hope to learn much together.
The process I deploy is first of all to look at your previous work and then look at the currents comments made. I want to have a 'feel' for the person who entrusted me with this responsibility. Only then do I spend time with the image for a critique.
The critique can be both Applied (To the image self) and Theoretical (Attempt to philosophy and theorise about the work). It is important for me to be able to describe, to interpret, to evaluate and even to theorize about it. If I can encourage discourse about your work I will be happy.
In the final analysis, I hope you can learn something from this, take something of it and improve both your skill and self confidence.
So, here goes for your image.
This I must get out of the way, I gave this image a 7 for the creativity, the challenge fit and the wonderful monochrome post processing. Underscored, for sure, but let's have a look at it.
You have an average of 5.98 after 55 challenges, very few people can say the same. You yourself said that you would rather post images you are happy with, not necessarily what pleases others. That is exactly why I love this image, your attitude shows. NEVER, change your view, you are a refreshing artist, not just a person with a camera.
Melting in with the background or stand out? You had one comment touching on that issue for each. Personally I would have opted for the latter, this image would have presented better if it stood out, if you got some depth on it.
Something about your lighting may have made it difficult, for example the cowboy has a tad too much contrast yet the background lacked contrast. Yes, again you are right, this image, the original, should be played with for alternatives and options. That is what makes this a great image... not only perfect for a challenge, but an interesting piece of good work.
Some other thing that must be said, the white center is a bit overwhelming and does tend to pull the eye away from your subject, supporting my feeling of not enough contrast on the wall?
On another note, look at HIS right side face...is that a scar from nose to jaw? How come the shadow is sort of split? The little imperfection on the chin, is it a blond goatee? His darker right nostril? Pedantic, picky, silly maybe, but I want to point out to you your image is so good, that for anyone to say something negative they surely will have to begin nit picking.
All in all, fantastic work from you as always. I will keep an eye out for your work, it was a pleasant surprise to me. Refreshing like your Bio description.
Keep up the great work!
docpjv
Photographer found comment helpful.
