Viola Ragazza
by Purple_Girl

Comment by ambaker:
I think your image scored a lot lower than it should have. At first glance the skin tones are washed out. However post challenge I have the advantage of seeing your intent.

Focus and depth if field are both very good.

I think that the crop may be a tiny bit tight. I'd like to see a little more hair on top of the head.

I really like the intent stare directly into the camera, and the expression of the model is fantastic. That tiny half smile, that sort of says I know something you don't, is great.

Although everything is very centered, I'm not sure there was a better way to do it. But you probably lost a few votes with the people who had the rule of thirds checklist in their hands.

Nice work...

Abstract I
by Purple_Girl

Comment by Yo_Spiff:
Melted plastic? Different, but it's not grabbing my attention, I'm afraid.

Viola Ragazza
by Purple_Girl

Comment by cools98:
Overall I would say that the lighting in this photos is extremely harsh. It is very apparent that the flash was "on camera". I say that because of the harsh shadow below the chin, the catchlight in the eyes, and the lack of contrast throughout the rest of the face. I didn't vote on this particular photo, but I will say that I generally will not go much higher than a 6 if you can tell that. I was going to say that the focus was a bit off, but after reading about the neat image filter in your notes, I would say to do a little practice with that, because it is extremely overdone. Aside from that, the composition is also very plain. If I would have voted on this photo myself, I would have given it a 4. Hope this helps to udnerstand.

Missing You
by Purple_Girl

Comment by Molly:
Very cute idea! Great job for first challenge. Lighting is a bit harsh, but I myself haven't gotten the hang of lighting yet! Good luck!

Viola Ragazza
by Purple_Girl

Comment by Molly:
I was one of the 50 percentile that rated this a 5.. definately met the challenge! The light seems just a little harsh, but the hair and lipstick are great! Good job! :)

Viola Ragazza
by Purple_Girl

Comment by MAK:
Toilet tissue over the built in flash can really work as a diffuser but the best kind of light is Natural light. BTW, I love the hair.

Viola Ragazza
by Purple_Girl

Comment by rinac:
Even though your flash was set low, tell-tale signs of direct flash are still visible. Shine on the nose and around the mouth, cheek and the eyes. There's also a harsh shadow on the neck under the chin. That all adds up to making the image look washed out/snap-shotty.

You've also lost texture in the hair, which is a little disappointing. Neat Image may have been the culprit there.

choltmeier's advice is sound, use natural light. Or even try diffusing/bouncing the flash.

Abstract I
by Purple_Girl

Comment by stphq:
hmm, now i haven't a clue what this is,,, but i like the contrast of the tones against the white.. nice focus

Viola Ragazza
by Purple_Girl

Comment by choltmeier:
Direct flash is a bit harsh. I think I'd like it better if it was shot with natural light coming through a window.

Viola Ragazza
by Purple_Girl

Comment by cynthiann:
her face looks a little washed out due to the harsh lighting.