CommentsDevious CommentsI am a fan of shadows on a variegated surface, which mitigates the distraction, in contrast to their projection on a flat, featureless surface. I don't find them a hindrance and neither so with the hair. If it were brushed back it would strike me as off-putting unless she had it contained into an updo. What makes it work is the hair brushed back from the forward shoulder. If the hair were symmetrical being over both shoulders or behind them, it would not work either way. There are a good deal of contrasts going on that make this image work even if it doesn't follow an ideal studio setup. Just my two cents.
-- "The dictate of the Light says, 'Know yourself and who you are!' The Dark replied, 'By all means, but then become afraid!'" Makes sense. I like it, either way.
At first glance, the shadow seemed out of place. I think using a light about 30 degrees to the left of the camera, about 20 feet away could give a dramatic shadow on the background without looking "accidental" -- Your art has earned my attention and my comments, My art is waiting for yours! |
Cons: Position of her hair over her right shoulder; it blurs what should be a strong line between her right arm and the right breast, one of the features this outfit usually deliberately "projects". The camera-mounted flash leaves a distracting shadow behind her, but luckily isn't overpowering. There seems to be an uncontrolled light source which highlights her ankle and left hand to the point of overexposure.
I would suggest using a shorter shutter speed and use a couple softboxes to illuminate everything, This will help in both the overexposed highlights and the harsh, "hugging" shadows. Good work, Toni and Brian.