Female nude 2 - window light

Would appreciate any comments. This is my second attempt at figure

photography. Once again, only natural window light was used. I

hope I've learned something from the helpful comments of Photo.net

members previously given.

Hi Kathleen, What I like most about this photograph is the way the modulations reveal so many of the minor contours of the subject's back. All those little dimples and undulations have been captured so very well. The lighting is very, very nice: It grades across her back from the bright crescent running along the left side, through the middle grays of the spinal region, into the darker tones of the right side. Very nice. A white sheet, or similar device over the window may have been added to soften the crescent which could be thought by some as too intense. Experimentation would have been helpful. If you were already using such a device, perhaps a second one added to it.

 

Her pose, the tilt of her hips, the uplifted arms, are very nice. The left arm maybe could come out a little. By out, I mean maybe out towards the left a little bit. Also, maybe just a pinch more space above her elbows. The hair is mostly contained on the head, which is good as there are few disturbances in the figure caused by strands or cascades of hair. Those strands that do trespass the figure only serve to accentuate the curvature of it.

 

I think this study approaches pure figure and its whole aesthetic is one of a classic nude. It might even be worth your time to experiment with toning on this print, perhaps a sepia, or brown to further play on the antique feel of the image. It might not work, but the treatment suggests that possibility.

 

Rating this is difficult for me. Is it an original treatment? I don't know. It is certainly an appropriate treatment, and above average, in my opinion. It don't see it as intentially erotic, or concentrated on overt sensuality, which is how many nudes are approached. Is it a pleasing treatment? Definitely yes. The aesthetic appeal is classic and beautiful.

I agree with the above poster. this is classical nude stuff and is very very well lit an nice, but I also am bothered by the hair strands, the uplifted arms, and the difference in tone in the background. Also, the highlight on the left side of her body might be a tad too washed out. Perhaps a little more detail there would be good if you have it on the neg.

 

Kevin

Lovely pose and lighting. The texture and modeling of back is wonderful.

I appreciate the comments that have been made on this photo. I have been requested to reduce the photo size to within the parameters of Photo.net's page, so will be removing this specific photo directly and replacing it with the smaller image.

 

Kathleen

Litle to dark right side to my taste

I like your shadings and tonings here. The model has some "meat" on her, and I like the way it shows.

How I love Mystery...a photo almost as good as a well written book. A photo that begs questions. Composition-wise and technically this photo has a deja-vu feel to it, but then, so does my cooking...and I'm a professional chef!! So I guess I liked the way you "spiced" this dish.