Karneval in Cologne, Germany, 2000

Portraits need to show the subject's eyes clearly and prominently or else you lose any sense of contact with the subject.

Mark

I appreciate your comment, and understand that, under normal circumstances, this is quite true. However, I personally think that this adds to, rather than detracts from this particular shot, which is not a formal portrait but rather a candid one, snapped in the midst of the swirl of Karneval. I think that having to work a bit to get to the subject's eyes adds a little bit of mystery to the photo, and, considering the young man's rather solemn expression despite his colorful costume, invites us to speculate on his mental processes.

What's the fun of photography if we can't break the rules once in a while?

Peace!

Following rules in this case would have led to inferior results! The story his facial expression tells is exclaimed by the eyes you are drawn to as you try to figure out what is going through his mind.

 

And the outfit provides such a great contrast, I think this is an amazing photo. An island of tranquility (or sleepiness) amidst a sea of excitement. Well done!