Untitled

There are a few too many shadows on the face to be "better than studio" quality, but overall the shadows arent overpowering.

The highlight on the back of the cheek is distracting but in a way it works, the longer you look at the image (maybe my eyes are getting used to the whiteness?)

A fill reflector could have been used to better light up the right side of the photo, and some editing on the eyes to correct the redness and to bring up general contrast and highlights as the image looks a little flat.

This is what I get shooting outdoors:

http://photo.net/photodb/photo?photo_id=7184064

and

http://photo.net/photodb/photo?photo_id=8347598

The composition of your photo is great though :)

Captivating, Fergus! I love it all; highlights, shadows, slightly blown out on very small part of one side, the expression, the apparent motion of the hair, the softness where appropriate; all of it.

No, it is not a 'by-the-book' studio type shot. But you already knew that. Looking at your portfolio, it is apparent you have some knowledge in producing the cliche' studio shot. This is quite different, and unique. A shot to be proud of.