The Dancer.

Your thoughts and comments are velcome.

Please view in large,

Thanks.

Andy

A beautiful result with very nice lighting and details, Andy!

Hi Andy,

Thanks for sharing. I like the use of one light to create some shadows and highlight the texture. I also like the fact that it isn't completely vertical or horizontal in the frame. I really like the solid black background. I would suggest however cropping it a bit more symmetrical, from left to right mostly...i think it may be ok to be weighted heavier at the bottom. I think you've over exposed the upper left side. I'm assuming that the shell is laying on a table and you're shooting from above. I would maybe try moving the primary light a little higher to add some light to the opening and cranking the intensity down a bit OR move the light further away to create more dramatic shadows. You could also try elevating the shell from the background with something hidden by the body of the shell. Once off the table, you can add a secondary light to illuminate the shell from behind...much like a hair light in a portrait....that will help define the edges but still keep the background a nice solid black...it also may add a bit of an internal glow depending on how translucent the shell is. From underneath using acrylic stands (or a modified coat hanger) and museum wax are great ways to elevate, pose, and stabilize it for shooting. Also, you may get some great effects if you play around with some focus stacking...will allow you to get real close, lots of details. This image concept seems like it would be awesome as a 16x20 series.

--PatrickD

Thank you for your very kind words.

Best regards.

Andy

Thank you for your very kind words and suggestions.

All are valid and very helpful.

The reason for the title is the same reason for the imbalance in composition:

i see a Dancer and she just about to go down on her right knee during her fall.

Same day i posted another version of the same with desirable translucency.

My best regards.

cheers

Andy