Abstract Portrait 5

John.  Thanks for the feedback.  I face the dilemma of where to put work fairly frequently.  I don't really consider this an abstract because it is clearly identifiable (a face) but agree it is an unconventional portrait.  However, I do understand your point.  As for the rating; I am not sure what to say really.  I allow people to rate my work but find it to be fairly uninformative.  I would rather have a fierce but informed critique (quite rare) as to why the shot works or doesn't based on photographic technique.  

With that said; these studies (my motion work) are all one exposure composed in camera (usually my D700, although I still shoot some film with my F3).  Post-processing consists of conversion to BW, addition of grain, adjustments to contrast.  I say this because I think that some people think I photoshop the technique.  I am not anti-photoshop but am clarifying my approach.  

Thanks and all the best.  

Dana...

The technique is the star in this image and I understand why it is meaningful and personal for you.  Some images are just fun to create and need no further justification.  I do see the face (faces) and I believe other viewers might critique your image in standard terms: interesting tonal range, soft lead-in lines to and around the faces, etc.  

Dear Dana, as for me, in principle an image is not susceptible of being classified in any way. We help creating a menu to better distribute all images, but in street photography for example: we can do a portrait, or an abstract etc., whatever.

For me an image has a value in itself, independent of anything outside the work itself.

I think you're doing well and quite rightly, to explain that the movement is get at the time of capture with the camera. This gives an idea that you possess a very impressive technique to handle the necessary technical skills to achieve these results (all in one-exposure image!).

In sum, I can perceive a portrait, it can be seen with my eyes, be seen with my heart, soul, mind or even being in front of a face in a dream. What you do is give a tangible sense or aspect to an extra dimension ...

I confess I would like to have a seventh sense to look at things in this way (whenever I 'd want)  :-)

As you told me once, too... real life is made of continuous movements, but not appreciated, like "in slow motion".

Black and white helps this abstract;

An abstract I behold, but I discern a face through another mind, in this case yours. As for the rating, it's something sometimes "laughable" I have seen masterpieces with a very low rating and mediocre images with very good rating.

I give your image a 6, for: very proper use of lights, by the use of correct photographic technique that offers this amazing movements or distortions and for the composition of the portrait, very well balanced.

Congrats, because it attracts a lot!, I've been for a long time looking at it and and I love it. Continue to surprise us. I keep my 7 for the next, as sweet incentive...

I also take this opportunity to thank you for your comments on my works, they're very instructive and help me a lot. And for your attention, always welcome.

Kindest regards, Laura

Laura.  Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment.  I agree that classifying photos/art is very difficult at times and is often frustrating for me.  Obviously I like to break the "rules" a bit and I think that irritates some of my critics but I value their input as well (it keeps me honest).  However, it does cause me to question my approach sometimes.  

I am glad that you liked the explanation of my approach.  I am not sure the technique really matters in the end but wanted to explain how I shoot.  I think many folks consider it just a matter of luck but I have experimented pretty extensively over the last few years and can get what is in my head in most shoots (i.e. it isn't an accident).  

I am glad to get a 6 from you but am more grateful for your thoughts and comments.  I will keep trying for that 7, it is sweet incentive my friend.  

I am a fan and always looking when you post.

All the best.  Dana...