Marika # 2..

I liked lighting and I liked the processing.

The hand does not seem to contribute, however...

beautiful and self-confidently .... tamarah

I prefer the hand to be in focus.

Nice portrait with good tonal range and a strong expression on the model. However, I agree that her hand is too predominantly shown. (Especially since it 'flows' in the same direction as her face, and is partially superimposed on it)  If she had lowered it a bit, it might have worked for me, since it appears that her hands have long and delicate looking fingers. One other minor nitpick : it's a pity to see those two hairs on her face -- they seem to distract a bit from the clear facial details... (although one could possibly also see this as a 'natural  touch') My compliments to you, Edmondo, I like your portrait, and I think that the lighting is very well done!