july, 2014 photoshoots Inna B-G 7-20-14 320

Mark,

Nice photo, a bit of a 'story', not just a nice looking person with her clothes off.  Having said that, if you don't mind a comment, I'd of liked the background to be a bit more out of focus, as it competes just a bit for my attention.  But mainly, nice photo with a nice feeling/mood to it.

Ray H.

My comment in no way reflects on that of Ray who has every right to his opinion. I recently stated my view on this subject under one of Jim Phelps' shots. My premise is that if one wants a photo entirely focused on the subject, that one moves to a studio. If however, one chooses to photograph outside, as above, then presumably it is for the very reason of including some of the background so as to give context and a story line to the image.

It was likewise in Jim's picture looking out of a window in which case there would have been little reason to be standing there with a contemplative look if it were not for that purpose of looking outside, which was highlighted by just the right amount of focus in the background.

Of course this doesn't work every time, it depends on the context,  and Ray is right in saying there should preferably not be distraction, but I do not feel it so above and I enjoy the picture personally just as composed.

My opinion on “blurring the background” is similar to John Peri’s.
The background should only be blurred when it does not contribute to the emotional impact of image.
When the background is critical to the image narrative, the focus should be as sharp as possible.
The idea of “blurring the background” comes from classic portrait photography where the background is one color/tone. Blurring this type of background eliminates unwanted elements (folds, stains, dust, etc) on the background.

Jim Phelps

Lovely!

Thank you all for taking the time to comment and discuss this photograph.

When we came up to this ruined home, we immediately saw the narrative possibilities. She suggested the sheer gown and off we went. There are many others in this folder. The idea of her standing against the frame of a doorway and looking out was mutual. I selected  this focal length and aperture to place the wall out of focus but with enough detail to remain in context.

One wonders what she is looking at. I really like the image.

Jim Phelps

Thank you, Jim. I think I just said look over there :-)

It is supposed to look like she is looking at, or for, someone.