Tension

I think the crop has potential but wouldn't necessarily see it as edgy, partly because her expression is much more pensive, IMO, than edgy and the lighting doesn't add much mystery or fear to the equation. For it to feel edgy, I'd keep the guy in the background in blur, which I think works, but he'd need a more menacing expression or posture rather than being so relaxed against the wall.

Thanks....I see what you mean.  I guess what I meant by edgy is that the crop breaks traditional rules and creates tension (IMO), causing a feeling of uneasiness more than anything.  Also, one thing I failed to mention is that this is actually an engaged couple, and this is anything BUT a lovey-dovey image.  It almost makes you wonder what they're doing together.  So perhaps I should have used another word to describe my intent. But frankly, I'm so glad to even get someone to leave me a critique that you could have blasted this to space and back and I still would have been pleased to get a response.  ;-)  Maybe I don't travel in the 'right' circles, but there aren't many people taking the trouble to leave remarks here on PN these days.  

I agree this place has become almost like a morgue. The participation seems to be dwindling, and I also notice a trend where there are many of the same people asking for an awful lot of critiques and not giving many out in return. That kind of selfishness baffles me. I think both you and I can be fairly comfortable in having given to the members of the site as much as we've received and then some. I see a lot of people about whom I wouldn't say that. Site administration has been promising to address that inequity for a couple of years now since they inherited the site. At this point, administration seems to be completely AWOL and I put little hope in their doing anything to improve the site. Not sure what the answer is. I keep plodding along and keep finding interesting photos to comment on and try to reciprocate as much as possible with those who do give comments as I think it's important to put energy into those people who put energy into the site.

Life photo or psychological study or whatever category - it's a masterpiece and got seven from me and goes to my favorites! Congratulations Christal!

Best regards

PDE

My husband and I were just having this conversation earlier this evening.....how people are all about 'me, me, me' these days......self-absorbed.  It's an epidemic that has affected PN, I'm afraid.  Of course, like you say, there are some fantastic participants, but many of them seem to be jumping ship.  I hope you don't leave.  I've enjoyed watching your interactions and comments, and you should get a gold star for your participation.  A very active member just told me today in a private email that he is not renewing his membership, which breaks my heart.  I intend to stay, at least for the time being, because frankly I have no other way to show my photos.  I plan to create my own website soon, but until then...... I stay!  Thanks, Fred!

Well, you made my evening.....especially after the conversation Fred and I just had!  Ha!   High praise coming from you, Pierre!  Thanks!

Well, I have to admit, I have not been able to be online much of late - it is just life circumstances that have not allowed me to spend the hours I used to on PN. I am hoping that I will soon be able to spend more time. I used to be able to be up till all hours of the morning and it did not bother me at all, but I just cannot do it anymore. I don't know about others, but that is the only reason I have not participated as much. I like this shot Christal, it is well planned out and I think you achieved what YOU were desiring. I understand your intent, and feel you accomplished it in this capture. I'd like to take a Photography Course one day, sounds like you had an excellent experience! Also, there seem to be so many more Photography sites out there and some display the images very professionally. However, I have enjoyed PN and will be here for some time I believe.