Melancholy

Andrew, what I get from this woman's facial expression - predominately the eyes and mouth - is consternation. Although I don't do model portraits, I would have the subject's mouth closed (but not tight-lipped) and her eyes looking down directly in front if I wanted to portray melancholy. Actually, the image really impresses me due to the subject's skin tone, some of her hair covering her right shoulder, her facial expression, and her implied sensuality (due to her translucent lacy gown). A different title, maybe?

Hi Michael,

Thanks a lot for you inside. " feeling of pensive sadness" "representing a state of low mood" I think it does not have to be overdone, it can be subtle. Like in this case.

Again, Andrew, I found the image impressive. If we disagree at all, it's about the emotion the model is displaying. Maybe I was thinking from a psychological point of view, while your thoughts (including the title) were based on your considerable experience shooting portraits.

It's delightful, Andrew! I assume that your beauty is not sad, she wants to ask you a question. Bravo! Sincerely, Tatiana

I see so nice details and balance of light on model,she looks natural and not at all constrained by the moment of shooting.Hair,skin fit so well with her scarf.Grey tones you have here makes this photo very pleasantly.About the title and what Michael say I think is normal that each of us to see and feel different same thing,from diversity comes the progress.All my best Andrew.

Hi Michael,

I truly appreciate your sincere comment. I was just explaining that in my opinion the title is fine. Her mood at least to me look a bit sad. I guess that the beauty of photography that it provide opportunity for different feelings and interpretation. No disagreement or complains, just different interpretation.

Hi Tatiana, Thank you very much for shearing your feelings and compliment.

Hi Radu, Thank you very much for the compliments. Yes indeed like I mentioned in my reply to Michael "interpretation is in the eye of the beholder"

Brok has a superb talent for showing any mood and my role is just to provide decent light and press the shutter-release button. Working with her is an absolute delight.

Lovely portrait. Serious expression which adds to "realism." I particularly like how you handled the "gray tones" in this picture. Adds to the seriousness of the models expression rather than acting as a distraction! You are very good at this Andrew!

Hi Warren,

Thank you very much for you visit and compliments. I agree with you comment 100% but have to admit I did not think about it before you mentioned it. Thanks.