Untitled

I personally like this shot a lot, especially as far as the overall composition goes.

You've managed to keep the detail in the blinds without blowing out the highlights. I wouldn't mind seeing more detail in the blacks, particularly on the Pug's nose and eye areas (especially the eyes), and in the girl's hair, but still it's a really good shot in my opinion. I especially like the way the Pug's right leg and paw is draped over the crook of the girl's arm. Intentional or not, it's a nice touch.

I also like the direct look into the lens by both of them. She's a lovely young lady, and her smile lights up the shot.

Jim,

Thank you for taking the time to comment. I appreciate your comments and suggestions and you absolutely right about the pug's face, etc. I shot this on 120 film and had it scanned by a lab but also had prints made. The scan came back without all the gray values I see in the regular print which has very nice tonality. Some shots come back looking better scanned than I would expect, in other cases the reverse is true. Best regards, and thanks again for your feedback. - Jeff

I figured this was film, so just a suggestion from me here, okay? Years ago, I bought a scanner and began scanning my own negatives. It was worth the initial expense. I'm still using that old Epson 2450 to this day, and it's still going strong. Scanning your own negs allows you to do the tones as you want them to be, either using the scanner software or, once you do the initial scan, using Photoshop to adjust the tonality. I'm sure you already know this, but thought I'd mention it anyway. Plus, you won't be paying someone else to do the job, and if you scan a lot of negs, the scanner will soon pay for itself.

All that said, I still like this photograph very much...(a) because it's film, and (b) because it is just so totally natural looking.

Jim,

Excellent suggestion. I've resisted investing in a scanner, but it would make a world of difference to be able to control the process myself. Lab results are inconsistent and the cost really adds up with 120 film.