Mo Ierulli, 1988

Emmanuel, this is an excelllent composition. The side-lighting creates a beautiful effect on her face and off-sets the symmetry, as well. The illumination of the background behind her head provides exquisite separation. Excellent portrait! Regards.

There is something John Warren wrote on my portfolio that not only

made my day, but affected how I plan to put my critique requests up

from now on. Mr Warren, an accomplished photographer in his own

right commented on how he appreciates the fact that I take the time

to offer tips to younger photographers. As this is a site for

photographers really, I will attempt to offer tips on how a

particular image was made. I hope I can be of help to someone. This

picture, like MOST of my portraits, was not planned. Oh, sure, I

took her into the studio, told her what to wear and set up the

lights, but her priceless expression was a fleeting moment in time,

a flit that was there for a second and gone the next. I will tell

you how it got there. I have this habit of talking through the

session. I would ask for certain things, like "look sexy" or "look

sad" and the model will try to pull off that look. In the middle of

it, they usually give up and burst out laughing, because we ALL look

silly when we try expressions. It is in that wonderful self

deprecating moment, that nanosecond of self realization that most of

the great expressions occur. Next time you have a model, watch for

it, be ready and record it. I doubt you will be sorry. The lighting

was simple, too. There are two sources, a 500 volt naked bulb that

was placed behind her facing the canvas background, then a 250 watt

bulb softened by a piece of computer paper placed over the gates.

The hat and dress belong to Mo, or used to, but then, who knows, she

may probably still own them 20 years later. Take care.

Great Portrait.. looks simple but powerfull!!..

Excellent composition. Nice grainy effect in contrast of the tonal effect. Light as you described is awesome. To me its a great expressive portrait.

If you want, have a look...

Very classy and a classic image. Congrats.

Great expressive portrait :)

Great image with an elegant and sophisticated aura my friend.