Her Eyes Speak

Jeff, I can see why you might have a soft spot for this young lady. Her image appearing here and elsewhere in this folder speak to that of a hopeful child wishing for nothing more than what any child would, something we take for granted in the West.

 

Stay safe, my friend, and know that your work (professionally and photographically) doesn't go unnoticed. Happy '09!

as Michael remarked it's easy to see how this beauty stole a chunk of your heart. What a sweet child and what a fine picture, and poignant indeed under the circumstances. The choice of tone/light is just about perfect as somehow it expresses in my mind a sense of place even if I never visited Afghanistan. The shot also recollects the intense image of a few years back of the now famous afghan girl in the cover of National Geographic.

 

Then as today there isn't much to be optimistic about. But unlike the NG cover, your image promises a view of the future without endless violence horror and madness, even if this girl has already seen plenty of it in her short life... To this jaded middle aged viewer, however, the world remains closer to what a Woody Allen character once explained to another: 'life is divided into the horrible and the miserable'. He goes on giving solid advice with: 'be happy that you're just miserable',

 

Yes, I lovely portrait.

 

Be well and safe, Carlos

Michael and Carlos, thank you both for your kind words...I really appreciate it. I was lucky indeed to get a chance to interact with these kids here in Kabul...when you see them first hand you can't help but open your heart and want to help in anyway possible. What has amazed me about the Afghan people is their pride and heritage...sometimes a double edged sword granted, but most Afghans look forward to the day that they can live in peace and take care of their families like we all do regardless of where we live. I hope and pray that what we are doing helps facilitate this worthy goal...and I feel a sense of pride myself for pitching in, even if it is only a small measure. This particular young lady did indeed stand out from the crowd over at this school...I was impressed by her boldness and confidence....unique characteristics for young women in Afghanistan. I could see my own two daughters in the eyes of many of these kids...and I wish them all an equal chance at happiness. Thanks again for the sentiments and I'm glad you enjoyed the portrait. Jeff.

Lovely young lady, you took an excellent portrait!

 

Regards.

 

Alberto

Jeff, this is a knockout. Those eyes are stunning, and her expression is timeless. I don't know how you have processed it but I wonder how it would look with a little less toning. Regardless, this is one of the best portraits that I have seen in a long time.

A young Afghan school girl from Kabul...I see in her eyes a hope for the

future. Comments and critiques welcome.

Hello Jeff. This is a wonderful image with very thoughtful post-processing. You are right on the money with this lovely portrait. Cheers.