No Pretense

And no flaws. Perfect portrait Jeff. The issues on previous posts are all addressed here. Top honors for this one. I just sent you an email witha link that you might like.

Hello Jeff. This is a beautiful image. The composition is wonderful. The expression perfect. The eyes tack sharp. The blue "thingy" ;-) sets it off perfectly. In a way it reminds me of a portrait of an Afgani girl that was on the cover of National Geographic a good number of years ago. She was absolutely gorgeous. Then a few years ago Nat. Geo. sent representatives back to try and find her. They finally did. But was very difficult to tell it was the same person. She aged about 50 years in the 15-20 years since she was on the cover of the magazine. They were able to verify that it was her because of some markings in her eyes. Very hard life these folks live. This girl may catch a break...but tradition in Afganistan says her chances aren't the best.

 

To answer your question in my image "Limited Air Space"...I have no idea how to create a frame from scratch in Photoshop. I bought a software package from On One Software that has hundreds of frames. It's so easy a caveman could do it.

 

Back to the image above. I'll close by saying very well done Jeff.

This is excellent. Her eyes are compelling, it's beautifully framed and processed and her look is superb.

Thanks all...I really appreciate the kind words.

 

Tiff...my wife Lesa forwarded me your email...I can't wait to check out the frame site...doing it the old fashion way is indeed cumbersome. I bought a program online that some other PNers recommended but it is really hit and miss...and you can't see the results while you're building the frame.

 

Gary, I remember seeing that same program...the years had indeed been rough on the Nat Geo Afghan Girl. As a father of two daughters I have so much empathy for the girls here in Afghanistan and I can't help wonder what will become of them when I go back home.

 

Jeff, Thanks for your kind words...I really wish I could get out more with my camera...the security situation definitely limits my opportunites.

 

All....I'm thinking about posting this image for critique, any advice on what category...children or portraits? Thanks. Jeff.

A stunning portrait with magical soft light....Regards

Jeff, very nice portrait. well composed and exposed . Her head cover fits nicely with her skin tones. Beautiful.

 

I hope you are well in the far end of the world.....

Keith, Thanks for stopping by again...and thanks also for the kind words, I alway appreciate your wisdom and advice.

 

Pnina, I'm glad you like this portrait...it is one of my favorites from the ones I've taken here in Afghanistan. I have much empathy for the people here...particularly the kids.

Wonderful. Lively and lovely portrait. Excellent eyes and the skin tone. Rgds.

A young Afghan girl from Kabul...I am amazed how proud and resilient

the people are here in Afghanistan...particularly the kids. If you are

willing to look, they will offer you a pure glimpse in to who they are, so

real and no pretense.

It makes me think of the world well known portrait of Steve McCurry ! great.

Congrats.

Claire

A wonderful, intense portrait Jeff. I wonder of her future, being a woman in Afghanistan is very hard, and she knows it, her beautiful eyes are so serious. I hope that the world can do something to help those people.

Your introductory lines propel this extraordinary portrait into a higher level. This is a real masterpiece. Compliments, best regards and take care, El (max)

Wonderful portrait, it's so pure and her eyes really captures you.

 

Best, Cigdem

Such a lovely face in a third world country. I can see the small scratches on her face possibly due to lack of parental care. Kids are so resilient - they are just happy to eke out a life of their own anywhere they can find it.

 

Our own siblings are so fortunate to be protected and cared for all the time. That;s why traveling to other countries can open up one's eye. A stunning image Kilgo. Congrats.

Thanks to everyone who has provided such positive feedback for this portrait, everytime I look in her eyes I realized why I'm here...hopefully some day I'll be able to return under better circumstances.

 

Rita, as always, your visits are appreciated

 

El, likewise, I am privilaged to be acquainted with such talent photographers.

 

Cigdem, thanks for the visit, I enjoyed visiting your porfolio and hope you return often.

 

Alec, I really like your portraits...I have a fondness for commercial and fashion work, you are very good.

A bunch of emotions al in one imagine, great!

A beautiful capture of this little beauty, I love the blue shawl, it really complements her skin tones and eyes...very nice close up details, light, and color. She has warm eyes and a kind face, you captured her gentle spirit. Very nice to see people from other places, and it's especially nice to see the work of one of our very brave soldiers...thank you for all that you do. :)

very original and nice colors good job ...

btw thanks for the critique i really appreciate it ..

A brilliant portrait, Kilgo...such expressive eyes...Marjorie

Beautiful girl; beautiful portrait.

Makes me feel all the more helpless...

Beautiful portait. Perfect focus and wonderful colour. I love her eyes. Well done!

J, this is wonderful. What a beautiful, innocent, pure, little face, framed in that lovely blue shall. I see what you mean about the eyes, "windows to the soul". What makes this girl's portrait heartbreaking to me was news about the new laws regarding women rights. 7/7 All the best.

Good sharpness and good colors, I think it is beautiful.

 

Best regards Tore

Beautiful and sweet image, Kilgo. Something to enjoy, congratulations

Very cute portrait.