richard_lyman1

A stunning photograph. My only critique would be I wish the tree on the left side wasn't cropped. However I know how it is there's usually a reason that you can't see as a viewer of the final product, such as another tree etc. that the photographer doesn't want in the shot.

It breaks some rules, but is still an effective composition. I like it.

Hi Micheal,

Well I've never critiqued an image on this site mostly because I feel a bit intimidated by all the professionals, but I'll you give you my take for what it's worth. I think this shot conveys a lot of emotion which makes it work well. The model facing the tombstone, the forest and light all create a narrative, and one that feels very sad to me. Although I can't see the models expression closely her isolation and posture expresses sadness, loneliness, perhaps even grief or despair. It's very effective on an emotional level. The setting, light quality and overgrowth of all the vines work well too.I particularly like the juxtaposition of the model facing the large tombstone.

 

Technically it's well done also, although there is some loss of shadow detail in the upper corners, that is to be expected facing the light source and there is enough in the lower half of the picture. It looks a little soft from what I'm used to, but not so much to be very detrimental, it gives it an ethereal quality and an antique look that works well with the subject matter. A very nice photograph that works on many levels.