Critique for Eion J
After every workshop attendees can submit images for a final critique - this is a valueable part of the learning process.
These images were taken at our recent workshop with Lulu Lockhart at Image Red studios by Eion J.
Lovely delicate image. A good example of a high key image, lots of bright tones across the image but still plenty of detail in the shirt and hair and so on.
Keeping the figure central in the frame matches the pose and expression giving a very serene, stable image. It is not the kind of shot that needs drama - instead it's very wistfullness is ambigious and invites the user to wonder what is going on in the subjects mind.
I would zap that intrusive brickwork in the top right.
A really great example of studio figure study. You have caught the angle of the light exactly right. Every shape and curve of Lulu's body and face is perfectly captured to create a very defined, almost sculptural look. You choice of crop is spot on.
My favourite part is the light reflected light onto the bust from the hand.
While I like this image, there is a lot in it that does not look decisive.
The legs/hips have a little bend in them, either straight or deep bend is needed. The post is barely visible - why is it there? The wall is not quite sharp, not quite soft.
Overall these make the whole thing look more accidental than deliberate.
A couple of other points, notice how raising the arms on a smaller busted girl like Lulu really flattens the bust out - nothing wrong with that - but be aware of it.
Also, there seems to be some dirt on Lulu's legs.
Finally, the hands are too flat to camera.
Really good head shot. Like the first image I really like the way that the expression and pose is ambiguous - it leaves so much room for the viewer to interpret their own feelings into the image and invites the viewer to do exactly that.
Conventionally the angle of the crop and arm's arrival into the frame would be wrong, but in this case they are a very dramatic touch, almost vertigonous. Be warned - judges will either love or hate that. It is very "marmite".
Good set of 4 images. Your black and white work is well controlled, very subtle and delicate but at the same time maintaining all the detail required. If you can take the lessons from the third image and learn how to avoid them so your work becomes more your control and decision I think you could produce some strong work.
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I run regular workshops for beginners and experts alike. I like to run a mix of styles and types. Masterclasses, portfolio builds, technical and artistic sessions available.
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