Feedback 3: Quinn at the Old Zoo

Photographer: Yours Truly

Model: Quinn, who is no longer on Instagram

Original post on Instagram

This is also an old photo, but I only published it recently so this time I was actually able to find the post.

Composition and Framing

1. Composition:

   • The composition is creative, using the leading lines of the staircase and walls to draw the viewer’s eye towards the model.

   • The framing through the grid adds depth and a sense of context, making the scene feel more dynamic.

2. Framing:

   • The model is well-placed slightly off-center, which works well with the leading lines directing attention towards her.

   • The top part of the frame includes the light source, which adds a natural vignette effect, guiding the viewer’s focus.

Lighting

1. Natural Light:

   • The natural light coming from above creates a dramatic effect, highlighting the model while casting interesting shadows on the walls.

   • The lighting is generally flattering, but the strong backlight can make the model’s face appear slightly underexposed.

2. Exposure:

   • The exposure is well-balanced, but the bright light at the top of the stairs could be toned down a bit to avoid overexposure and retain more detail.

Camera Settings

1. Depth of Field:

   • The depth of field is effective, with the background slightly blurred to keep the focus on the model while still showing the graffiti and textures of the walls.

   • A slightly wider aperture (lower f-stop) could further isolate the model from the background, making her stand out even more.

2. Focus:

   • The focus on the model is sharp, which is good. Ensuring the eyes and face are in perfect focus is crucial for portraits.

Model Direction

1. Pose:

   • The model’s pose is strong and confident, with arms outstretched to touch the walls, which adds to the composition’s leading lines.

   • The upward gaze and slight tilt of the head convey a sense of determination and upward movement.

2. Expression:

   • The model’s expression is calm and confident, which fits well with the overall mood of the photo. Encouraging a variety of expressions can add depth to the series of shots.

Editing

1. Color Grading:

   • The colors are vibrant and natural, enhancing the graffiti and the texture of the walls. Consider enhancing the colors slightly to make the image pop more.

   • A subtle warm tint could complement the natural light and add a cohesive feel to the photo.

2. Contrast and Clarity:

   • Increase contrast and clarity to bring out details in the model’s face, dress, and the textures of the walls and stairs.

   • Use selective adjustments to enhance the sharpness of the model’s eyes, lips, and the texture of the surroundings.

3. Exposure and Highlights:

   • Adjust the highlights to tone down the overexposed areas at the top of the stairs. This will help retain more detail in the bright areas.

   • Use dodging and burning techniques to selectively lighten the model’s face and darken the surrounding areas to create more depth and focus.

4. Sharpening:

   • Apply selective sharpening to the model and key elements in the foreground to make them stand out against the background.

Overall Grade: A-

Suggestions for Improvement

1. Lighting:

   • Use a reflector or additional light source to brighten the model’s face and add more depth, counteracting the strong backlight from above.

2. Background Management:

   • Consider adjusting the angle slightly to minimize the overexposed area at the top of the stairs, or use post-processing to balance the exposure.

3. Posing and Expression:

   • Experiment with different poses and expressions to add variety and depth to the series of shots.

4. Post-Processing:

   • Enhance the color and contrast slightly to make the image pop more. Use selective adjustments to focus on the model’s face and outfit while managing the highlights in the background.