Pensive

[Octane (Humayun)]

Imogen, in a naturally pensive pose.

Much larger resolution available here.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM
1/640s f/5.6 at 200.0mm iso100

Note the double catchlights in the left (as looking at the screen) eye? The top specular highlight is the sun, the bottom is the reflection of the sun in the ocean. If you look close/carefully enough, you'll note the horizon line reflected in her eye.

This, is yet again, another experiment in processing linear RAW data. I am very, very pleased with the way the image has turned out. The image has also been carefully and gently airbrushed to undo the sharpness of the lens, as it can be very unflattering seeing every pore.

I love my camera.

Your comments, critique, etc., are most welcome.

H

[ballaratdragons (Ken)]

Stunning overall effect, H.

I like the harsh sharp lines of her lip cracks in contrast to the trusting softness of her face which is also in contrast to the untrust in her eyes.

Emotion contrast V's sharpness contrast. Interesting.

[Octane (Humayun)]

Thanks for looking and the thought-provoking comment, Ken.

She's so natural.

Got a few more to process, yet.

H

[troypiggo (Troy)]

G'day mate. I thought I posted a reply on this first time around, but it mustn't have submitted.

I like the bigger version, particularly her eyes. I think it's because they're not softened? I like being able to see all the details, hairs, pores etc. I know it's not necessarily what the models want to see, but that's the way I am. Detail - gives something more to look at, appreciate the sharpness of the lens etc.

I can't help but think that if you're softening/airbrushing her skin, go all the way and really smooth it out. I don't mean make her look plastic, I hate that. Can't explain what I mean, and I don't have the PS skills to do it myself, but it looks like her forehead, chin, and cheeks could do with more smoothing out in terms of skin tones (freckles?) Not so much the hairs/pours. You know what I mean?

[Octane (Humayun)]

Hey Troy,

I agree wholeheartedly with you regarding skin and softening it. Unless, it is explicitly required, such as in a magazine cover, or for glamour portfolio shots, it shouldn't really be exercised. I will post up a version without softening, just for you, when I get a moment's chance.

I will also post a version with extreme smoothing applied, too. I'm learning as I'm going as I've never smoothed skin before. It's a real art to get it looking /just/ on the point of unbelievable.

Thanks!

H