Thanks for the comments everyone.
No Diffuser Mike other than my carcass standing directly in the middle of the natural light from the large window directly behind me and Mary-Louise was directly in front, I purposely underexposed by about 1 stop though from what I recall ( I'll recheck the EXIF data from the original ). So this subdued the background and really brings the focus to the Oops I'm caught expression.
But it also looks "underexposed" too. This "flattens" the image.
My Simple Suggestion: Create a new adjustment layer, Levels. Then enter the following numbers in the input levels boxes on the levels dialog box (histogram) 0, 0.80, 202. Compare the "after" to the "before" and see which you prefer.
I prefer the "after" levels adjustment.
Of course this is a matter of "taste" and you may slide the sliders to get a desired result.
However, I do think the adjusted image has more vibrancy, "pop" and looks better. And I do believe it would make a much nicer print for the family.
I hope these comments help you.
I hope you will help me too. If we help each other, the world would be a nicer place. I have a Global Project underway and could use another comment from your part of the world. I am not asking for an image 'critique.' Instead, I am asking for your "Impressions" or how any image affects you or moves you. You don't need to comment on anything technical as I am more interested in how you respond to the emotions, expressions, and 'art' rather than the technical side of photographs. Just pick one of the 62 "Impressions" threads I have started here. They are easy to find by typing "impressions" in the search field/box on the main page of this forum. Find one or more images you like and share your impression.
