Chris S. Offline Upload & Sell: Off
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I guess we all respond in different ways, but I have absolutely no problem that not every image shows every possible body part. Sure, some shots don't show a particular hand or foot. Some don't show a particular nostril or earlobe, either. Why, some don't show the nape of the model's neck, or the backs of her ankles. Do I have a problem with it? No. Otherwise, we might as well be doing mug shots.
Every time a photographer makes an image of a human being, he decides what to showcase and what to leave out. I'm not sure why a decision to leave out certain body parts causes some viewers to react negatively--but I myself don't have a problem with it.
Shot number three in the first set, for example, is to my eye the strongest among both groups. That was my immediate impression, and whenever I imagine the image with arms showing, it turns into a visual cliche for me. I think part of the image's power is that it differs from what we expect. When this model appears with arms largely hidden, she is confronting us visually in a way that makes us see her in a fresh and powerful way. I like it. My hat is off for that image.
Also, no problem for me with the white scarf. Sure, it's a prop--but I find it works to my eye. Others' mileage may vary, and obviously does.
Tilting cameras is a huge pet peeve of mine, but oddly, the tilts in the first set mostly work for me. Few tilted shots ever do. But I actually like them better than the similar, untilted shots in the second set. Here, the tilted shots seem dynamic, and the untilted ones, static. Most of the time, tilting seems like a gimmick, and draws me away from the photo. In this case, it draws me in. Strong photos are often made by successfully breaking rules.
Both sets strike me as nice work. The colors work better for me in the first set--but I'm betting that this is highly individual. Seems like in the first set, the photographer gets out of the way of the model--translates her seemingly effortlessly to the viewer. Second set, the photographer seems to impose himself more between us. Again, this is to my eye, and all viewers are different.
Very cool to see a model (and a superb one, at that) photographed by two competent photographers in similar poses and situations. Thanks to both posters.
And to those responders with whom I'm disagreeing, my sincere respects. We may see things differently, but your points are worth careful consideration. I just felt a need to offer a sincerely felt counterpoint.
Best,
--Chris
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