kiss me in the d.a.r.k. dark tonight

The last image of this artist that I critiqued succeeded simply on its looks, it was a very pretty image and wonderful for it, this however adds more in the way of a story for its subject and while not being necessarily an improvement for it is easily as enjoyable. That slight emotional connection it establishes though can only be seen as a good thing.

There is here a stark contrast between the background and the model, not just in the usual manner of focus to blur but in the shear expanse that the background deploys, uncluttered but for some branches in the top right the shot is visually all about the model. This is risky, any element could easily mess with the others but the balance is perfect and very very impressive. You may be wondering how something so empty could require such skill. Well, while it is not the main focus of the shot it does set the mood of the image. It instils a sense of searching, the eye moves about the space expecting something but finding only blurred branches and the suggestion of cloud to opaque to really fix upon, the faded tones and cold cast hinting at melancholy, longing for warmth. This then takes you back to the model, where you probably started looking and can now really see balances the shot perfectly. Cleverly posed to suggest movement, walking somewhere but looking off in the other direction as if searching for a land mark, something to give her bearing and position within that bleak scape. Her arms suggest at also seeking warmth and the hunch hints at sadness, giving herself protection.

It has been suggested I read to much into shots, perhaps though this is how I enjoy these works. Removed my addition of prose though and the details of composition, cast and posture remain. This shot is put together with ability not often seen and as such is a wonderful reference for people looking to shoot in this style as well as a great piece of art.