Why do they like this shot?

[wannabephotographer]

I'm more of a product photographer than anything. I'm trying to expand my business and a designer that I shoot for asked me to shoot a model(really an actress) for her. So I gave it a shot and she really liked this shot. I know it is technically flawed but she really liked it, the actress too.

She ended up hanging it on her wall at her store and seems like a few of her customers liked it too. So much that I've since gotten a few jobs from it. Can you tell me what I did so right in this shot? Thanks.

1/200 sec
F7.1
65mm
Off camera flash used.

[CiiVii]

If you look at it from a non-photographer's point of view, her complexion looks fresh, her eyes clear and sparkly, her pose confident yet beautiful, and the light lift the wind is giving her hair makes you feel that you are viewing it in real time.

Oh, and it's by a brick wall and everyone knows that cool photos have brick walls in them

[PhilD41]

I think CiiVii may have figured it out. It has to be the brick wall. In all honesty, it is a good shot. Not perfect, but none are. The composition is good with the wall balancing out the subject, the lighting is well done, the DOF is nice with enough in foucus to put context to the subject but enough to removed the subject from the background. The think I like most about it is the color though. The colors are dead on and are very vivid. It is just enjoyable to look at. Well done!

[ttosifa]

I like the shot too. I think what makes it so pleasing is that one's eye is immediately drawn to her and there are no compositional distractions. The contrast between her face and other elements, plus her position within the frame, are quite nice. Yeah, you can look around and see stuff you wish weren't in the photo, but you don't see it unless you go looking for it.

[LeeR]

You made her look powerful.

[statichash]

I agree with the others - most notably the brick wall. The picture looks vibrant fresh and exudes power.

Cheers!

[SusanH1970]

Overall it's very pleasing to the eye. The lighting and exposure are very good, the skin tones look natural, the brick wall adds color and texture, and compositionally the leading lines of the wall draw the eye right to the subject. Well done!

[candleman]

thats one incredible looking brick wall... thats why..



but seriously.. CiiVi nailed it perfectly.

[tasmo2]

I think LeeR hit it right on! You made her look powerful, and that is hot.. kwim? She could be wearing a superwoman outfit in this one! LOL!

[MO Photos]

I like it too. I'm curious to know why you say its flawed, though? Some insight please?