Low Key Portrait

[TylerGS]

This is a portrait I shot almost a year ago. Thought I'd post it for a critique.

Exposure 1/80
f/ 5.3
focal length 45
ISO 400

[Niresangwa]

It's a touch dark, even for low-key. Did you PP this? The contrast looks like it's been pumped.

That said, I do like it, good pose, and nice eyes, can't tell from the size of the image posted, but focus looks good and composition with the dead space...

...but can't get away from the encroachment of the shadows on the left side of her face, she's melting into the background, and her eye is a little close to that for comfort imho.

The easiest cure for this would be to get a rim light in there behind her to define her, if not directly lighting... that way you could maintain the look you're going for without losing her to shadow.

I always feel that low-key with color is a tricky thing to pull off, as inherently its less 'stylized' than B&W therefore open to a wider range of issues.

[TylerGS]

It is post processed. Do you think the contrast is too high?

Good point about using a rim light. =)

Thanks for the pointers!

[NickS]

I really like the composition on this. I've always been a fan of that "melting into the background" look.

My only issue is that, to me, there seems to be a conflict between the mood of the lighting and the expression on her face. I find that low-key photos work better when the subject itself is dark, too.

But otherwise, a really great shot.

[Laurenbiz]

I like the darkness and the low-key feel, but she does not look low-key. Her earrings and the plaid shirt make everything about her seem so 'busy.' I hope that makes sense.

I love the lighting and composition, though!