Critique for newborn shot

[JessieB]

Hello,

I have gotten a ton of feedback on this shot from friends and family, but I am feeling that maybe it's a little biased. Would love to get feedback on this image from other peers on the site. Let me know your thoughts.

http://jessiebloede.zenfolio.com/p59...A3F8#364291064

Thanks,
Jessie

[WooD]

This is a great thing to read before posting.


Critique Forum Rules

[JessieB]

Sorry, I'm confused. To my knowledge, I followed all of the posting rules. If I am missing something, please let me know so that i can repost for critique.

[Liz Caldwell]

I think Wood is referring to your Exif data. It shows what ISO, shutter speed, and f. stop, and allows us to better critique your shots.

I did take a look at the photo, and it's probably just cause I don't have any children, but I find it kinda disturbing... It's a good photo, don't get me wrong.

Technical wise, it's a bit dark for me, a simple levels adjustment would fix that. This is where Exif comes in handy, since I don't know if it was post processing, incorrect exposure of poor lighting that lead to the darkness...

[Digidave]

What were you trying to achieve with this shot? If it was the joy of childbirth, my opinion is that you failed. Not trying to be mean here, so please don't be offended. It's just that the lighting is all wrong for a gleeful, joyful effect. Your lighting is geared more to the dark & devious. That is why some people, including myself, will think this shot is disturbing in appearance.

[Wanman]

I am with DigiDave on this photo, it looks way to dark (not just in lighting) for such a bright and joyful moment. It's not one I would personally display. my question is who is holding the baby here? Also the position of the adults hand play into the darkness of this photo held at the throat and groin area.

[RexK_Cozumel]

If you were going for a evil horror movie type effect then it is spot on. The dark shadows over the mans face and the blood and all really give this photo a evil horror feel to it. Even the look on the kids face says horror.... If this is supposed to be a happy picture then I would trash it for something more cleaned up.

[WooD]

Originally Posted by Digidave

What were you trying to achieve with this shot? If it was the joy of childbirth, my opinion is that you failed. Not trying to be mean here, so please don't be offended. It's just that the lighting is all wrong for a gleeful, joyful effect. Your lighting is geared more to the dark & devious. That is why some people, including myself, will think this shot is disturbing in appearance.

I couldn't agree more.