Is This Image Underexposed?

[Adel99]

Hello,
Here is a photo of my friend's nephew, followed by EXIF data.



Camera: Nikon D7000
Lens: Nikkor 50mm 1.4G
Program: Manual
Shutter Speed: 1/250 sec
Aperture: F/4.5
ISO: 250
Built-in Flash: Commander, --, did not fire
Other Flash: SB-900, TTL +2.0, bounced from decorated, white and colored ceiling

Q1: Is this image underexposed?
Q2: How can you tell if an image is under- or overexposed? May it be just how you feel about it? Or are there rules and standards for that?
Q3: Could you help me learn by briefly commenting on lighting and composition? (sorry if this question is not specific)

Thank you in advance.
Adel,

[Niresangwa]

Originally Posted by Adel99

Q1: Is this image underexposed?

Generally, no, it's rather well exposed imo. Certain parts are overexposed, such as the front of her shirt, and there isn't much light in the eyes, though generally, it's not uncommon to have some shadow and some blown areas without the whole image being deemed 'crap' because of OE or UE.

Originally Posted by Adel99

Q2: How can you tell if an image is under- or overexposed? May it be just how you feel about it? Or are there rules and standards for that?

Usually a lack of detail due to OE or UE on the most important or key components of the image. Some styles of image actually hinge upon intentionally over or under exposing certain parts for creative effect. Its a judgement call.

Originally Posted by Adel99

Q3: Could you help me learn by briefly commenting on lighting and composition? (sorry if this question is not specific)

Nothing startlingly interesting about the composition, the background is excessively distracting for me with an uninspiring subject placement. I would have gone for a closer crop of the face, unless you really love your couches. I can understand why you would like them though.

[Adel99]

Niresangwa, thank you so much. Your answers to my questions are well stated and of great help. Thank you again.