Greetings from the Critique Club.
Hi Ashley,
Welcome to DPC. Congratulations on your second submission.
As you mention in your comments - this is a lovely, relaxed, accessible candid shot (okay, you didn't use those words, but this is what I understood). Everyone can identify with this shot. I like how you have framed the arms so they lead towards the face. And I loe the lightly tussled hair - all wonderfully soft and gentle.
I think there are two main areas where the voters have marked you down. As luv2photo commented, it has a slight feel of being a snapshot. Nothing wrong with that when capturing a memory, but DPC voters like to feel people have made an effort for the challenge. The secord area is the eyes. There are exceptiosn, but usually it is the eyes that make a portrait work - they really enable the viewer to engage with the subject. I think you would have done loads better if you could hae got her to look at the camera. No need for fancy clothes and poses - just capture those eyes.
It is my hope that these insights are helpful and constructive. Please feel free to PM me if you have any questions regarding this critique. And please remember to mark it "Helpful" if you found it so. Good luck with future challenges.
Cheers
Paul |