Mary and Roy Popkin are friends of mine at work. He's 86, she's 74, and they've been married 35 years. They're two of the sweetest people you'll meet, with a great sense of humor and a keen eye for what's what in the world.
I admire both of them greatly, not the least because they retired and then came back to work for the federal government as contractors so they could continue contributing to society.
All through the shoot, they were having fun together. Right at the beginning, when I first asked them to look at each other, they almost simultaneously asked each other "who are you again" followed by a big laugh. I hope my marriage is in as good shape when we get to 35 years.
I'm not sure this is the best way to edit the picture, but it's the best I can do for them. I hope voters focus on the great warmth and genuine love they expressed more than the editing.
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Place: 96 out of 219 Avg (all users): 5.5922 Avg (commenters): 5.8333 Avg (participants): 5.2717 Avg (non-participants): 5.7474 Views since voting: 1044 Views during voting: 366 Votes: 282 Comments: 17 Favorites: 0
Jeff, you did a great job of capturing that "thing" that people who have been together forever have. I know, 'cause Lisa and I have bee together for 28 years and that whole silliness thing is part of the magic. I see it. You got it. Nice job.
I like most everything about it except the white background - it dose detract from the warmth, IMO. Nice job though and thanks for sharing the details!
I was surprised you didn't score higher. I agree, delightful couple you can tell they are connected souls and FWIW, I didn't think the "harsh" white was too detracting.
What a delightful couple! Thanks for sharing their story, and I bet they're quite happy with this. As for the editing - the background seems too something... bright/harsh maybe? Something that gives the photo more depth might be more appropriate. Check with some of the portrait "pros" like Louis for ideas.
The pose is very intimate and sincere. I like that. However the totally blown out background is very cold and doesn't add to the warmth in their gaze. Quite harsh lighting for older people. In fact, a colour shot might have added some of that warmth and tenderness that the photo is lacking.
I like the expression you caught. They look like they really love each other. I don't really care for the blown whites though. I think the lighting you used was maybe a bit too harsh. Because of the bright white background, they look like they were cut and pasted onto it. I think with softer lighting you could make a great portrait of these two people. They both have interesting faces.
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