Frankly, I don't have high hopes for this one. I felt rushed. The model had other commitments, and I don't feel like I got the shot I wanted before she had to leave. I was trying not to create a photo that was gratuitous, or objectifying...I'm not sure if I missed the mark or not...
the idea here is, of course, "silky smooth." Frankly, I can't think of anything more pleasant and smooth as the soft touch of a woman's skin.
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The problem, as I see it, is that you are showing the transitional area between her buttocks and her anus (especially-visible on the right buttock at the edge if the shadow). The idea of a woman's buttocks being silky and smooth is a good one. But, that transitional area near her anus (whatever the name for it is) pulls my eye right in where I don't want it to be and detracts mightily from what you were trying to achieve. I think that's the reason for many of the comments you got. If you re-took the photo at such an angle that we couldn't see that part of her anatomy, it would be a lot more effective.
I actually like the shot very much. I know how difficult getting a tasteful and artistic shot can be, so kudos to the job you did. I like what you did with the pose, the lighting and shadows. Yes, maybe you can do better, but I still like the product you put out. To tell you the truth, it inspires me. Hope to see more of your magnificent work in the future!!
Your model should not take it personally. Calls for her to clean or wax serve to demonstrate that a little body hair really throws people. Maybe it's one of the cultural dividing factors between sensual/pornographic. Just a thought! Peace,
I have no issues with negative comments or critiques. That is not what chapped my ass at all. I expected a lower score, to tell the truth. I am perfectly aware that folks have different boundaries for what they consider good taste, and I can respect that. I'll argue the pornographic claim. I'll agree that it is more erotic, but I wouldn't call it porn.
What upset me was the cracks not at the image but at the model herself. Blast me all you want. I can take it, but one would expect a modicum of respect for the subject...a little tact, if you will. Perhaps I'm a tad more sensitive to it than others, but I tend to be protective of the ladies who offer themselves to my camera.
I think that I'll forgo critiquing this image and offer you some friendly advice. Value every comment you receive, every one of them. Firing back at those that take time to comment on your images only serves to dissuade the rest of us from offering our opinions. I looked through each of the comments offered here, and I really can't see what pissed you off so much. Looking at the comments and the photo together, I am even more lost. You said yourself that you felt rushed while shooting, and it really shows. You entered an image below your capabilities, and you paid the price. We all do it. If you don't feel that you can subject yourself to comments, critiques and even criticisms, maybe you shouldn't submit any more. Sorry to be blunt, but I try to speak the truth. Good luck with future entries, and I hope that you continue to offer entries.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide a critique on your entry,
Eric
I felt the lighting was just off in the fact that it created such a harsh shadow. The shadow (and the pose angle) made it look like someone needed to cleanse themselves. Don't mean to be offensive, just wanted to clarify on what I thought was just a tad off with the shot.
Yes, skin can be very smooth and silky, the shot did not translate IMO. Otherwise, it was a good idea. (I believe I'm trying to say the same thing as Lactobeezor ... who did a better job of expression than I.)
I speak only for myself. I do not think childish when I view the comments. I think that it is hard to put in words the feelings. Look at the shot again without feeling and as an artist.
I too also thought of doing a shot quite like this. But with the model prone. Light from the side at an angle. Camera from the side. Like so many baby shots but with an adult feel. Like you said there is nothing smoother than the female skin.
Well, I just can't help but to comment on the childish comments left here.
I can respect someone who doesn't like the photo and bothers to explain why. I can even respect the opinions of those who feel that the photo is beyond their personal limitation, but "wash up a little better" is pretty disrespectful and sophomoric.
Woohoo! 15 "1" votes.... looks like I was able to really offend plenty of people. Lets see if I can't piss off 20 next time.
This is really borderline. I do think it meets the challenge, and the play on light seems alright. I just think its to obvious, and too blatent. I think it would score better if you took another angle.
Wow. Sexy shot. Should really offend quite a few people! :-)
Fits the challenge. I like the b&w. The bottom of the foot is a bit rough, considering the theme, but it's silky smooth compared to my own old foot.
I do not get offended by nudes in the challenges - actually I see some very tasteful and beautiful ones now and then. But this is not one of them and in my opinion you've crossed tha line of what's good taste here. Can't give you more than a 2 for this...
A sure winner for the 'fart on you' challenge. Personally, I think a butt picture is a fine idea for silky smooth. However, all I wish to perceive is 'cheeks' - this gives me more insight than desired. No vote.
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