I think that this photo most accurately hit the target, he is gazing right into the camera giving viewers full access deep into this poet's soul. The shot looks as though it were taken by simply tilting a camera right up at his own face. The title of the photo also gives enough information to let you know who he is while the simplicity of the shot still leaves plenty to the imagination as far as who he really is and what stories lie behind those eyeglasses and those faded blue eyes. He is crisp and clear and remains the main subject matter of the photo with just a blurred view of the sky and a mature tree behind him - other's who entered the challenge seem to complicate their portraits with busy backgrounds or other subjects - cats etc in the shot. I think of "Patience Taught By Nature" by Elizabeth Barret Browning when I see this photo - His rugged skin has seen many seasons of hot and cold and though he wears a hat made for adventures, even bearing a dragon's image on it, his expression is so gentle and patient - it seems to have come from years of experience. There were a couple other entries who also hit the target but this one was my absolute favorite. Well Done!
A lot to like about this image. POV works well too, the strange colour on the right side of the face has me wondering where it's coming from but that is just a little nit-pick.
The thing that is of most interest to me is the warm happy relaxed smile that adds so much character to the face. There seems to be some contrast of expression between that smile and the eyes, perhaps it is because of the glasses but the eyes don't appear to have the same sparkle that the smile shows.
Now how can anyone give you anything less than a 10? *lol* Alright. We all love you Bear but you aren't nearly as pretty as some of our other members. :)
Ok...to the shot now and all kidding aside. Your shot is a good representation of your character and shows a bit of who you are. Incorporating the sun was pretty cool and adds a bit of drama to the shot. The background, while mostly blurred out, unfortunately is still a distraction. Your focus is a touch off and looks like the camera decided to focus on your beard. Pretty hard to get really good focus on yourself so that's completely understandable.
Composition is ok but I think a lot of people went with the bullseye nearly dead center framing. For self-portraits its the easiest. Worse tragedies have occurred but it might have been worth trying different framing.
Overall? A pretty good job and who knows? maybe you have another profile pic!
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