Mike, "wondering what's for chow" or wandering if he will survive the battle? The crystal clarity of the actor vs the haziness of the background is wonderful, and really isolates the subject of your photo. Nicely done!   Posted: 03/05/2023 12:58:32

The portrait is spot on. As if if you brought this soldier back to life. and the details - so many. Well done !
The " adjustments to reduce the background" - are very well seen around the hat edges especially on the top and on the left.   Posted: 03/05/2023 18:58:16

Great character portrait Mike. He makes a very believable soldier, rugged and a bit care-worn. Well done. Love it.   Posted: 03/10/2023 01:19:20

Hi Mike, this is a nicely accomplished, studio inspired portrait. Well Done.

Reminds a little of 19th century portrait specialist, Julia Margaret Cameron ... she has few similar illuminated portraits, though most are rendered in a softer aesthetic.
  Posted: 03/16/2023 06:09:59

Mike, a great portrait shot. Great details, sharp and nicely exposed   Posted: 03/17/2023 21:11:51

Hi, Mike. Nice capture. The subject appears to be standing in the shade on an otherwise sunny day so you were able to get some good detail and a natural expression. Your description of the image didn't say if you cropped in from a larger image or not, but it may be a little tight. I'm sure there is more detail in the stock of the rifle and on the subject himself that may be interesting to include. I do love the intimate study of a rugged face, though. It appears as a candid portrait, but I do wonder if the background may help tell the story by providing some context; appears to be be just trees and a field so probably not. Would love to hear more about the setting and your approach to capturing this image as I am working to be less timid in capturing this type of image.   Posted: 03/28/2023 07:59:55