Martin Newland, QPSA
February 2024 - Portrait of Sina Aria
Original
About the Image(s)
This image was taken during a studio modelling class a few years ago. I had never worked with Sina before, and during the conversation while shooting, I asked him what he did when he was not modelling. He replied "Yoga" so I said "Show me some yoga positions" and this image was the result.
I can't remember what studio lighting I used; possibly a soft soft box on either side and pointing down on him from above. I think the dull catch lights in his eyes are probably the light reflecting up from the light coloured floor.
Canon 5D Mark iv, 1/160, f/16, ISO 100
Lens: Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art 016
This round’s discussion is now closed!
8 comments posted
Superb use of real-life anatomy for showing lines!
I count 4 triangles and possibly a fifth one if you imagine a line from right toe to left knee. The face gives an impression of intense concentration and I can count another three triangles on the face adding to the intensity.
Because there is so much in the image I think the black and white version has an edge and improves the message and facial expression.
I would add background to give him more space mainly at the top and sides. Posted: 02/03/2024 01:05:17
I count 4 triangles and possibly a fifth one if you imagine a line from right toe to left knee. The face gives an impression of intense concentration and I can count another three triangles on the face adding to the intensity.
Because there is so much in the image I think the black and white version has an edge and improves the message and facial expression.
I would add background to give him more space mainly at the top and sides. Posted: 02/03/2024 01:05:17
Thanks Piers,
As I mentioned below, in reply to Jim, I have used this image in competitions in both the colour and mono format, both with equal success and it is time to "retire" it. Posted: 02/05/2024 21:39:09
As I mentioned below, in reply to Jim, I have used this image in competitions in both the colour and mono format, both with equal success and it is time to "retire" it. Posted: 02/05/2024 21:39:09
I, too, prefer the BW version of this image.
I feel that the intensity and musculature are accented better with the monochrome.
A bit more room around your subject would keep it from feeling cramped.
Well done.
Posted: 02/05/2024 18:11:21
I feel that the intensity and musculature are accented better with the monochrome.
A bit more room around your subject would keep it from feeling cramped.
Well done.
Posted: 02/05/2024 18:11:21
Thanks Jim,
As I mentioned in the introduction, this is an old image. It has done the rounds in both mono and colour competitions and has done quite well. I am not sure why I cropped it so tightly, but as it is due to be "retired" and so I will leave it as it is. Posted: 02/05/2024 21:37:11
As I mentioned in the introduction, this is an old image. It has done the rounds in both mono and colour competitions and has done quite well. I am not sure why I cropped it so tightly, but as it is due to be "retired" and so I will leave it as it is. Posted: 02/05/2024 21:37:11
I, too, think the B&W version of this image works better. I also agree with Piers in adding a bit of canvas to the top and viewers right. Nice pose with lots of concentration. I studied Yoga for 20 years and although this is not a difficult pose it does take balance and concentration to keep that balance. Nicely done, Martin! Posted: 02/09/2024 20:27:27
Terri Adcock
I prefer the colour version of this image. I feel a connection with his face that i don't in mono. I might be tempted to add some texture to the background Posted: 02/18/2024 17:25:50
I agree with you Terri, a textured background would add to the appeal of this image. I have used both the colour and the mono versions, that I have shown here, in competitions with some success and for some reason it has never occured to me to add a background. If I wasn't retiring this image I would probably add one. Posted: 02/19/2024 04:37:15
Terri Adcock
I prefer the colour version of this image. I feel a connection with his face that i don't in mono. I might be tempted to add some texture to the background Posted: 02/23/2024 20:26:17