Syed Shakhawat Kamal, APSA, PPSA
August 2026 - Soldier DDG 14
Original
About the Image(s)
This image, "Soldier DDG 14," was captured on 5th Feb 2023 in Jaisalmer, India. It was early evening at a concert organized by the Indian Government for the Desert Festival. While I was looking for a photo opportunity, the Soldier caught my eye. You can see the rest attached.
I took this shot with my Samsung S23 mobile camera. It has an ISO of 50 and no flash. A simple crop and light adjustment were done using the Windows photo editor and there it is for your feedback.
I hope you enjoy the image and any feedback is welcome.
5 comments posted
Hi Kamal. In my opinion, this is a great image. The lighting, color, composition and post processing are all very effective. The only suggestion I have is to brighten the darkest part of the soldier's face just a tad. Congratulations on capturing a very interesting and dramatic cultural moment. Posted: 08/10/2026 17:23:47
Hi Kamal - I love this shot! The strong pose and your placement of the soldier makes this photograph. The rich colors of his ceremonial uniform have been highlighted beautifully and the background is nicely handled. Ingrid's comments on lighting the face ever so slightly are worth considering. Some might suggest a little more headroom above the "fan". While a little unconventional, I think that the composition works quite well as is; the lack of space at the top, to my mind, adds to the overall impact of the image. Well done! Posted: 08/13/2026 04:21:10
Hi Kamal,
You certainly captured the intensity of this soldier. Your composition effectively communicates your story. I'm trying to decide if the bright spot under his chin, along his left shoulder, and beside his eye are simply rim lighting of a bit of a halo. It's not a big deal, but it did distract my eye a bit.
Thanks for sharing!
Karen Posted: 08/14/2026 23:33:15
You certainly captured the intensity of this soldier. Your composition effectively communicates your story. I'm trying to decide if the bright spot under his chin, along his left shoulder, and beside his eye are simply rim lighting of a bit of a halo. It's not a big deal, but it did distract my eye a bit.
Thanks for sharing!
Karen Posted: 08/14/2026 23:33:15
Hi Kamal,
I can see why this guy grabbed your attention. That headdress is seriously striking, and the rim lighting works a treat - especially that soft back glow giving him a nice bit of shape. His gaze has real intent too, which pulls you straight into the portrait.
Well spotted, nicely captured, and processed really well. Lovely shot. Posted: 08/17/2026 02:52:02
I can see why this guy grabbed your attention. That headdress is seriously striking, and the rim lighting works a treat - especially that soft back glow giving him a nice bit of shape. His gaze has real intent too, which pulls you straight into the portrait.
Well spotted, nicely captured, and processed really well. Lovely shot. Posted: 08/17/2026 02:52:02
Hi Kamel,
A really nice image. Thanks for sharing.
Best regards,
Greg Posted: 08/18/2026 21:44:57
A really nice image. Thanks for sharing.
Best regards,
Greg Posted: 08/18/2026 21:44:57