The title, in fact, makes the viewer look straight away for the feather. Then the eye moves down to the face - as you say 'demonic'. Thank goodness there are oddballs like this around to make our world richer and to give us good photographic subjects. I like the central composition and the dark background, keeping attention on the subject. A picture that raises many questions - who is he? why that expression on his face? why the religious symbols? . . . and why the feather?
  Posted: 07/07/2024 15:51:14

Hi Peter,
You captured the evil in his eyes perfectly. I probably would not have approached this man since he looks more demonic than crazy. Nicely composed with sharp details. I would remove the feather in his hair. The story is in his eyes and sinister smile. Great job.   Posted: 07/07/2024 19:12:15

Peter--Unfortunately the feather doesn't read well at all and I would eliminate it. But, I think it's a very interesting portrait. I like the pyramid-shaped composition with his knees and hands at the bottom leading up to the very expressive face. I don't get a sense of demonic or evil; I see an interesting character who enjoys posing for photographs and probably thinks he's pretty photogenic - which he is. The cross necklaces add nice interest to the black tee shirt. I really like the balance between his face and his hands. I'm glad he's got the stubb of a roll-your-own between his fingers; perfect little detail. Nice work.   Posted: 07/21/2024 16:52:20

We just had a portrait contest in our local camera club. This image would have done well but I don't think it would have won. The winner had a very unusual and effective lighting plus shadow combination. the issue of the father is one of personal preference and I find it somewhat distracting even though the subject probably feels it give him a unique look.   Posted: 07/21/2024 22:54:14