Forums > Critique > Critique that won't quit.

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

So I see a lot of threads on here offering 'critique' or advice on what impression your profile leaves and I also see a lot of trolls, cruel people and OP's who seem to get bored. So as they say, can't beat them, join them.

So I would like to offer a honest critique, one where if I don't agree with your style you won't be insulted but your talent and work genuinely assessed.

I don't claim to have all of the technical knowledge but I know art when I see it. I spent my childhood in galleries and libraries enthralled with the magic that I could find, I danced at folk festivals, sung in massive show and studied fashion design for years until my sewing skills failed me. Now days I run a costume design business and an arts management company which my photography is a branch of. I also run many fetish events for women.

So if you would like a review/critique from the artistic side of this industry then post below. A simple post will get you a critique of your images but if you feel up to "liking" my facebook page www.facebook.com/EllaWilkesPhotography then I'll take a look at your whole profile.

I don't claim to know everything, this will be MY open and honest blunt opinion, others may not agree but that is fine by me. I will always do my best to get back to this thread even if it gets carried away and if I miss you please say so.

Have a lovely day smile

EDIT: yes I have fallen behind due to health issues but am doing what I can to catch up,if you have been missed I am truly sorry and please say so I will make you top of the list. I will also comment on pics of the ppl waiting so you know when I am done with yours.
Sorry again

Jan 31 14 01:24 pm Link

Photographer

Garry k

Posts: 30130

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Sure

I am curious to know what a photographer with your aesthetic preferences would think of my work

smile

though I don't claim that any thing I have shot is "art "

Jan 31 14 01:36 pm Link

Photographer

salvatori.

Posts: 4288

Amundsen-Scott - permanent station of the US, Unclaimed Sector, Antarctica

IMHO, a perfect opportunity. I just posted a bunch of pics that are VERY different for me (even started a critique thread that no one has answered yet, so I would welcome your thoughts...

Jan 31 14 01:44 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Garry k wrote:
Sure

I am curious to know what a photographer with your aesthetic preferences would think of my work

smile

though I don't claim that any thing I have shot is "art "

I really like the diversity in your port, yes you seem to have a fashion focus there are interesting twists, like here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/7766283 love the use of the water in this image but it is used in a very classy non sexual way, yet it is still incredibly sexy . You obviously have a good eye and skill for framing, especially evident here https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/33300199 <this image is beautiful cropped and the off center nature really is beautiful.

No art shots, I don't know, this is art in my opinion https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/12861332

You have a great diverse port and obviously know your own style, great work.

Jan 31 14 01:48 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

salvatori. wrote:
IMHO, a perfect opportunity. I just posted a bunch of pics that are VERY different for me (even started a critique thread that no one has answered yet, so I would welcome your thoughts...

I wish I could see more sad  I LOVE your avatar, amazing image, so much I have listed it, great model, awesome side lighting and the hat with her lovely curves, stunning! However that's all I can see, you take away from the beauty of this image by having so many that are almost the same. I can see you have skills but the effect is lost. I also have to admit the fan? Confused? It looks a little unorganized and I'm not sure how it works with your cute concept.

Thanks for posting smile

Jan 31 14 01:53 pm Link

Photographer

C R Newman Photography

Posts: 4

Brooksville, Florida, US

Hey, take a look if you have time smile

Jan 31 14 01:58 pm Link

Photographer

salvatori.

Posts: 4288

Amundsen-Scott - permanent station of the US, Unclaimed Sector, Antarctica

Ella Wilkes Photography wrote:

I wish I could see more sad  I LOVE your avatar, amazing image, so much I have listed it, great model, awesome side lighting and the hat with her lovely curves, stunning! However that's all I can see, you take away from the beauty of this image by having so many that are almost the same. I can see you have skills but the effect is lost. I also have to admit the fan? Confused? It looks a little unorganized and I'm not sure how it works with your cute concept.

Thanks for posting smile

Thanks for your thoughts. A bit of an explanation: I have always shot b/w and yesterday was my first dedicated color session in 20 years, hence all the pics from that one session.

I'm trying to develop a bit of a quirky editorial slant to the work, hence ideas like the fan, which I didn't know if it was good or not, but thought I would leave for others to see.

Thanks again!

Jim

Jan 31 14 01:59 pm Link

Model

May_Bee

Posts: 226

Basel, Basel-Town, Switzerland

please, do say what you think! smile
also I am not sure about two images, i like them, but many people don't, what do you think?
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/18596698
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/24660774

Jan 31 14 02:00 pm Link

Photographer

Eros Fine Art Photo

Posts: 3097

Torrance, California, US

Have at it.  I'm curious.

Jan 31 14 02:02 pm Link

Model

Meghan Noelle

Posts: 115

Houston, Texas, US

Me?

Jan 31 14 02:02 pm Link

Photographer

David Kirk

Posts: 4852

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Count me in.  I don't do facebook so I'll have to pass on that part.

Jan 31 14 02:08 pm Link

Photographer

Vic Rose

Posts: 18

London, England, United Kingdom

Im in!

Jan 31 14 02:16 pm Link

Model

HEATHER 19

Posts: 1156

Boston, Massachusetts, US

Sure smile

Jan 31 14 02:30 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

C R Newman Photography wrote:
Hey, take a look if you have time smile

Ok firstly, ditch the collage effect, it hurts my eyes wink seriously though it takes the power away from a certain image and it is rarely a format I like. It makes your images seem disposable, like you don't stand behind them enough to display them individually and it makes it hard to absorb the concept/model/story. The only one that kind of works is the wedding set because it is a similar colour pallet but when it's your whole port its confrontational to the veiwer and its a shame because hidden in this mash of many is some real beauties!

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/34997000 Individually these are stunning! Especially the blue lips! But having all four shots jammed into one frame taks that beauty down a little.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/34997424 I am not sure why these are put together? Also I really want to see every detail of that top right shot! that pose is the epitome of power!! That.needs to stand alone, it is stunning! Also the bottom shot is so beautiful it needs the moment to linger and not a distraction from it.

It is your port and your call of course but I would recommend throwing one or two solo strong Image's in there, your work is gorgeous and deserves its own spot.

Jan 31 14 02:47 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

May_Bee wrote:
please, do say what you think! smile
also I am not sure about two images, i like them, but many people don't, what do you think?
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/18596698
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/24660774

Ok, well firstly your port, let me say, beautiful. You are perfect for fashion and beauty. I really like your diversity and you have a stunning smile. I can also see you have great body control and awareness as seen here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/30097280 the point in your toe and the shape of your arms, lovely. Though I have to comment as kindly as I can that some poses make you look a little to slim, this is in no way accusing you of being unhealthy or anything so please let me repeat that point, its about posing, your body it beautiful I just know how people can perceive slimmer women. You have a classic elegant port with some gorgeous images.

Now onto those seperate images, let me highlight one point "I really like them" yay! That is the best place to start because at the end of the day it is your port and your work and you have to be the one to choose how you want to appear to the world. I personally like them, I do wish your eyes in the B&W one were in focus but that is not your fault and I think the darker one shows a sexier side of you and its a great image.

Your port is very lovely and you are a great model smile

Jan 31 14 03:08 pm Link

Photographer

Garage Photography

Posts: 273

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

I'm just hanging out, but I'm interested to hear your opinion.

Jan 31 14 03:17 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Eros Fine Art Photo wrote:
Have at it.  I'm curious.

Wow. Your avatar gives no hint of the wonders that lay in your port. You really have an eye for black and white composition, I ended up listing the inages I loved the most. But I admit it was hard to choose. Many people's ports I look at who have b&w focus have images that repeat techniques but yours doesn't give me that vibe, each image is individual and unique and your colour shots are equally as gorgeous. Wonderful portfolio!

Jan 31 14 04:46 pm Link

Photographer

x n y

Posts: 845

Miami, Florida, US

I'm down.

Jan 31 14 04:50 pm Link

Photographer

JIOPIX

Posts: 1183

Brighton, Ontario, Canada

I'd like to hear your opinion...

Jan 31 14 05:00 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Meghan Noelle wrote:
Me?

Oh hello, I remember you from my list thread, you have added some new very pretty things! smile
As I saod there you have a great look, you also have a beautiful natural smile, not forced and very genuine. Work maybe on pushing your posing a little harder, if it doesn't hurt your not pushing hard enough wink such as here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/34905128 your hip needs more pop and the way your knees are positioned with the skirt makes your legs look short, if you had pushed your back leg longer I think it would be perfect, though your face here is stunning and soft and I love your eyes. Pose in front of a mirror more and don't be afraid to push your posing to new places smile keep up the beautiful work, I wish you lived near me so I could try and capture those great eyes! smile

Jan 31 14 07:26 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

David Kirk wrote:
Count me in.  I don't do facebook so I'll have to pass on that part.

It is a great marketing tool so I treat it as such but thanks anyway.
You obviously have a very set style, a style which is very elegant and very beautiful. I think the shot I listed of yours is one of the most stunning head/beauty shots I have ever seen, it's very raw. I see you have great use if studio light, I do wish I could see a little more diversity, maybe something outdoor? But I understand that you may just want to stay in your style, experimenting can be good for the creative juices though smile
All in all you have a great port of strong images that I think hold a lot of strength in your lighting.

Jan 31 14 07:34 pm Link

Model

D A N I

Posts: 4627

Little Rock, Arkansas, US

Go ahead

Jan 31 14 07:37 pm Link

Photographer

Henry Westheim

Posts: 658

Taichung City, Taichung City, Taiwan

I'm in.  Thanks!  Cheers!

Jan 31 14 07:42 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Vic Rose wrote:
Im in!

Well for starter, very cool port! Diverse and there is some killer concepts. The black stripes, very cool! The doll bed is super creepy, but this! This image is so amazing it made two of my lists! https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/35055822 And as much as I like your avatar it is not as strong as some of your other works and it doesn't show how stunning your portfolio really is. Your work and creative edge is great.and quirky and its brilliant! smile

Jan 31 14 07:46 pm Link

Model

David E Simmons

Posts: 133

New York, New York, US

I would like some please

Jan 31 14 07:48 pm Link

Photographer

Garry k

Posts: 30130

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Ella Wilkes Photography wrote:

I really like the diversity in your port, yes you seem to have a fashion focus there are interesting twists, like here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/7766283 love the use of the water in this image but it is used in a very classy non sexual way, yet it is still incredibly sexy . You obviously have a good eye and skill for framing, especially evident here https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/33300199 <this image is beautiful cropped and the off center nature really is beautiful.

No art shots, I don't know, this is art in my opinion https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/12861332

You have a great diverse port and obviously know your own style, great work.

Thank You for your kind words

smile

Jan 31 14 07:48 pm Link

Photographer

Seismic Images

Posts: 525

Morisset, New South Wales, Australia

Go nuts smile

Jan 31 14 07:53 pm Link

Photographer

JAE

Posts: 2207

West Chester, Pennsylvania, US

I am interested smile

Jan 31 14 07:54 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

HEATHER 19 wrote:
Sure smile

Well don't you have the eyes! Beautiful features and you know how to use them. I see you have great body control and are aware of what each muscle is doing and it shows here https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/28291365 and in all of your shots. You are perfect for fashion with those legs! All in all your port is amazing and very impressive! I wish you heaps of luck with your modeling, your a natural.

Jan 31 14 07:56 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Garage Photography wrote:
I'm just hanging out, but I'm interested to hear your opinion.

Well here it is, Love your stuff! I have been to your port before and listed quite a few last time I was there, your port is so brilliant! You show how you can use indoor lighting setting as well as outdoor natural light well and its lovely to see. You have some pretty work as well as more thought provoking and creepier works. I am jealous if your moss rock location I must say! Also the body paint you captured is brilliant and the colours really pop! I can't find much to fault, I enjoy your photography.

Jan 31 14 08:14 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Don Marciano wrote:
I'm down.

From what you have I like your work, as I have said to others here, not a fan of the collage style, I like one image to be shown off and enjoyed. Your nudes are beautiful and the shadows of the trees is wonderful in B&W. You use the beach water in a unique way too smile Good luck with your work in the future.

Jan 31 14 08:21 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

JIOPIX wrote:
I'd like to hear your opinion...

Ok smile
I have been to your port before actually, I remember really loving some of your work. I think your use if the mannequin is fun a well executed, especially here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/32118817 great masks.
The blue tone in your waterfall shot is perfection. I love the framing there too, that set in fact is wonderful.
You have a cool mix of images and your baby bumb set is heart touching.
This image https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/33148248 is one of my all time favorite shots on here, it really inspires me, the tenderness, the tone, everything, it almost brings me to tears it's so tender. I also love the bondage set with this blonde model.
I would ditch the "Polaroid" frame, it takes away from  the high quality nature of your port, also here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/33148248 where you shooting a mannequin again? The retouching is way to over the top! She doesn't look human and with a crop that tight there needs to be skin tone hmm sorry but you wanted my opinion and that's not a pretty beauty shot.
All in all, love your style and you have some killer jems in there.

Jan 31 14 08:33 pm Link

Photographer

Tracy Zabriskie

Posts: 41

Los Angeles, California, US

Shoot

Jan 31 14 08:44 pm Link

Photographer

Fotografica Gregor

Posts: 4126

Alexandria, Virginia, US

well - I shoot for editorial publication and commercial print, and the last thing I think of myself is that I am an artist. I grew up in Europe decades ago, in the ruins of the second world war,  and if anything I am allergic to artistic pretensions....

all of that being said I would be happy for you to have a look and express your opinion

I will also happily like your page -  if you would like to see mine it is here

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fotograf … 8361460039

and seems to be successful enough, with over 32,000 followers.....

Cheers

Jan 31 14 08:47 pm Link

Photographer

Images by MR

Posts: 8908

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Shoot..

Jan 31 14 08:51 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Danielle Reid wrote:
Go ahead

Your hair colour!!! Wow! Love it! Really makes you stand out. You have glamor and sexy down and have mastered the pout. You have stunning curves and lovely eyes. Maybe try pushing your boundaries more, do something you have never done? You really have a great look and know how to use it! smile

Jan 31 14 09:03 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Henry Westheim wrote:
I'm in.  Thanks!  Cheers!

Cool collection of images! smile Your outdoor fashion work is beautiful! Perfect natural lighting, like here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/35095037 not to mention beautiful location and model.
You have some good indoor light shots, the one on.blue with the snoke, great spotlight effect!
I have to say though, here, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/14958419 the retouching is to heavy, she looks unreal and not in a good way sad also with this https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/17742266 pic one. Personally the top right is my pick, because when its collaged like this it confuses the eye and draws from the beauty.
All in all you have a steller portfolio.

Jan 31 14 09:10 pm Link

Photographer

Ella Wilkes Photography

Posts: 414

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

David E Simmons wrote:
I would like some please

Hello smile
Firstly, I'm glad you changed from the avatar you had when you first posted this, it is not nearly as strong as some of your other work, like this, https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/34671071 wow, beautiful shot!! Your expression and hand placement is gorgeous. I really like your look you have some good quality images and should keep working on it.

Jan 31 14 09:14 pm Link

Photographer

Scott Storm

Posts: 11

Springtown, Pennsylvania, US

Critique away~!

Thanks in advance...

Jan 31 14 09:17 pm Link

Model

D A N I

Posts: 4627

Little Rock, Arkansas, US

Ella Wilkes Photography wrote:

Your hair colour!!! Wow! Love it! Really makes you stand out. You have glamor and sexy down and have mastered the pout. You have stunning curves and lovely eyes. Maybe try pushing your boundaries more, do something you have never done? You really have a great look and know how to use it! smile

Wow thanks!

Jan 31 14 09:17 pm Link