remi wrote:
Nice Meyer. Would you give my profile a review?

Sure, First, you have a nice warm smile and humble relaxed look about you and seem easy going and pleasant.  You have very nice teeth and pretty eyes, you are slim and all of those things are great.

Second, to no fault of your own the photographers have taken some 'basic' shots of you, which are helpful, and I like natural outdoor locations and they seem to suit you.  I like that you have some photos that are in this category, no makeup, and simple. Thats great.

Ok, here's the stuff you can work on.  I would find someone to do your makeup, maybe a friend, or you can do your own for the next shoot, in India I imagine there are incredible locations beyond a local park that may look interesting. If I was going to shoot you in your natural environment I would love to see you in a fancy nightgown or dress in the humble local surroundings of a market or store, like a diamond in the rough kind of thing.

So in summary, you have done a great job showing your 'natural beauty' but I would also include taking some risks and getting really dressed up and putting on makeup and doing your hair and going "all out".

Lastly I notice your posture could use some work as well as how you place your hands, in the beginning I think its very important to "copy" models photos or poses that you like, pros do it all the time, you don't have to invent the wheel or revolutionize the industry with new poses, just find ones that you like other models doing and try them out, memorize a few basic 'go to ' poses.

Best of Luck !

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
Sure, thanks! Following on IG.

HI Jorge ! I'm pretty sure I've seen your profile while looking at other Model's profiles on here. Great to see you still shooting and you are a veteran for sure !


There are two things that I love in your port. One, when you capture that carnal sexual energy just right, it happens a few times in there and it's bold and exciting. Engery=Great. So many photographers have such a cloudy sense of what mood they are going for, so I like that yours is quite often very clear. The second thing is you have nice taste when you do shoot with clothes, and to be honest, I kind of like that style dare I say, slightly better, or at least I think it seems like it comes easy to you.

<img src='https://photos.modelmayhem.com/photos/121201/07/50ba210a11e16.jpg' />

This photo for example. Well done.

As far as negative or constructive feedback, I think it is more a matter of quantity over quality, and I can tell you know what youre doing so take this with a grain of salt, but you could easily lose 50% of the photos you have up, or even more and 'specialize' more.  Remember when you first got your first camera? I do, I would take photos of everything, flowers, shoes, people, clouds, but obviously the better you get and Im sure you know, it's better to be great at that 'one thing', and while it seems like you are doing that for the most part, I would lose any of those photos that don't 'scream' that ENERGY that I can feel in your other photos.  You may keep a folder with some of the 'clothed' models to show your skill in that area, for which are good, good enough presumably to do only that if you so chose, but nevertheless it seems your passion is with the electric type of energy that permeates.

Lastly if I were to really nit pick I think the editing in terms of the red lines or blurred areas or any photo with really obvious photoshop or photo editing I prefer much less than your less edited or no obvious editing type of photos.  As a sole means to hide nipples or nudity I think there may be less invasive methods, the large red lines almost become the subject of the photo, and hopefully not on purpose.

Anyway Great port ! Lovely Images and Models, great technique with lighting and camera and great, clear themes and energy, just perhaps too many photos to get your point across.

And Thank you !!

Paul Tirado Photography wrote:
Ok if you could take a look. I do need to update on here a little bit. I followed you on instagram.

Thanks for having a look and you're photography is quite good, and im sure you are aware already.
The good: you know how to shoot and you know camera technique/ lighting and general craft quite well.  You seem pretty comfortable with your skills as far as editing also.

My only feedback and you are welcome to disregard as you see fit, but I do notice a few things. One is, the amount of editing could be toned down quite a bit, I am guilty of this in my work as well, sometimes it feels so fun to transform things further to get it just perfect, but it can be dangerous and detract from elements that make it more human.  Secondly, it is quite safe. And there is nothing wrong with that, but those two things might be something you may want to consider. If you looked at your favorite photographer what things come to mind? If someone looks at your work what would come to their mind?

Lovely portfolio overall, and my critique I had to try to find things to help because you obviously have great skills.
Lastly : The type of models seem more 'pretty' or in a traditional sense 'beautiful' or gorgeous than they have the look of Agency models , meaning ... its important to update your firmware and software on your phone as it is to update your ideas for what is beautiful, and you might consider branching out in to more "unusual" looking models to evoke your more artistic sides.

Thanks so much !

Ted

Prime Shot Photography wrote:
Me please!

Hi, thanks for offering yourself up for a critique, but Im going to warn you, you may not like what I am about to say, but I truly want to say what is simply my opinion in a way that may help you be the best you can be, and I think there is much you can improve.
Camera Basics are ok, the subject is clearly the subject and the backgrounds are not distracting for the most part and flow well. The lighting is ok, not particularly great, but decent enough and the model's faces have light on them and it looks for the most part flattering. So those are the good things, and they are good things. You know how to shoot. Lots of people don't. The crops also are 'normal' looking and don't strike me as extreme beginner-ish. So you are a quick learner or have been shooting a while and just got an account here, I'm not sure.

Ok the stuff I would fix. No folders named after girls. Its mildly off putting. Its like Im one of your ex's framed on the wall of fame or something. I completely understand you are just, in your way, showing them you care and it's a thoughtful gesture in theory, but not on here. It could too easily be misread by someone as creepy, which im sure is not how you meant it.
Next, the editing while 'standard' in 2009 for beginners, this type of 'white sclera' to the eyes and 'glowing' light has a dated feel, in the same way that models hugging the trees or those kinds of poses yell out high school yearbook 1993.
Im not saying those things are bad, but they may not get you the most opportunity to take your photography to the next level, and I know since you replied you are considering doing just that.
Lastly how you shoot the models and what powerful images you are missing out on.  There are photos of a very beautiful girl in a Red Dress with curves and she looks great, but I feel like that dress, those poses and the location detract from what another photographer could do in another type of shoot. Just as an example: That model might look great in a bikini or shorts and heels in an urban setting, kinda of 'glam meets the street' sexy but powerful. Where there is some element of 'wow', some energy, some fun.  Shooting her in that yearbook style is dated and so is the editing, I know that sounds harsh, but if I sugar coat it, it's not going to make any impression on you.

There is no right or wrong way to shoot, and you know how to work a camera, but I would focus on updating the 'style' and approach to something current and hip and something that models want to put in their portfolio and show off to their friends, where they look incredible and the images are bold and exciting. If im wrong let me know, but I think you could easily make this transition and it won't cost a dime.

Thanks so much for participating !
Have a great afternoon !

Ted

sospix wrote:
Blast away Mr. M  .  .  .    I'd follow you on IG, but "they" won't let me on there  .  .  .  course, I'm old as dirt, so that may have sumethin' ta do with it  .  .  . 

SOS

Haha, no worries. Surfer girls huh? I can almost hear the beach boys, ok don't get me started. I loved your profile pic then when I opened your profile it was like watching someone crash and burn on a gnarly wave. Dude, my man. What is up with those funky angles? I can tell right away you have a cool personality and style, lots of people dont have that part, but the editing looks weird like the photos have been microwaved slightly then have these harsh sharpening clarity lines to try to clean them up.
I want to rewind the shots to see the model in a less contrived natural state, and look into their souls, who they are, not who you are, and no offense at all, but its too much you and not enough them.
As an example try shots of only their face close up, focusing on their eyes, or option number two: from their waist up , half body basically. both holding the camera vertically and no angles above or below. Just head on. Maybe with a 50mm. 1.4 F. Try it if you can and you'll see the difference.

Of course there is a huge chance that you will read this and say to yourself.. What does he know? Im doing everythign fine and Im not listenign to him, and thats totally ok, but if you are willing to take what I say into account, I know one thing for sure will happen, the people that you take photos of will notice an improvement and thank you and may even pay you, and not just anyone pay you but truly special and beautiful people.

Anyway, Thanks so much.

Ted

Also: I cannot tell for sure, but if you havent updated your camera in a long time I would consider getting something new and with a 50mm 1.4 . Photography is not like composing a shot for a painting to hang on the wall at grandma's house which is what yours feel like slightly.

Garry k wrote:
Just started following you on IG ( where I am new as well )

My portfolio here provides a record of my development as a photographer over the past decade

My more recent work is on my Bio page and linked website

Thanks Garry, I really enjoyed looking through your photos, I see some variety and you know to shoot and have an eye for how to make things work on a shoot, I can see the experience through your photos, no doubt about that. Great lighting, great angles and crops, very professional looking, not all the models are world class, and the umbrella one while fun, and the hair care one are ok, but there is one photo Garry where if it was the only photo you had in your portfolio I would put you in another category far far far far from the other photos and I have to wonder why , if you can shoot like this , dont you do it all the time. It's like if beethoven just started writing rap tunes instead of his 5th symphony, nothing against either obviously, but Garry !
Tessa, 2016, She's wearing a one peice , its so simple , the lighting is so natural and its not contrived, it still has a great mood, and its just amazing, then I look at the rest of the stuff and I want to tell you. PLease shoot more just like that, lose the variety, and that one thing can be your style and it would be a very cool one.

Great stuff,

Thanks

Ted

M E Y E R wrote:

Thanks Garry, I really enjoyed looking through your photos, I see some variety and you know to shoot and have an eye for how to make things work on a shoot, I can see the experience through your photos, no doubt about that. Great lighting, great angles and crops, very professional looking, not all the models are world class, and the umbrella one while fun, and the hair care one are ok, but there is one photo Garry where if it was the only photo you had in your portfolio I would put you in another category far far far far from the other photos and I have to wonder why , if you can shoot like this , dont you do it all the time. It's like if beethoven just started writing rap tunes instead of his 5th symphony, nothing against either obviously, but Garry !
Tessa, 2016, She's wearing a one peice , its so simple , the lighting is so natural and its not contrived, it still has a great mood, and its just amazing, then I look at the rest of the stuff and I want to tell you. PLease shoot more just like that, lose the variety, and that one thing can be your style and it would be a very cool one.

Great stuff,

Thanks

Ted

Thank You .... I like those shots of Tessa as well

We had some good outdoor light that day ....overcast but bright  . I feel that if I lived in warmer climate I would be able to do more of this simple style of shoot.- Which essentially was a Model ( who did her own hair and makeup) wearing a One Piece ( that I had bought at Forever 21 for twenty bucks) standing in front of the wall of a building

M E Y E R wrote:
I will be honest first, and do my best to offer CONSTRUCTIVE advice but not at the expense of being HONEST. Meaning, My goal is to offer helpful constructive advice however it may sting a little or not be exactly what you want to hear, but if you keep an open mind my perspective may open some new directions and opportunities that can help you acheive your goals, whatever they may be.
....

sOOO.. speaking of honest... here's some constructive honesty for You.

I popped over to your instagram, for potentially giving you a follow.. but then decided thats not going to happen, because I really dont want my family looking over my shoulder and asking me,
"hey Dad.. how come your feed is full of jailbait in swimsuits?" :-}

or worse yet.. noticing.. and NOT asking me :-p

phantom of the light wrote:
constructive and honest...I'll go for that!

Thanks for putting yourself out there, and keeping an open mind.

Let me start with what I like. I enjoyed reading the quotes on your page before diving into your profile and I feel right away a person with a deep history and perhaps sentiment who enjoys art and beauty. Thoughtful.  When I look through your port and your photos I want to like them, and there are things that are ok, Models are in focus and thought has been put into the backgrounds in a way that isnt aweful, the wardrobe and style is ok, but the things I like are only mildly 'mediocre' at best and they are far overshadowed by what I feel is holding you back as an artist producing above average or great images.

First, Subject and Background.  One of the biggest things that will help you right away is to photograph someone in a way that they are no doubt the subject, and there is no confusion at all. Some people use lenses that blur the background, or use a white wall, or the subject is so strong that your eyes don't look anywhere else, but I feel in your photos the backgrounds are either equally focused as the subject, or just distracting. Model vs tree for instance. I found myself looking into the sand in one photo and into the pretty grooves of bark in another, which leads me to the second thing,  which is the models.
Second Models. Ok this is a 'hot topic' and of course beauty is very subjective, and one man's trash___ insert quote here. You get the idea. Photographing models, is like photographing anything else where there is a subject and background. Sunsets, Cats, Flowers, Cars.  Have you ever seen a really average sunset that was a complete dud? Like it just wasnt good at all. There were no clouds or too many clouds and it just wasnt interesting at all to look at? And have you seen a sunset that was so profoundly beautiful it made you feel how truly special each moment on earth is?  Finding models is like finding the best subject for your photos, and its not to say there is not beauty in all things, there is , but.... I highly advise finding models that anyone would look at and they would feel the way they do when you watch a great sunset or thing of beauty. 
Lastly I have a minor issue looking at photos with 'bad crops' and other things that might be labeled as 'poor compositional elements' I know this sounds harsh or something but everyone is a photographer now, and what that means is, you have to really pay more attention to detail, because there are literrally hundreds of thousands of incredible photographers taking amazing images and working really hard making sure their lighting, and composition look great.
In summary I feel that you are as a person probably a very interesting and exceptional person as an individual but it is being held back by ignoring certain photographic elements such as careful choice of subject, exceptionally interesting light, simple background, style or feel or mood, and finally gorgeous compositional elements.

Thanks for your interest and I hope some of these things help,
It was a pleasure.

Ted

M E Y E R wrote:
Haha, no worries. Surfer girls huh? I can almost hear the beach boys, ok don't get me started. I loved your profile pic then when I opened your profile it was like watching someone crash and burn on a gnarly wave. Dude, my man. What is up with those funky angles? I can tell right away you have a cool personality and style, lots of people dont have that part, but the editing looks weird like the photos have been microwaved slightly then have these harsh sharpening clarity lines to try to clean them up.
I want to rewind the shots to see the model in a less contrived natural state, and look into their souls, who they are, not who you are, and no offense at all, but its too much you and not enough them.
As an example try shots of only their face close up, focusing on their eyes, or option number two: from their waist up , half body basically. both holding the camera vertically and no angles above or below. Just head on. Maybe with a 50mm. 1.4 F. Try it if you can and you'll see the difference.

Of course there is a huge chance that you will read this and say to yourself.. What does he know? Im doing everythign fine and Im not listenign to him, and thats totally ok, but if you are willing to take what I say into account, I know one thing for sure will happen, the people that you take photos of will notice an improvement and thank you and may even pay you, and not just anyone pay you but truly special and beautiful people.

Anyway, Thanks so much.

Ted

Also: I cannot tell for sure, but if you havent updated your camera in a long time I would consider getting something new and with a 50mm 1.4 . Photography is not like composing a shot for a painting to hang on the wall at grandma's house which is what yours feel like slightly.

Thanks for the look and the crit Mr. T  .  .  .  most of what I have up (well, really all) are just concept images, the majority of my work now is for commercial clients (a lot of surf, sk8, motorhead and the like) that have something pretty specific in mind, so "angles and overdone" are usually the words of the day when shooting for them  .  .  .  sometimes the models almost become secondary to the look, and energy they want the images (as opposed to photographs) to portray  .  .  .  I see what you're saying about softening the look (back in the Stone Age, I used to shoot fashion in NYC, and the style and feel was completely different if you were shooting catalog, look book, print ad and the like, plus using film kind of dictated what was possible), and how that would really bring up the personality of the models themselves, and give an overall more fashion esthetic to the image, but almost everything I do now is for high impact ads, on line content and posters, most of the video I produce has the same feel based on the client's needs and wants  .  .  .  I usually just post what grabs me visually, I guess posting some softer stuff as well may be in order  .  .  .  as to my equipment, my go to is a D750, although I do occasionally shoot with a D4s depending on what I'm after as a finished product (usually determined by the end use needs), and a trusty 50mm 1.8 is always handy, but, I'll admit I'm kinda lazy and usually just shoot comp stuff with 24-120 4 Nikon, or a 24-135 3.5-5.6 Tamaron (I use this for most of the beach stuff, jest in case I end up gettin' wet  .  .  .  ), very little of what I do now really calls for much bokeh, so I tend not to use anything with too short a focal length, that's a good catch though, not too many people would pick up on that  .  .  .  again, thanks for the look, and the in depth crit, always appreciate hearing what others are seeing  .  .  .  much continued success!

SOS

TDSImages wrote:
Me please?

Hi, thanks.

First, looking over your about me section and into your port you have some very clear skill of photographic technique, composition, lighting, ect that cooincidentally I felt the last critique perhaps was lacking, so those things are on point.
Nothing to critique there. Great job ! It takes time and effort to get that good at a skill, well done. You have an unofficial degree in "I can take great photos", but the next step is what Im going to critique, but I probably wont spend quite as much time because you basically said in your about me section that you are just doing what you want and dont really want to change and dont much care to listen to anyone but yourself. Dont beleive me? Read what you wrote.

"When looking at my port here on MM, I've been told that my images are all over the place which is exactly right.  I'm not interested in just producing a certain type of photograph or look, but rather, shooting a lot of different things as there is so much that interests me.  That's one of the good things of not having to make a living with my camera...I can shoot what I want. "

You rebel you. Look, there is nothing wrong with that. Your not here to please anyone, the only boudaries in art are the ones you make, but just being stubborn isnt the same thing. Nor is being humble and open a negative.

Not having to make a living with your camera is great, but I would pretty much bet that if you HAD to make money with your camera, I mean HAD to, that the first thing you would do in order to survive is the opposite of what your doing, you would specialize in a specific niche, you would produce images that fit a certain standard of beauty and you would create your own style doing so because you needed money for food and shelter. Now let me rewind a second before a possible freakout, I get it, your doing this for fun and it IS fun, and there is a certain purity in that approach, but I would be weary of how its affecting your actual work.

A great example is say a restaurant that sells BBQ, people go there because they specialize in BBQ, and they are open and in business because people think their BBQ is above average. Now Imagine if the owner didnt need any money and just wanted to cook a bunch of random stuff that he thought was fun to cook, like Sushi with Bananas, and Meat pies with apples and Chocolate Shrimp, those are super fun right? BBQ is so boring cause it pays the bills.  To me that's what your portfolio is saying, that you are basically choosing to be an amatuer because its more fun than taking it seriously.

Thats the harsh reality and difference between an amatuer and a pro. Now you can still do it for fun and be serious about it, lots of MM photographers can shoot amazingly well and given the chance could easily excell with the right connections and attitude, and do take their work seriously.

Of course there is a balance somewhere in the middle where you still have fun and take it seriously as a professional needing to survive would, but I think its pretty obvious which one would create better images and even more obvious which one would help you improve if you so desire.

Thanks so much

Ted

sospix wrote:

Thanks for the look and the crit Mr. T  .  .  .  most of what I have up (well, really all) are just concept images, the majority of my work now is for commercial clients (a lot of surf, sk8, motorhead and the like) that have something pretty specific in mind, so "angles and overdone" are usually the words of the day when shooting for them  .  .  .  sometimes the models almost become secondary to the look, and energy they want the images (as opposed to photographs) to portray  .  .  .  I see what you're saying about softening the look (back in the Stone Age, I used to shoot fashion in NYC, and the style and feel was completely different if you were shooting catalog, look book, print ad and the like, plus using film kind of dictated what was possible), and how that would really bring up the personality of the models themselves, and give an overall more fashion esthetic to the image, but almost everything I do now is for high impact ads, on line content and posters, most of the video I produce has the same feel based on the client's needs and wants  .  .  .  I usually just post what grabs me visually, I guess posting some softer stuff as well may be in order  .  .  .  as to my equipment, my go to is a D750, although I do occasionally shoot with a D4s depending on what I'm after as a finished product (usually determined by the end use needs), and a trusty 50mm 1.8 is always handy, but, I'll admit I'm kinda lazy and usually just shoot comp stuff with 24-120 4 Nikon, or a 24-135 3.5-5.6 Tamaron (I use this for most of the beach stuff, jest in case I end up gettin' wet  .  .  .  ), very little of what I do now really calls for much bokeh, so I tend not to use anything with to short a focal length, that's a good catch though, not too many people would pick up on that  .  .  .  again, thanks for the look, and the in depth crit, always appreciate hearing what others are seeing  .  .  .  much continued success!

SOS

Thanks for the feedback and I didnt know that, and that makes a lot of sense now that I have some more perspective.  Just one man's thoughts, have an awesome day and thanks for participating and keeping an open mind.

roger alan wrote:
M E Y E R you're doing a great job with these critiques. But I am not seeking a critique, so please do not bother. (And I am not on IG)

I rarely thread jack...but am making an exception to show props to Paul Tirado who posted earlier in this thread. Mr Tirado and I are not acquainted or affiliated in any way. But I have been aware of one of his images and have had it listed for a while. IMO it is one of the finest images I have seen on MM or elsewhere:

its all good, nothing wrong with sharing your admiration for a fellow member of the craft. That is a great image. What makes it great to you? And how can you apply that to your own photography? Since you don't want a critique, might be fun to consider these questions.

And thanks for comment regarding my critiquing ! Best

Ted

Philip Brown wrote:

sOOO.. speaking of honest... here's some constructive honesty for You.

I popped over to your instagram, for potentially giving you a follow.. but then decided thats not going to happen, because I really dont want my family looking over my shoulder and asking me,
"hey Dad.. how come your feed is full of jailbait in swimsuits?" :-}

or worse yet.. noticing.. and NOT asking me :-p

Haha, I like the challenge of testing for agencies and I can't help that some of the models are younger than me, or that the ideal of beauty happens to be under 90. I will try to shoot more nuns, ooops that wont work either, your family might think something else, ok I will try to shoot more grandma's , damnit that wont work either. Either way I appreciate the unsolicited advice, everyone loves when people offer unsolicited advice, great way to win friends. I kid, I kid, but let me know when youre ready for some feedback, I would be more than happy to help,

Sincerely,

Ted

M E Y E R wrote:
Either way I appreciate the unsolicited advice, everyone loves when people offer unsolicited advice, great way to win friends. I kid, I kid, but let me know when youre ready for some feedback, I would be more than happy to help,

Sincerely,

Ted

Good humor always appreciated
I'd ask for suggestions on my IG feed. but someone literally just hacked my account or something (within the last 2 hours) and managed to wipe most of my photos.
So much for that idea.

Philip Brown wrote:

Good humor always appreciated
I'd ask for suggestions on my IG feed. but someone literally just hacked my account or something (within the last 2 hours) and managed to wipe most of my photos.
So much for that idea.

Sorry to hear that and I actually considered your feedback and made some adjustments to my IG so it didnt come off the way you described, certainly not my intention. Anyway, Thanks Philip.

M E Y E R wrote:

Thanks for putting yourself out there, and keeping an open mind.

Let me start with what I like. I enjoyed reading the quotes on your page before diving into your profile and I feel right away a person with a deep history and perhaps sentiment who enjoys art and beauty. Thoughtful.  When I look through your port and your photos I want to like them, and there are things that are ok, Models are in focus and thought has been put into the backgrounds in a way that isnt aweful, the wardrobe and style is ok, but the things I like are only mildly 'mediocre' at best and they are far overshadowed by what I feel is holding you back as an artist producing above average or great images.

First, Subject and Background.  One of the biggest things that will help you right away is to photograph someone in a way that they are no doubt the subject, and there is no confusion at all. Some people use lenses that blur the background, or use a white wall, or the subject is so strong that your eyes don't look anywhere else, but I feel in your photos the backgrounds are either equally focused as the subject, or just distracting. Model vs tree for instance. I found myself looking into the sand in one photo and into the pretty grooves of bark in another, which leads me to the second thing,  which is the models.
Second Models. Ok this is a 'hot topic' and of course beauty is very subjective, and one man's trash___ insert quote here. You get the idea. Photographing models, is like photographing anything else where there is a subject and background. Sunsets, Cats, Flowers, Cars.  Have you ever seen a really average sunset that was a complete dud? Like it just wasnt good at all. There were no clouds or too many clouds and it just wasnt interesting at all to look at? And have you seen a sunset that was so profoundly beautiful it made you feel how truly special each moment on earth is?  Finding models is like finding the best subject for your photos, and its not to say there is not beauty in all things, there is , but.... I highly advise finding models that anyone would look at and they would feel the way they do when you watch a great sunset or thing of beauty. 
Lastly I have a minor issue looking at photos with 'bad crops' and other things that might be labeled as 'poor compositional elements' I know this sounds harsh or something but everyone is a photographer now, and what that means is, you have to really pay more attention to detail, because there are literrally hundreds of thousands of incredible photographers taking amazing images and working really hard making sure their lighting, and composition look great.
In summary I feel that you are as a person probably a very interesting and exceptional person as an individual but it is being held back by ignoring certain photographic elements such as careful choice of subject, exceptionally interesting light, simple background, style or feel or mood, and finally gorgeous compositional elements.

Thanks for your interest and I hope some of these things help,
It was a pleasure.

Ted

Like so many others, I'm in it for the challenge.  Thank you for the critique and some interesting points.  I appreciate the time you spent, and the suggestions.

M E Y E R wrote:
let me know when youre ready for some feedback, I would be more than happy to help,

Sincerely,

Ted

Thanks.
I think i'm ready to hear about the one area I need to most improve in, please

calysta_bates wrote:
Okay, lets see what kind of back bone I have, lol im just kidding. but please be as constructive as you have time for, I don't really hear much even when i ask for the critiques. I just followed you on IG (:

Hi Thanks. As constructive as I have time for, haha I like that. Not sure why you wouldn't hear much, but I think I understand.


I love your about me section, I see how seriously you take this craft and how meaningful it is to you, how rewarding it is and the people you have worked with say wonderful things, and it's truly a pleasure to read things like that when considering a model to work with. Also you are very direct in communicating tattoos ect and just overall seems very good, probably one of the best I've seen. TBH.

As I open your portfolio I have mixed feelings. Try not to stop listening just yet though, I think I can help.  I have mixed feelings in the same way say you are watching a cooking show, and the contestants have to make great dish in 30 mins using the following ingredients, now imagine one of those contestants is one you are rooting for, and he gets this perfect set of ingredients, and still somehow it just doesnt come out right. Ok that was probably a terrible example, but bear with me. You seem like an amazing model. You look great, you have a great body, you are comfortable with your body, you know how to pose, have a great smile, warm attitude that shines through the photos, sexy, everything just like this great box of wonderful ingredients that a photographer must use to create a great image, but most of the time they seem to mess it up.  I am probably pretty sure if you have taken part in these critiques before, and if so you have read things or heard things like, "the model is great and the photographers you work with are terrible", well I have to say in your case I feel strongly that is whats going on. Now thats not to say you dont have some great images, you do, but they are 'against all odds' and despite working with in my humble opinion lesser skilled photographers and therefore your images could be much better.

A photographers job is to paint with light the subject in a way that brings out the best in them and convey some mood or emotion or energy that makes a person feel something profound. You are doing your part but the photographers you have worked with in my admittedly not so humble sounding opinion are not paying any attention to these elements and overall your port could be a lot better by fixing this if you so desire.

The great news is , this is so easy to fix. Many models I have critiqued its exactly the opposite where they are born they way they were , whatever that is, and are working with world class photographers but they just are not very wonderful or interesting to look at by the sheer chance of fate, you seem to have this great look but dont' seem to be as careful choosing really high quality photographers for whatever reason.

It could be not financially sensible, meaning lesser photographers may approach you more often for paid shoots, and I get that, same for photographers, Models who make 1 million per year arent calling me to shoot and pay me, but imagine if I or another photographer wasnt picky about models ? I mean at all, it would make it really challenging to 'get off the ground' so to speak and really have a portfolio that people would see any skill at all.

One of the most important skills a model can have is picking , very carefully a photographer who takes great photos. Now maybe you can still shoot with whoever because its fun and I get that, I do that too, but the second most important skill is only showing your best work. Put those two things together and I think that is something quite practical and easy to fix if you were interested.

It was a pleasure writing this ,

I hope some of the points I made ring true

Thanks

Ted

Philip Brown wrote:

Thanks.
I think i'm ready to hear about the one area I need to most improve in, please

Hi Philip thanks. I may not be able to fit my critique eloquently in one statement regarding the area you most need to improve, there are a few things that tie together though and I think you may find them helpful.

Basic camera skills- Check. Not a problem there. Models are in focus, lighting is acceptable, outdoor locations are ok. Check check check.

Things that stand out to me as areas you could consider. First- your about me section. This is what it says:
"I like to bring out positive energy in my subject. I prefer models with life and dynamism, over blocks of wood."

As I read this, especially if I were a model I am thinking a few things. The Main one is - it seems like other models have 'clammed up' in front of this guy, I hope he is professional to work with because I too may be come a block of wood in front of certain types of people in certain circumstances.  You preceed this comment however by stating that its your job, which is good, but its almost like telling someone "NO offense, but..." and then saying something offensive.

I know I dont know you, but over the few comments weve shared you seem like a great guy, so I would rework your about me section to something positive and not at all putting pressure on a model to behave a certain way despite natural instincs to the contrary. Models when comfortable will do pretty much well, in my opinion whatever they feel comfortable with without any need or promt to be less like a block of wood ect. I digress, you get the point. Moving on.

Your portfolio has a 'dated' feel, the way the subjects are 'being posed' or posing looks extremely contrived, meaning it looks set up like a 80's photo studio brought to the park. Nothing wrong with parks or the 80's, but there is a mild feeling of the dreaded high school yearbook style here that is very common but all too easy to fix. Look at some 'modern' photographers that you admire and compare the differences, objectively.  How focused are their backgrounds? How are the photos cropped? Do the models look setup in contrived poses or natural?  Are the photos being taken in the best possible light to create a specific mood or feeling?  I know he may not be your favorite photographer, nor mine, but google just for fun "Jaime Ibarra" photographer, maybe not as professional as some, but imagine you were a model and you had to choose to work with you or him and what elemets you see. Storytelling quality about the light, model, simple backgrounds or whatever you come up with.

Lastly I have a minor pet peve about photographers using their folders sections to name them after the Girl's name or anything that sounds too personal. "A sunny day with Blair" for example.  To use your example, if my family were looking over my shoulder as i read a book called "A Sunny Day with Blair" they might be curious.  I can tell by my photographers intuition and from how we spoke breifly you seem like a very professional and warm person but I think especially on sites like this one that you don't want to portray yourself in any way that can be confused with anything other than absolute pro.
I know you didnt start the trend, but I do know that it may be somethign worth considering.

Thanks so much Philip, I have an uncle PHilip by the way and also my brother's middle name.

Feel free to reach out anytime,

Thanks

Ted

M E Y E R wrote:

Hi, thanks for offering yourself up for a critique, but Im going to warn you, you may not like what I am about to say, but I truly want to say what is simply my opinion in a way that may help you be the best you can be, and I think there is much you can improve.
Camera Basics are ok, the subject is clearly the subject and the backgrounds are not distracting for the most part and flow well. The lighting is ok, not particularly great, but decent enough and the model's faces have light on them and it looks for the most part flattering. So those are the good things, and they are good things. You know how to shoot. Lots of people don't. The crops also are 'normal' looking and don't strike me as extreme beginner-ish. So you are a quick learner or have been shooting a while and just got an account here, I'm not sure.

Ok the stuff I would fix. No folders named after girls. Its mildly off putting. Its like Im one of your ex's framed on the wall of fame or something. I completely understand you are just, in your way, showing them you care and it's a thoughtful gesture in theory, but not on here. It could too easily be misread by someone as creepy, which im sure is not how you meant it.
Next, the editing while 'standard' in 2009 for beginners, this type of 'white sclera' to the eyes and 'glowing' light has a dated feel, in the same way that models hugging the trees or those kinds of poses yell out high school yearbook 1993.
Im not saying those things are bad, but they may not get you the most opportunity to take your photography to the next level, and I know since you replied you are considering doing just that.
Lastly how you shoot the models and what powerful images you are missing out on.  There are photos of a very beautiful girl in a Red Dress with curves and she looks great, but I feel like that dress, those poses and the location detract from what another photographer could do in another type of shoot. Just as an example: That model might look great in a bikini or shorts and heels in an urban setting, kinda of 'glam meets the street' sexy but powerful. Where there is some element of 'wow', some energy, some fun.  Shooting her in that yearbook style is dated and so is the editing, I know that sounds harsh, but if I sugar coat it, it's not going to make any impression on you.

There is no right or wrong way to shoot, and you know how to work a camera, but I would focus on updating the 'style' and approach to something current and hip and something that models want to put in their portfolio and show off to their friends, where they look incredible and the images are bold and exciting. If im wrong let me know, but I think you could easily make this transition and it won't cost a dime.

Thanks so much for participating !
Have a great afternoon !

Ted

Great feedback, Thank you!

Pauline Yee wrote:
Me please !

Hi Pauline , thanks for allowing me the opportunity, I know its not easy to put yourself out there for these kinds of things.

First off I like your about me section is lighthearted for the most part and fun and I get a sense of who you are and I like the avatar image, and as I open your portfolio I see a lot of variety, which is good, you have a great body, are physically fit, have an interesting or exotic look that I can't quite figure out if you are Asian or mixed if your last name Lee is Chinese or a married name, so very interesting. Also you have a mix of some masculine and feminine features which is very interesting to photograph and such a great thing for models to have.  I looked at your website also to try to get a sense of things and like how your website is organized with folders for editorial , ect.

My favorite shots of you in your portfolio are mainly taken from two photographers, Philip Ritchie and Sleepymongrol, also the Troy Young photo on the fire escape is interesting but I cannot completely tell if your expression is sad or comtemplatively profound, its a good photo nevertheless. Before I get into the critique again I want to highlight what strikes me as strong areas. In the photos that I like the most it's because they look a little bit, dare I say, sexy. Ok I said it. Please dont' black belt me.  I am hoping that you sense that I mean that word in its most respectful and dignified way.

Ok, here comes the critique part. And it's not easy, there is a lot to like, but right away, there just seems to be too much variety. I know it seems necessary to show all that you can do, but the models that I've worked with who've booked huge jobs have a book that have 1-2 things that they are great at and thats all. There is a model in my port in front of the American Flag that has this great "Americana" just thing going on, its like you just hear Tom Petty and feel that Summer feeling of youth or whatever, anyway, coca cola also saw that exact same thing and a few other big companies that she did commercials for where she gets checks every month for quite a lot of money, ok I digress. Point is she could have had a portfolio that had tons of variety, but she didnt, it had a really singular feel about it, it screamed one thing.  I know as a general rule you should have variety as a model, and I agree, but there should be 1-2 strong things and a few random stock 'beauty' shots are nice but you get the idea. Step one, simplify into one or two strong looks that work for you.  When I look through your port I feel the strongest looks are the Artistic/Glamour/Sexy shots or kind of Fitness lifestyle like your avatar surf feeling photo.



If you are comfortable with it, I would think that the Artistic/Glamour/Sexy kind of shots lean toward some nudity or implied nudity, now Im not suggesting anyone do anything they are not comfortable with, and I realize we are all human beings first and photographers and models second, have families, children, carreers;  but as I look through your photos and especially from that one photographer Phillip Ritchie, as I look inside his portfolio its filled with great , powerful, sexy photos and if you are comfortable working with him, I think your portfolio would benefit greatly from deleting lots of photos and filling it with ones from that photographer that are , how do I say ...  sexy as comfortable as you can be without feeling uncomfortable, whether than means posing or nudity or not that is a very personal and private thing. In Fact this is such  personal and sensitive subject and goes to the root of who we are, and I hope that somehow the gravity and weight and seriousness of this sentiment still carries as you read this, but a part of me can't help but think how great your portfolio would look if it that element was a little stronger, obviously depending on your comfort level.

Anyway, you have a great look, I think deleting some photos and exploring a little adventure in front of the right photographers,  new or old (depending on comfort level) would transform your portfolio.

Thanks so much for the opportunity and I hope some of this helps.

Ted

Jeffrey M Fletcher wrote:
These sound interesting, thanks.

Whew this is going to be a tough one, for one its just so different, style wise and subjectively 'not my cup of tea' but I am going to really try hard to be objective, but some of what I say is just my opinion and my personal values of what "good art" is.
For one, I love that you have a really specific "thing" going on. All your photos have similar subject matter, color scheme, themes that speak very clearly of what you feel is Artistic or Beautiful. There is this sort of "Ancient Rome" or Mythological type of feeling that ties all of your work together.  So consistency- check. Nailed it. Lots of times photographers in this genre of art are all over the map, I like that your map knows exactly where your going, my kind of map.

As far as the critique part, I think the level of skill you have with the digital art portion or digital retouching could be greatly enhanced. Meaning, I have a feeling that you know enough photoshop or whatever you are using to get by or perhaps a little more, but I certainly dont see mastery of that. Imagine for a moment that you were instantly a master digital retouching photoshop guru with a dark state of the art expensive computer drinking pina coladas while you slave away on tedious retouchign projects getting paid thousands of dollars per hour, Ok im exaggerating, but you get the idea. So much of what you are doing depends on 'digital art' and your skill level could be way way better.

As far as the subject matter that's totally up to you, and its exciting to explore these artistic endevours so to that I say to each his or her own, but at the same time I think its important to be aware of how the rest of the world sees you too, just to check in now and then.  So I might consider answering these questions to yourself. Does my artistic vision cause fear to an 'average person'? Would someone be scared to work with me?  I don't mean this in a kidding way, or to devalue your work at all either, but If you answered yes to either of those you might want to rework your about me to be much warmer, or I dont know exactly, but trusting someone to take photos during pregnancy is such an intimate thing, they would have to feel extremely safe and not even a tiny hint of fear or feelings like that.

Just some things to consider,

I really enjoyed having a look, bold and exciting, different and risk taking, original just warm up your about me and lose any quotes about why anyone needs to be erotic and master the craft of digital art.

Thanks

Ted