Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Hi Garry,

With pleasure. I appreciate your trust.

What can I say. They're very nice. I always felt you crop too tight, especially in your portraits (and you always felt I overexpose too much )

I find Jenn a little bland, compared to the other models. Her styling doesn't say anything. It has no charm. The others are livelier, more colorful.

You can hold your own as a commercial photographer. You know how to expose and light, and how to make a woman look good, although sometimes it's a little inconsistent. However, the inconsistency is more apparent in your historic work. 

I've said this in the past. I'd like to see you use your imagination more. You have the technique to execute, but your pictures have a familiar quality to it, in the sense that I have seen this often. I would like to see you go crazy, and do some things outside the box.

All that being said, I do like your Instagram. Following you.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

P.S. Let me know next time you come to L.A.

Thank You Jorge

I will DM You

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
Hello Shadow,

To start with, this kind of picture does not do you any favors: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626745
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626734 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588365 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588370 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588448
They have nothing to do with model photography. you should remove them.
Jorge

I am not sure I understand your final statement? In my mind, all of them are photos of models. That is not to say that they could not be improved or that it might be wiser to delete them but I wonder which/what and maybe why?

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626743 Grain is a bit overdone. I wouldn't mind it so much, if there was some detail in the blacks. The hat is a bad choice. At least you're experimenting. That's a good thing.
Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588371 18+ These are way underexposed.
Jorge

Fair enough. The exposure is based on the highlights, was metered precisely. I wanted the deep shadows, the low key. You seem to prefer high key. Both opinions are perfectly valid.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626741 Gauze effect is overdone. No neck.  https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626738  Snapshot. No neck.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626735 18+ No neck.
Jorge

Deleted the last two, thank you!!!!

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588366 This is you best picture by far. It's well lit, and the pose is very interesting. However, it's too bad it's a ballerina, because that makes it a dance picture. Some decently styled, fashionable clothes, and you would have one heck of a fashion shot.
Jorge

It IS a dance picture!!!! Shot for a calendar for the Fresno Ballet. I learned many good things from working with them, would recommend shooting dancers to everybody!!! As I have said, I've no interest in shooting fashion. I love good fashion photography but it doesn't represent who I am and there is certainly no market for it here in tiny Bellingham.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
I see you use your imagination, but your problem is execution. Look at good photography and improve your technique. see my posts above.
Jorge

Thank you, I have taken thousands of images during my haitus of various used items I was selling. Sharp, detailed photos of every defect becomes important since you don't want any returns. So I've had plenty of practice!!!! Hopefully something good comes of it!!!

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
I hope this helps.
Jorge

It has, looking forward to anything else you can share with me
Best regards,
Michael

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
All the best,

Jorge

Shadow Dancer wrote:
Thanks Jorge, I appreciate your efforts. I get your "no neck" comments, a helpful reminder to keep an eye out next time I shoot. If nobody minds, I would like to go a little deeper on a few things. Partly because I am not sure I understand the critique as well as I could. I am not thin-skinned and have learned far more from my failures than my successes so please don't hold back.

First, a couple of things I would like to share. I was engaged in other creative pursuits  and abandoned photography for many years.

I may be coming back from a LONG break, with the exception of the silk artist hanging upside down (which is not at all  technically as well executed as I would prefer), the images are all from 7 to 25 years old. 20 of the 27 images were shot on film. The image with the grain was shot on Tmax 3200 and blasted with paper developer and violent agitation to create granite-like grain. I know it's not for everybody, the comments on the hat, lighting etc. were understood and useful. Pretty hard to "ungrain" film!!!
The "Splash" image was the final image in a series. I found the model on MM and she wanted to do a "my worst day" series/story.  I  came up with the splash idea as the final straw in a day of frustration and misery.
We had fun and that shot is one you either get the one time you try it or you fail.

The image with the "guaze" (and the non-neck!!!!) was shot on film, an RB67 with a homemade adapter so I could use a vintage German Goerz Dogmar un-coated lens. That was the look it gave. It is also pretty hard to "ungauze" film!!!!
I am an experimenter with a tendency more towards comic effect and (hopefully) a bit of story telling than a "model photographer". I have ZERO aspirations to shoot Fashion or "fashiony". So, I think it's fair that models know what they might be getting into since I shoot trade only at this time. I've got a couple of questions below. Thank you for your time!!!
You asked for a critique. I know you can't ungrain or ungauze film. This is about whether it's a good image or not. I think the graininess, and gauze look overdone and artificial, and work against the image. Regarding the "Splash" picture, I think it's a bad picture, and nothing to show off. Again, you asked for my critique. All critiques are subjective, and subject to the taste of the critic; which you can accept or not. You can be doing this for one year or 25 years, but that doesn't matter. What matters is the work, and whether it's good or bad.

Hello Shadow,

To start with, this kind of picture does not do you any favors: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626745
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626734 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588365 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588370 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588448
They have nothing to do with model photography. you should remove them.
Jorge

I am not sure I understand your final statement? In my mind, all of them are photos of models. That is not to say that they could not be improved or that it might be wiser to delete them but I wonder which/what and maybe why?
They are unflattering. You are photographing a model. Making the model look good is the least you can do. Again, I would remove them.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626743 Grain is a bit overdone. I wouldn't mind it so much, if there was some detail in the blacks. The hat is a bad choice. At least you're experimenting. That's a good thing.
Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588371 18+ These are way underexposed.
Jorge

Fair enough. The exposure is based on the highlights, was metered precisely. I wanted the deep shadows, the low key. You seem to prefer high key. Both opinions are perfectly valid.
Hmm, no. This is about whether it's a good image or not. Again, your lack of technique is working against you, and your work.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626741 Gauze effect is overdone. No neck.  https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626738  Snapshot. No neck.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626735 18+ No neck.
Jorge

Deleted the last two, thank you!!!!

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588366 This is you best picture by far. It's well lit, and the pose is very interesting. However, it's too bad it's a ballerina, because that makes it a dance picture. Some decently styled, fashionable clothes, and you would have one heck of a fashion shot.
Jorge

It IS a dance picture!!!! Shot for a calendar for the Fresno Ballet. I learned many good things from working with them, would recommend shooting dancers to everybody!!! As I have said, I've no interest in shooting fashion. I love good fashion photography but it doesn't represent who I am and there is certainly no market for it here in tiny Bellingham.

I understand it's a dance picture. I have worked with dancers as well, but never made a dance picture. Again, this is by far you best image. All I am doing is speculating how to make it more interesting, and less of a dance picture. Again, this is Model Mayhem, not Dancer Mayhem. These are pictures I did with dancers. There are more in my port and website: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44180357 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/42363839 18+ https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43332947

Hope this helps

John Ashton-Keller wrote:
Curious to hear your feedback, though I think that our styles are somewhat different. It never hurts to hear what does and doesn't work from others. It only helps with expanding our options when shooting.

Hi John,

I hope to satisfy your curiosity.

The first thing that jumps at me is how tight you frame/crop your portraits. They are a little claustrophobic. I would suggest you open up your frame, and let the subject breathe.

The second thing that jumps at me is that you've shot in L.A.

Now, you say our styles are different. I'm not really criticizing style. Style is a showcase of taste. To do that you must know your technique. Without solid technique there is no style.

Our subject matter is different: I'm not quite familiar with the genre, but you seem to be doing a sort of alt-ero-gothic-cosplay.

Learn to light. Your lighting is not flattering to the model. Some images are underexposed, and the lighting is basically flat.

You should remove the 3D images. Without the glasses they just look out of focus.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/4300395 Not bad, but cropped way too tight, and the whites scream a bit. Otherwise, a stylish image. This is your best effort.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44727238 This doesn't work: snapshotty.

This doesn't work either: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44727236 It doesn't say anything. I like to hide faces as much as I can, but look at how I do it. It's expressive.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44771550 18+
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44749691
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44733301 18+
I could go on, but take a look at my port.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44727222 Underexposed, and unflattering.

Your surfaces are not attractive. Your post has to improve. Do you use Lightroom? There are some great Lightroom tutorials on YouTube. I've watched them.

I'm starting to repeat myself several times now in these critiques, but it's very important to learn what makes a good picture. A good book on the history of photography would be helpful.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

0ptical_anomaly wrote:
Hey Jorge!  I'm very, very new here and would thoroughly appreciate and open and honest review!  I am not expecting it to be great as I'm fairly new to photography (only a couple of years with a decent piece of equipment) and only less than 6 months doing nature and landscape themed portraits. Thank you in advance!!!

Hi Optical,

I am happy to help. What is important is to improve. A good photographer has to be like a samurai in that sense: Always improve your skill. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GF5U83UIX1o

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44770114 18+  I like this in a way. The model almost disappears in the frame, and you almost do a double take. I like the "Where's Waldo" quality to it.

I would remove the engagement/maternity pictures. They have nothing to do with model photography. It takes away from your portfolio, more than it adds. Same with the Unassigned fire spinning pictures.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44739614 18+ Snapshot.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44739578 18+ Your angle is too low. You are looking up her nostrils. This may (or may not) have worked in a more straight on angle. You'd get better face this way, I think.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44739577 18+ Not flattering.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44732113 18+ Light is flat.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44731305 18+ Flat again. A high contrast filter may help, but not save the image.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44771604 18+ This, I kind of sort of like. There's a formality to the composition which is interesting, as well as the textures. You see some details in your shadows, which is  a good thing.
Model is a little stiff. Try to always relax the poses, if they are stiff.

Everything else has a snapshot quality to it, which you must avoid.
See my critiques above, regarding recommendations to be done in the following order:

-Learn to identify what makes a good photograph.
-Learn your technique. Make it consistent.
-Unleash your imagination. 


I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Hi Optical,

I am happy to help. What is important is to improve. A good photographer has to be like a samurai in that sense: Always improve your skill. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GF5U83UIX1o

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44770114 18+  I like this in a way. The model almost disappears in the frame, and you almost do a double take. I like the "Where's Waldo" quality to it.

I would remove the engagement/maternity pictures. They have nothing to do with model photography. It takes away from your portfolio, more than it adds. Same with the Unassigned fire spinning pictures.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44739614 18+ Snapshot.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44739578 18+ Your angle is too low. You are looking up her nostrils. This may (or may not) have worked in a more straight on angle. You'd get better face this way, I think.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44739577 18+ Not flattering.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44732113 18+ Light is flat.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44731305 18+ Flat again. A high contrast filter may help, but not save the image.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44771604 18+ This, I kind of sort of like. There's a formality to the composition which is interesting, as well as the textures. You see some details in your shadows, which is  a good thing.
Model is a little stiff. Try to always relax the poses, if they are stiff.

Everything else has a snapshot quality to it, which you must avoid.
See my critiques above, regarding recommendations to be done in the following order:

-Learn to identify what makes a good photograph.
-Learn your technique. Make it consistent.
-Unleash your imagination. 


I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

This is exactly what I was looking for. I really appreciate you taking the time to provide this feedback and will take it to heart and get better. Thank you again Jorge!

0ptical_anomaly wrote:

This is exactly what I was looking for. I really appreciate you taking the time to provide this feedback and will take it to heart and get better. Thank you again Jorge!

Glad to be of service. All the best.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Hi John,

I hope to satisfy your curiosity.

The first thing that jumps at me is how tight you frame/crop your portraits. They are a little claustrophobic. I would suggest you open up your frame, and let the subject breathe.

The second thing that jumps at me is that you've shot in L.A.

Now, you say our styles are different. I'm not really criticizing style. Style is a showcase of taste. To do that you must know your technique. Without solid technique there is no style.

Our subject matter is different: I'm not quite familiar with the genre, but you seem to be doing a sort of alt-ero-gothic-cosplay.

Learn to light. Your lighting is not flattering to the model. Some images are underexposed, and the lighting is basically flat.

You should remove the 3D images. Without the glasses they just look out of focus.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/4300395 Not bad, but cropped way too tight, and the whites scream a bit. Otherwise, a stylish image. This is your best effort.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44727238 This doesn't work: snapshotty.

This doesn't work either: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44727236 It doesn't say anything. I like to hide faces as much as I can, but look at how I do it. It's expressive.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44771550 18+
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44749691
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44733301 18+
I could go on, but take a look at my port.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44727222 Underexposed, and unflattering.

Your surfaces are not attractive. Your post has to improve. Do you use Lightroom? There are some great Lightroom tutorials on YouTube. I've watched them.

I'm starting to repeat myself several times now in these critiques, but it's very important to learn what makes a good picture. A good book on the history of photography would be helpful.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Thanks, sir!

I don't have Lightroom, I have Aperture. And my post work is something I know I definitely need to get better at.

Decay of Memory wrote:
I'd be interested to read about you're impressions, thanks.

Hello Decay,

I confess I'm angry at my own mortality as well.


You have some interesting work, sir. Your work is consistent, but some I like better than others.
Have you seen the work of Joel-Peter Witkin, or Jan Saudek? You have a light air of them, and I wouldn't be surprised if you are familiar with their work.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/33784081 18+
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/33784092 18+
However, your work is not as strong as theirs. The horse heads look a little rubbery and cheap. It kind of ruins it for me. It's like a badly styled fashion image. I don't think they even need them to be interesting. It would remove the "That's a guy with a horse head mask" in the mind of the viewer, aspect of the picture.

I really like this:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/31477143 18+ Very cool verticality about it. Love the textures of the rope (I'm not a rope guy, myself, and I don't consider this a rope picture by any means, especially since she's not tied up. The rope here is shape and texture.), and that big knot that she's holding on to. The top abstraction is interesting as well. I'm trying hard to figure out what I'm looking at.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/31478284 This is very good because it's unexpected. You have combined a very clear image and an abstraction. I believe that's the combination that works best.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/31478034 This is still interesting, but less successful. However,  I like the greens you used on the top. Nice combination of color. The abstraccion is better in color than black and white.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/31478162 I personally hate sepia. Overdone.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/31477407 18+ The figurative image on top is not interesting enough to hold the picture together, Feels a bit lazy, compared to the rope, for example. However, the yellow and red are on spot.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/31478162 Same here. Not interesting enough. Looks more like a decorative piece (A bad word for me).

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43128347 18+ My least favorite. Simply not interesting enough. I would also stay away from tattoos, if I were you. You are inserting someone else's work into your own.

All in all interesting, but it needs more. Witkin's and Saudek's work are good because they are transgressive. I think you need more of that oomph in yours. I always tell my models that we are not here to please the viewer. We are here to make the viewer a bit uncomfortable, a bit challenged.

You have Dionysus as your avatar: Be more dionysian.

It's been a pleasure. Let me know if you should ever find yourself in L.A.

All the best,

Jorge

Lucy Valle wrote:
Hi there Jorge, would really appreciate a critique to see where I can improve.

Thanks

Hello Lucy,

First, I would get rid of the "Events" section. It's completely irrelevant to what we are doing here.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/42849392 This doesn't belong either.

On your "Fashion" album the cover photo seems to be the only image that looks anywhere close to fashion, but I don't see it in your portfolio.

You have a big model problem in my opinion. Your choice of models is no good. A lot of your pictures have a snapshot quality to them, and this justy makes it look more unprofessional. https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44391037 and hands should be off the head, always.
But back to the point I'm trying to make: This is not fashion.

https://www.anneofcarversville.com/styl … exico.html This is fashion (by my friend, Alexander Neumann). It's styled, and it has a fashion model. Knowing Alex, he didn't light this, but his post is impeccable. His work is coherent, and he understands the language of fashion. I know this because we worked together a few times.

My recommendation is:

Look at fashion magazines as much as you can. Learn what makes a good fashion picture.
Learn styling.
Learn lighting. Your lighting is flat and boring.
Learn post.
Pay a fashion model. If you want to shoot fashion, you need a fashion model. There's no way around it.

Learn what makes a good picture. Learn your technique. Invest in a model or two.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Hello Lucy,

First, I would get rid of the "Events" section. It's completely irrelevant to what we are doing here.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/42849392 This doesn't belong either.

On your "Fashion" album the cover photo seems to be the only image that looks anywhere close to fashion, but I don't see it in your portfolio.

You have a big model problem in my opinion. Your choice of models is no good. A lot of your pictures have a snapshot quality to them, and this justy makes it look more unprofessional. https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44391037 and hands should be off the head, always.
But back to the point I'm trying to make: This is not fashion.

https://www.anneofcarversville.com/styl … exico.html This is fashion (by my friend, Alexander Neumann). It's styled, and it has a fashion model. Knowing Alex, he didn't light this, but his post is impeccable. His work is coherent, and he understands the language of fashion. I know this because we worked together a few times.

My recommendation is:

Look at fashion magazines as much as you can. Learn what makes a good fashion picture.
Learn styling.
Learn lighting. Your lighting is flat and boring.
Learn post.
Pay a fashion model. If you want to shoot fashion, you need a fashion model. There's no way around it.

Learn what makes a good picture. Learn your technique. Invest in a model or two.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Thanks for taking time to critiquing my portfolio. I'll take time to learn more about what makes a good fashion picture. Follow up question though, do any of pictures have a portrait quality to them? Just wondering since the paid gigs Ive gotten have been of just portraits and Im thinking maybe I should start giving some refunds...

Lucy Valle wrote:

Thanks for taking time to critiquing my portfolio. I'll take time to learn more about what makes a good fashion picture. Follow up question though, do any of pictures have a portrait quality to them? Just wondering since the paid gigs Ive gotten have been of just portraits and Im thinking maybe I should start giving some refunds...

If your client is happy, there's no reason to refund the money. If the client is unhappy, well yes.

They do have a snapshot quality to them.

Alexandra Vincent wrote:
I'm interested in your thoughts. I would like to remove some older images,  but those also tend to be the ones people seem to like the most and continue to comment on - even though I find the older ones boring. I should frame the request for critique by saying that I shot most of my own portfolio, and much of what I didn't shoot, I did the editing for (though not all). Not sure whether that makes a difference, but it probably bears mentioning. A handful of the newer images were shot by others. Thanks.

Hello Alexandra,

Feel free to remove whatever you wish to remove. I know how difficult it is.

You have a pretty good portfolio. It's tasteful, and some images are interesting. If these are self shot, they are better than most photographers' work.

I really don't have much to comment on your portfolio, except that you seem to be doing the right thing. Just stay away from photographers who are below your skill level.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Hello Alexandra,

Feel free to remove whatever you wish to remove. I know how difficult it is.

You have a pretty good portfolio. It's tasteful, and some images are interesting. If these are self shot, they are better than most photographers' work.

I really don't have much to comment on your portfolio, except that you seem to be doing the right thing. Just stay away from photographers who are below your skill level.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Thank you, Jorge.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Shadow Dancer wrote:
Thanks Jorge, I appreciate your efforts. I get your "no neck" comments, a helpful reminder to keep an eye out next time I shoot. If nobody minds, I would like to go a little deeper on a few things. Partly because I am not sure I understand the critique as well as I could. I am not thin-skinned and have learned far more from my failures than my successes so please don't hold back.

First, a couple of things I would like to share. I was engaged in other creative pursuits  and abandoned photography for many years.

I may be coming back from a LONG break, with the exception of the silk artist hanging upside down (which is not at all  technically as well executed as I would prefer), the images are all from 7 to 25 years old. 20 of the 27 images were shot on film. The image with the grain was shot on Tmax 3200 and blasted with paper developer and violent agitation to create granite-like grain. I know it's not for everybody, the comments on the hat, lighting etc. were understood and useful. Pretty hard to "ungrain" film!!!
The "Splash" image was the final image in a series. I found the model on MM and she wanted to do a "my worst day" series/story.  I  came up with the splash idea as the final straw in a day of frustration and misery.
We had fun and that shot is one you either get the one time you try it or you fail.

The image with the "guaze" (and the non-neck!!!!) was shot on film, an RB67 with a homemade adapter so I could use a vintage German Goerz Dogmar un-coated lens. That was the look it gave. It is also pretty hard to "ungauze" film!!!!
I am an experimenter with a tendency more towards comic effect and (hopefully) a bit of story telling than a "model photographer". I have ZERO aspirations to shoot Fashion or "fashiony". So, I think it's fair that models know what they might be getting into since I shoot trade only at this time. I've got a couple of questions below. Thank you for your time!!!
You asked for a critique. I know you can't ungrain or ungauze film. This is about whether it's a good image or not. I think the graininess, and gauze look overdone and artificial, and work against the image. Regarding the "Splash" picture, I think it's a bad picture, and nothing to show off. Again, you asked for my critique. All critiques are subjective, and subject to the taste of the critic; which you can accept or not. You can be doing this for one year or 25 years, but that doesn't matter. What matters is the work, and whether it's good or bad.

Hello Shadow,

To start with, this kind of picture does not do you any favors: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626745
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626734 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588365 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588370 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588448
They have nothing to do with model photography. you should remove them.
Jorge

I am not sure I understand your final statement? In my mind, all of them are photos of models. That is not to say that they could not be improved or that it might be wiser to delete them but I wonder which/what and maybe why?
They are unflattering. You are photographing a model. Making the model look good is the least you can do. Again, I would remove them.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626743 Grain is a bit overdone. I wouldn't mind it so much, if there was some detail in the blacks. The hat is a bad choice. At least you're experimenting. That's a good thing.
Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44588371 18+ These are way underexposed.
Jorge

Fair enough. The exposure is based on the highlights, was metered precisely. I wanted the deep shadows, the low key. You seem to prefer high key. Both opinions are perfectly valid.
Hmm, no. This is about whether it's a good image or not. Again, your lack of technique is working against you, and your work.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626741 Gauze effect is overdone. No neck.  https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626738  Snapshot. No neck.
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44626735 18+ No neck.
Jorge

Deleted the last two, thank you!!!!

It IS a dance picture!!!! Shot for a calendar for the Fresno Ballet. I learned many good things from working with them, would recommend shooting dancers to everybody!!! As I have said, I've no interest in shooting fashion. I love good fashion photography but it doesn't represent who I am and there is certainly no market for it here in tiny Bellingham.

I understand it's a dance picture. I have worked with dancers as well, but never made a dance picture. Again, this is by far you best image. All I am doing is speculating how to make it more interesting, and less of a dance picture. Again, this is Model Mayhem, not Dancer Mayhem. These are pictures I did with dancers. There are more in my port and website: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44180357 https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/42363839 18+ https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43332947

Hope this helps

Thanks Jorge.

Leanne Harpin wrote:
Not a photographer, just a makeup artist.

Can I join in too?

Yes, of course, Leanne!

I went to your website. You seem to be a good technician. I don't see anything wrong on the side of makeup anywhere, eeven when the photography is suffering. I would personally be happy to work with you.

All the best,

Jorge

Vincenzo Travino wrote:
Hi Jorge! I like your deeply critiques... I’d like to know your opinions about my works please. Thank you!

Ciao Vincenzo,

I will critique your work.
In other words, I will apply my taste to your work.

I see you are of those fascinated by feet; them being a fundamental part of your aesthetic. I never understood this fetish, and I often ask the models who work with me to not show their soles to the camera. My apologies if I sound insensitive in my critique, but I will apply my taste to your work.


https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44776611 18+ I would call your style "informal glamour". What this picture lacks is ever so slight detail in the blacks, as well as separation from the background. This may sound weird and picky, but the position of her shoulder bothers me. I feel like it should be back a little bit... back, but relaxed. Not a bad effort, but not great either.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44767871 18+ No neck. I would erase the tattoos. I personally don't like seeing other people's work in mine.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44735753 The fact that your predilection for feet is obvious, kind of spoils this picture. It's a pleasant portrait, flattering, but nothing out of the ordinary. However, the fact that it is about feet, I find a bit disappointing. I wish it was more about her.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44735738 No neck + tattoo. Body looks short too, due to cropping.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44727652 18+ The out of focus prominence of the feet, kill this picture.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703483NO 18+ No neck, unflattering angle.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703464 18+ Good, pleasant flattering portrait.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703460 18+ Shoulder down slightly. Lengthens the neck. Relax those feet.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703441 18+ Pretty model, and nice coloration. However, her camera positions and angle are not helpful to the pose. I would like to see more body. Relax those shoulders too.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703431 18+ Shoulder. Mouth is tense.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703422 18 + No neck. Shoulder down.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703412 18+  Screaming whites. Hands off the head. 90% of the time it looks bad.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44700565 18+ A little stiff, too posed. Otherwise good portrait. Again, more detail in the blacks would be nice.

You need to refine your technique. Separate from the background a little more. Watch your whites, and more detail in the blacks.

You hit it on the head with pictures like this: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44703464 18+
but ruin the effect with pictures like this: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/4472766

Your work is not consistent, your taste is not consistent. The photography gets tainted by the fetish. I would say that you should separate the two. Make a public photography page, and a fetish page under a pseudonym. Your fetish is hurting your photography.

Is everything film, or is there some digital here? I noticed you mention film in one or two.

Also, relax your models, and keep their necks long.

Love both Naples and Rome. Lived two years with a Roman curator    
http://www.gershonkreimer.com/index/void#11 18+ You know the allusion, of course!


I hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Decay of Memory wrote:
Jorge,

First let me say that I hope if your picture is of your current state that you’re back out, back up, and able to work soon.

Thank you for your observations and encouragement, your critique is very helpful. Yes, I’m aware of  the work of Witkin and Saudek, and yes, I have a bit of envy with both of them at the strength of their work compared to what I’ve done. Especially with Witkin, there’s an extremity that I admire and that quality is one that I’d seek to emulate. Out of photographers though Hans Bellmer is the greatest inspiration - the perversity and humanity that he got out of his dolls amazed me when I first saw his images and I’ve kept considering them over the years.

It’s funny that I sort of remember Saudek’s and even more so Witkin’s work as being done with a sort of sepia. More in memory than in reality, although Witkin got some good use out of his rather brown tone. Different age and working method though. I think you’re right about the sepia. I don’t think it’s the most interesting choice I can make and there’s not a good reason for it. Kind of a kitsch, craft approach, so that’s something to change.

I do like the masks I have, and like the effect they have on the models, but, I’ve also been moving  away from the sort of more usual carnival masks and started creating some of my own that are odder and more personal. I think some of the issue is the same as what you mention with the tattoos - it really is other people’s work. Less tattoos as well.

As for transgression, it can be a bit tricky. It seems to me that we’re in a sort of consolidation and cleansing phase. These corporate entities currently appear remarkably efficient at scrubbing things on the internet into an approximation of a shopping mall. But, that’s just the challenge of the times.

My thanks again and best wishes, Jeffrey

Bellmer, yes! I love his pictures inspired on Story of the Eye. One of my favorite books as well.

I am fine, thank you.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Yes, of course, Leanne!

I went to your website. You seem to be a good technician. I don't see anything wrong on the side of makeup anywhere, eeven when the photography is suffering. I would personally be happy to work with you.

All the best,

Jorge

Awesome!

Yea I was thinking a couple of the photos were a bit weak photography wise. Probably why it's good get other people's opinion on it, haha.

traceyourworld wrote:
Hi Jorge, I would love your opinion on my photos. Thanks in advance!

Hello Tracey,

When it comes to models, I normally critique them, not their photos.

Not much to say. You are in the right niche. I would just recommend that you keep your neck long, and relax your face a bit more: expression should be from the inside out, otherwise you are just making faces; make it real.

The quality of the photographers you work with is consistent: Not great, but not awful either. Middle of the road.


Best of luck,

Jorge

Luxuria  Studio wrote:
Hey Jorge, love the work! I'm curious about my portfolio, just updated my MM, but I feel like i have trouble to get a sense of my work, it's way easier with a website lol.

Hello Aria,


I see many styles here. A real hodgepodge. Technically you're fine; your execution is good.

This is what stands out for different reasons:

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44793702 Too much chin, too much nostrils. In cases like this to ask to model to move her chin down slightly (without shortening the neck) is what should be done.
The tattoo kind of ruins the romanticism of the picture. I personally prefer to erase them. Whether you like them or not, you are putting someone else's work in yours, and it's distracting.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44793664 This is a much better image.There's an atmosphere which is lacking in the image above. Colors are great, and in this case, I don't mind the tattoo as much. I feel it mimics her hairdo.
Nicely done, well executed.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788155 This could be a nice commercial image if it wasn't for the open legs.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788153 This image says nothing.
Neither does this one: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788006

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788002 I'm all for cropping parts of heads, but the cropping itself must be expressive. https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43372343 18+ This is from my port, for example.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788098 Almost a good picture. Watch the hands always.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788001 Model is leaning forward to much, shortening her neck. Also the depth of field should be better here. Pretty model. Well lit.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43203252 Nice catalog shot. More like this, if this is what interests you.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43203176 Meh!
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43203180 Meh!

What I would do if I were you, is firstly organize your portfolio into different folders: Commercial/Lifestyle, Boudoir (or Glamour), Portraits (like the quirky picture I liked). It'll be easier for you to make sense of your work, and edit out the weaker images. After that you can figure out what you want to specialize in. Does this make any sense?

Hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

Hello Aria,


I see many styles here. A real hodgepodge. Technically you're fine; your execution is good.

This is what stands out for different reasons:

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44793702 Too much chin, too much nostrils. In cases like this to ask to model to move her chin down slightly (without shortening the neck) is what should be done.
The tattoo kind of ruins the romanticism of the picture. I personally prefer to erase them. Whether you like them or not, you are putting someone else's work in yours, and it's distracting.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44793664 This is a much better image.There's an atmosphere which is lacking in the image above. Colors are great, and in this case, I don't mind the tattoo as much. I feel it mimics her hairdo.
Nicely done, well executed.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788155 This could be a nice commercial image if it wasn't for the open legs.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788153 This image says nothing.
Neither does this one: https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788006

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788002 I'm all for cropping parts of heads, but the cropping itself must be expressive. https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43372343 18+ This is from my port, for example.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788098 Almost a good picture. Watch the hands always.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/44788001 Model is leaning forward to much, shortening her neck. Also the depth of field should be better here. Pretty model. Well lit.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43203252 Nice catalog shot. More like this, if this is what interests you.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43203176 Meh!
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/pic/43203180 Meh!

What I would do if I were you, is firstly organize your portfolio into different folders: Commercial/Lifestyle, Boudoir (or Glamour), Portraits (like the quirky picture I liked). It'll be easier for you to make sense of your work, and edit out the weaker images. After that you can figure out what you want to specialize in. Does this make any sense?

Hope this helps.

All the best,

Jorge

Yes thank you! You're right for lots of them, my clients are escorts so your meh and the ones that says nothing are photos that must respect the privacy, and help them advertise. Technically okay, but boring as hell. I'm still figuring what I want to do, boudoir is what pay my bills, but it's also what i feel like is a job, not very creative.

Eros Fine Art Photo wrote:
Nothing better than the bitter truth.  Have at it; I'm curious to hear  your thoughts.

Damn it! You could have been "Thanatos Fine Art Photo"

We've worked with some of the same models. I remember once someone was either going to you after me, or coming from you. I can't place who, though. Someone from out of town.

As a technician you are good. Your images are well exposed, in focus, and your surfaces are nice. You tonalities in color are nice too.

The only real criticism I have is that your work is a little boring: The poses, the expressions... It suggests to me that you may not directing the models. Nothings pops. Everything is pretty even.

Also, the allusions to pop culture, like the Alien thing, or the stormtrooper mask don't really work; it's cliche. However, the pictures are fine technically. Your problem is not execution, but conception.

I would suggest you get out of the box for a while, and see how that feels. Don't be so tasteful, be a little transgressive. Make an image that dares the viewer to look at it, that makes the viewer slightly uncomfortable. The more subtle, the more they can't really place what it is that bothers them, the better.

Your framing can also be more interesting. Everything is very centered. You frame like a Russian (Sven Nykvist complained that Tarkovsky framed everything in the center when they worked together in "The Sacrifice". "He frames like a Russian! Everything in the middle!", he's reported to have said.)
Play with negative space, strange cropping and framing. It's all so conservative. You have the technique, you can experiment, go a little crazy, have fun, don't take yourself so seriously, enjoy life!

Luxuria  Studio wrote:

Yes thank you! You're right for lots of them, my clients are escorts so your meh and the ones that says nothing are photos that must respect the privacy, and help them advertise. Technically okay, but boring as hell. I'm still figuring what I want to do, boudoir is what pay my bills, but it's also what i feel like is a job, not very creative.

Separate job from creative; which doesn't mean you can't be creative in the job ones.

All the best,

Jorge

Jorge Kreimer wrote:
Damn it! You could have been "Thanatos Fine Art Photo"

We've worked with some of the same models. I remember once someone was either going to you after me, or coming from you. I can't place who, though. Someone from out of town.

As a technician you are good. Your images are well exposed, in focus, and your surfaces are nice. You tonalities in color are nice too.

The only real criticism I have is that your work is a little boring: The poses, the expressions... It suggests to me that you may not directing the models. Nothings pops. Everything is pretty even.

Also, the allusions to pop culture, like the Alien thing, or the stormtrooper mask don't really work; it's cliche. However, the pictures are fine technically. Your problem is not execution, but conception.

I would suggest you get out of the box for a while, and see how that feels. Don't be so tasteful, be a little transgressive. Make an image that dares the viewer to look at it, that makes the viewer slightly uncomfortable. The more subtle, the more they can't really place what it is that bothers them, the better.

Your framing can also be more interesting. Everything is very centered. You frame like a Russian (Sven Nykvist complained that Tarkovsky framed everything in the center when they worked together in "The Sacrifice". "He frames like a Russian! Everything in the middle!", he's reported to have said.)
Play with negative space, strange cropping and framing. It's all so conservative. You have the technique, you can experiment, go a little crazy, have fun, don't take yourself so seriously, enjoy life!

Thanks, Jorge.  I believe it was Blaire that we both worked with.  She stayed at my place while she was out here and arranged a few other shoots during that time.

I think your assessment is spot on.  I've been telling myself to break out of my mold for a while now, so I figured the masks were a step in that direction.  You're right though; I do play it safe and try to keep my images within what's normally accepted as "good composition". 

Interesting point about centering subjects.  Anyone who knows me, knows that I'm one of the most even-keeled people you could ever meet.  I constantly strive for balance in my life, so I wonder if I subconsciously do the same thing in my photography.  I'll have to explore that more.

I appreciate the feedback.

Eros Fine Art Photo wrote:
Thanks, Jorge.  I believe it was Blaire that we both worked with.  She stayed at my place while she was out here and arranged a few other shoots during that time.

I think your assessment is spot on.  I've been telling myself to break out of my mold for a while now, so I figured the masks were a step in that direction.  You're right though; I do play it safe and try to keep my images within what's normally accepted as "good composition". 

Interesting point about centering subjects.  Anyone who knows me, knows that I'm one of the most even-keeled people you could ever meet.  I constantly strive for balance in my life, so I wonder if I subconsciously do the same thing in my photography.  I'll have to explore that more.

I appreciate the feedback.

You know the old Zen saying: If you ever meet Buddha, kill him.

You're welcome. If you are ever in the neighborhood, give us a ring.

Jorge Kreimer wrote:

You know the old Zen saying: If you ever meet Buddha, kill him.

You're welcome. If you are ever in the neighborhood, give us a ring.

I'm right down the 101.  We'll definitely have to meet up one day.