Nice concept. The light is a bit harsh.

have to agree with light, though a good concept..also eyes are too dark

Thank you both for the look and the comments.

This image makes a very strong message, speaking of how minorities and/or women are silenced in society. For that reason it is a good image. Lighting...yes it's strong, but sometimes that's just the way it is. I think the lighting would not be an issue if the woman's eyes carried a catchlight in them. Even as it is I think, for me, the message of the image outweighs anything else.

I think often times, when we are looking at other photographs, we forget to look at the whole image. We only look for technical perfection instead of thinking about what the image means. And it's the meaning, mood, or emotional response that I have to an image that is more important than the technical details. We are story tellers - artists who are trying to show the viewer something. When we evaluate images, we shouldn't forget that.

uncommondepth,

Wow..............that is by far the most positive comment/critique I have ever received on a photo.

You totally "get it."

This is a strong conceptual image for me.....and one that I gave a lot of thought about in composing. It is an idea that speaks for those who are muted by society biases (at least that is the intention). The woman in the photo is my wife,....a filipina & immigrant to Canada (and is also a very talented photographer in her own right) who has endured much discrimination and hardship in her struggle to have a decent life.

I am greatly honored by the words you have voiced........and if you ever make it over here to Toronto from Alberta, dinner is on us. Strangly enough, we were just in Calgary 3 months ago on vacation.

-Michael & Marilyn

Thanks Michael. You just never know when I might end up in your neck of the woods. You've got some things in Ontario that I'm itching to photograph.

this photo conveys the exact message you are trying to portray-nice one!

I really appreciate the feedback, Paul.

Technical perfection is only one part of a good photo.
The other part is the message. This photo has a message and is very expressive.