[cmatoso]

I've been working on D and B and would like some critiques on how this looks and how to take this picture to the next level. I've learned so much just by reading these posts. Thanks

Chantal

[AltIvan]

Looks like a corpse to me. Use D&G when is requiered; in this one could be eyes, the mark under the eyes, a little bit on the sides of his forehead.

In this one Liquify to make simetrical her eyes would be also a good idea.

And too much blurry; but thats a photographer problem (but you can fix it a little).

[cmatoso]

Thanks for the critique. I'll see what I can do.

cm

[TommyO]

Hi Chantal,
It is a challenging photo due to the depth of field problem. So focus mostly on the face, although you will have to match some skin tones to the shoulders.

Basically, it sounds like you could benefit from some basic "workflow" strategy help. Keep in mind that there are things to do first, some to do last. And, before starting you need to determine what about the image needs refining.

The basic beauty workflow is the following (with personal preference's to some):
1. Perform the overall color / tonality corrections;
2. Clean up blemishes and other distractions in the image;
3. Balance symmetry in the face, i.e. make eyes parallel, brows equal in weight;
4. Do any reshaping of the face, nose, ears, body;
5. Perfect the skin;
6. Enhance eyes, lips, hair with additional lashes, shape, color;
7. Color correct selective areas as needed;
8. Work on lighting (sometimes there is none), overall focus, and sharpness;
9. One final sharpen, then get another opinion.

It appears you are still in steps 1 & 2, which is fine. Your choice of color correction for step one will depend on your goal. So, without knowing your goals, we cannot comment on the color, except from a glamour standpoint. So, share with us your goals and ideas for the image so we can better critique it !

Thanks !
Tommy

[cmatoso]

Thanks for the feedback and workflow help. I sometimes just get lost in my workflow and jump around too much. I'll be working on some new photos today so I will try and getting something up. It is so helpful to get this kind of feedback. What are my goals? I want to photoshop like Chris! I have a long way to go but I find his work so inspiring. I love the way he uses light to correct and how he keeps the feeling of the original image and yet improves it dramatically. Thanks again.

Chantal