How to achieve this "look"

[DanDemole]

http://xxlmag.com/online/wp-content/...7/sopranos.jpg

The above link is of a sopranos advertising photo. I like the post-processing job done on it and was wondering if someone out there can help me "decompose" the image and process involved. Beyond the obvious of being really contrasty, what else is involved.

I really appreciate the info. Thanks gang.

-Dan

[Caesium]

Check these 2 links:

http://www.retouchpro.com/forums/pho...-acheived.html

http://www.reviewzine.com/photoshop-...ur-photograph/

[DanDemole]

Will do - thanks for the lead.

[superkoax]

I will say that the technique of photography isn't the main issue here...The way the people stare empty into the distance,looks like they thinking alot. If you se the picture the main flash comes from the front(the flash is reflected in the wall) and just on the left of paulies left shoulder there. also there is a flash to light up the face of the people to the right. So around three flashes in front. Propbably som lighting over the people ass well.

My best tip(since i love the sopranos pictures) is to use one flash from abve(it depends on how many people you are)...if found this picture by accident one time I think that the on light source works great

http://www.imdb.com/gallery/ss/03252...hint=nm0308161

http://www.worth1000.com/entries/135...5637KPSO_w.jpg

well...that's my thught around the whole thing! looks, stare, atmosphere and light source! And of course some degree of color enhancement in PS, but I think that color enhancements comes last in this matter...

Gerry

[edit]
the last link there didn't work, so i posted the picture here in the attachments....

PS: last picture in the attachments with the golf equipment is taken by me and my friend Jorgen! *BRAG RIGHTS*