First Retouch- Feedback Greatly Appreciated!

[mikesavi]

Hello!

I have just recently joined RetouchPRO. After producing music for the last decade or so, I decided to return to school @ the U of M to get a Graphic Design degree. I have recently taken a great interest in retouching, and I've been studying this art extensively for the last 3 months or so.

I found an online contest (Editable Photos), and decided to give it a shot. The image was provided by them. This is my first attempt at a beauty retouch. I would really appreciate feedback.

Lastly, I'd just like to mention how impressed I am with this site, and how all of you help each other out. You are awesome! It's really inspiring, not to mention helpful in the biggest way.

Image link:
http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/h...reandAfter.jpg

Happy New Year!
Mike

[mikesavi]

I just noticed I posted this in the wrong area. How do I delete a thread?!

[daygraphics]

I like it a lot. I think you did a really good job. Small critiques - perhaps somewhat subjective... I don't like the top right hair with the big swoop. Prefer some loose strands. If going to fill in with all dark tone, I would take it all the way out - no small corner of background -same with back left edge.

I would like to see some further work on the hand - right around the base of the heel area. Just smooth out a tad more.

I really like the skin tones. Makes her look more Asian - not sure if she is or if that was your intended outcome - but it really works.

[mikesavi]

Thank you! I really appreciate the feedback. The small critiques help me out. I may just rework a few things in those areas and see what I can come up with. I see what you're talking about, though.
Yeah, I was trying to push the skin tone in that direction. I have no idea if she's Asian, but for some reason I thought going in that direction would enhance the image. It's great to hear that it worked on some level.
Thanks!

[FelineZegers]

Looks good! My advice would be to work on the lip line a bit more and straighten the eyeliner a bit :-). Great work tho!

[Jaalpari]

very very nice work brother. keep it up

[Vernon]

Aside from what has already been posted my only suggestion would be that you allowed the eyes to be darkened; if that was the intent then disregard my remark.
If not intended I would suggest revisiting the eyes to either brighten the iris more, or at least return its original color levels.

[mikesavi]

Thanks again for the feedback, everyone!

@ FelineZegers: I see what you mean. As I become more and more familiar with retouching, I'm beginning to refine my eyes. I agree with both of your suggestions. Thanks!

@ Vernon: I totally missed that when I did this retouch. I have since gotten a new monitor, and the first time I looked at this retouch on it, I noticed that. I'm not sure what my deal was before, but that slipped by me somehow. Thanks for the great advice, though!