http://www.sebastiand.com/blogimages/2008-01-15-0185-Version-2.jpg

My friend Debbie has opened a shop in downtown Naperville featuring her art as well as that of her friends. She specializes in surreal collages. I wanted to give her an image that she can use for promotional use that communicates her style and the shop's. If she looks familiar it's because she's appeared on HGTV and WGN several times. She will also be showcased on HGTV's "That's Clever" this year.

Check out her website (http://www.thebeatofmyart.com/) and if you're in the Chicago area stop by the store! She's a great person that creates inspiring work.

Nice portrait, Sebastian. The light is very nice. You spotlighted her really well and showed background detail without it distracting from your main subject. I also feel like her personality is really showing through in this photo. Makes me want to see more photos and know more about her.

Hey - that comment should have been on Photo Critique, huh?!

The portrait is good. It includes her art and surroundings and yet still has her stand out strong from them. I like the point of view looking down at her as she is seated in her shop.
There is nothing pretentious about it and makes me imagine that I would find her just like that if I came strolling in one day. If I had anything to "critique" it would be the wish of having a little more illumination to the lower sides where there is obvious light falloff. However, there is a warm and cozy feel to this and that light falloff is part of the mood, so it is not necessarily a fault.
Good luck to your friend, all the best.

I dunno, I think the right side is too dark.

Psych! :prrr:

Nice...

Thanks guys (except for Steve.)

Gary,

The fall-off was intentional. I burned in the corners to make her pop better.