my wife...

[schrackman]

Thanks JoeD and Gary, I appreciate the comments and you touched on the very reasons why I thought this was the best photo I've taken of my wife...unusual angle, saturation of colors, and the simplicity of the overall photo. Technically, I didn't have to touch this one in Photoshop, not even with sharpening, so I'm always elated when I take a photo like that (which is very rare! hehe).

As for the "fake" clouds, kamboura, I think what you meant was to mask out the existing background and merge into the photo a picture of a cloudy background. I didin't think of that because, as I stated above, how much I liked the simplicity of this photo. No doubt clouds would add another dimension to this image, but in my mind it seems it would be an unwarranted manipulation. But I appreciate your input anyways, so thanks!

Oh, and no, I didn't use any flash, just available light. I don't care much for the onboard flash of my DRebel, so I really don't use it at all except on occasion.

Ray

[another view]

I think it's a good simple shot (I'm in the simple = good in most cases group, btw). The low angle you were at and having her centered makes her look more (trying to think of the right word...) strong or powerful. Hope you understand what I mean, and the smile is great - not posed or a "say cheese" type of smile. Side lighting looks good too and I wouldn't add anything else to it. I see why you like it.