Research Request System Feedback #2

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• Although it’s difficult to tell at this size, this photo isn’t quite in focus, so off the bat, it shouldn’t be submitted.
• There is an obvious hard shadow around the woman, which leads us to believe that this is an on-camera flash. This could be easily alleviated by using a flash cord so that the flash can be moved higher.
• Sloppy composition. The doctor’s back is cut off for no particular reason.

• Pay attention to backgrounds. There’s a piece of paper sticking out of the bookcase on the right. The books are tilted and sloppy.
• Pay attention to styling. The choice of glasses is too “trendy,” and will significantly impact the longevity of this image as stock.
• Doesn’t quite match “office setting” part of the request. This is more like “Doctor in a library.”
• Casting is slightly questionable in that the model looks like he is 16 years old. In many respects, our visceral reaction to the image is the only one that matters, so if people think this is “Doogie Howser” instead of a “Doctor in an office setting,” then we haven’t succeeded.

Images of finance, job market (successful businessman/woman) and food
Grade: B-

• This is a “believable” image — not overtly posed, and you can buy that this guy is an actual businessman.
• Shine on the forehead should be reduced either by powder (pre), or with Photoshop (post)
• Ringflash is a gimmicky lighting style, but it’s not so objectionable here.
• Background is a bit distracting. Would have preferred either a white/gray background, or eliminating the “hang” of the fabric.

• Mixed lighting sources. When you have a completely controlled environment like a bathroom, there is no reason to have imperfections. Everyone knows toilets are white, and yet there is an orange glow on the left hand side of the photo from an incandescent light.
• Conceptually, the image is ok, but the lighting is poor.

• Rule #1 of food photography: The image should make you want to eat it. In that respect, this image fails.
• Lighting is mixed again. Make it “light and airy,” and white balance needs to be totally neutral.
• This is an obvious case of needing a food stylist (or at a minimum pay attention to detail). There is melted cheese strands on the right of the plate. The cabbage and main dish really look unappetizing. Pick up a copy of Gourmet if you want to see contemporary food imagery.

• It’s a little “stocky” but it’ll work well for an article on job interview or how to write an resume
• There’s a slight orange cast to the image. Neutralize the white balance a little better.
• This is a great example of thinking globally. “CV” is used a lot in Europe but not so frequently in the US. If you have the model and location all set up, you might as well have another document that says “Resume” on it.
• We’re assuming the contact information on the CV is fictitious

Travel, Leisure and Golf Spec Lightbox Request
Grade: D

• Unless the request specifically states “photo illustration,” you shouldn’t submit them
• This image doesn’t make me want to play golf. It just looks a little silly.

• Good composition, good exposure
• FYI: Most full-time golf publications shy away from the silhouette because they consider them dated.