Who Shot It Better? Wonder Woman: Brian Bowen Smith or Craig McDean

I grew up watching Lynda Carter’s Wonder Woman, and it’s difficult conceiving of any other actor playing the part (similar to Hugh Jackman as Wolverine). But times change, actors age, and series get rebooted. So here we are in 2017 and Wonder Woman is finally coming to the big screen with Gal Gadot in the titular role.

Gadot won the Miss Israel pageant before performing her compulsory military service for the Israel Defense Force. She credits her military service with helping to convince director Justin Lin in casting her in the Fast and Furious franchise. Good looks and athleticism made her a prime candidate for playing Diana Prince. We should also mention that Gadot did some reshoots for the movie while five months pregnant, which literally makes her a wonder of a woman.

But before we look at the covers, let’s bask in the beauty of Lynda Carter.

*swoon*

Starting us off is New York-born Brian Bowen Smith who did the honors for Italy’s Io Donna magazine. Smith used a big beautiful light that looks like it’s just about on the axis of the lens. It’s pretty high up judging by the shadow under Gadot’s arm. The dark background makes Gadot pop off the page. I also like the texture of the dress which helps to break up the very smooth tone of her skin and the background.

Next up is Craig McDean for W Magazine. McDean is no stranger to this series, having been previously featured for his work with Charlize Theron. Love the neutral palette of this image from the background to the clothing to make-up. The light is just off to camera right creating a little bit of a sculpting effect on Gadot.

Inside the magazine, McDean has a whole spread of images that show off his versatility. I’m partial to this image from the cover shoot. It reminds me a bit of Herb Ritts’ Madonna image, but tighter and not as high key. But the side profile, the lighting pattern, and even the off-the-shoulder is very evocative of Ritts.

Verdict: Although Smith’s image is solid, it feels generic when directly compared to McDean’s. Also, in looking at some of Smith’s other work, I feel like his post production can be a little heavy-handed on the skin retouching. 

Ok, Lynda, take us out!