I give this image a 12 out of 12. IMO, it really pops and makes an outstanding photo.
Anyone that gives you critique should show you some of their images, and then you will be able to tell if they know what they are talking about. To be able to grow in your art, be sure to listen to those that can show you they know what they are talking about. I am not saying that I do, I just enjoy good photos, images, pictures, snaps, captures, whatever you want to call them, and I believe I know *why* I like what I like. I like this one a lot. I bet your customer will absolutely LOVE it, too. You have special talent.
A few snaps of mine are at my website listed below my signature.
Here is why I gave this image a 12: (My reasons are in black)
12 Elements of a Merit Image
Twelve elements have been defined as necessary for the success of an art piece or image. Any image, art piece or photograph will reveal some measure of all twelve elements, while a visually superior example will reveal obvious consideration of each one. They are:
1. Impact is the sense one gets upon viewing an image for the first time. Compelling images evoke laughter, sadness, anger, pride, wonder or another intense emotion. There can be impact in any of these twelve elements.
My eyes went immediately to the face of the dog, and I smiled, because I really liked your image.
2. Creativity is the original, fresh, and external expression of the imagination of the maker by using the medium to convey an idea, message or thought.
How in the world did you get the dog to pose like that? Wow. THAT is creativity!
3. Technical excellence is the print quality of the image itself as it is presented for viewing. Retouching, [COLOR=#AC0000 !important]manipulation[/COLOR], sharpness, exposure, printing, mounting, and correct color are some items that speak to the qualities of the physical [COLOR=#AC0000 !important]print[/COLOR].
This image borders on Art, in my opinion, the bokeh, the varied shades and color of background, and the way you processed it are just great.
4. Composition is important to the design of an image, bringing all of the visual elements together in concert to express the purpose of the image. Proper composition holds the viewer in the image and prompts the viewer to look where the creator intends. Effective composition can be pleasing or disturbing, depending on the intent of the image maker.
I think the nice area around the dog gives a perspective of an animal in it's environment, and like the way you have composed it to achieve that.
5. Lighting—the use and control of light—refers to how dimension, [COLOR=#AC0000 !important]shape[/COLOR] and roundness are defined in an image. Whether the light applied to an image is manmade or natural, proper use of it should enhance an image.
The lighting is fine. The brighter spot on the right hand upper side gives contrast and reality to the rest of the image. It doesn't have that awful "backdrop" look.
6. Style is defined in a number of ways as it applies to a creative image. It might be defined by a specific genre or simply be recognizable as the characteristics of how a specific artist applies light to a subject. It can impact an image in a positive manner when the subject matter and the style are appropriate for each other, or it can have a negative effect when they are at odds.
Your talent sets the style for this image. You obviously love animals, and are very good at photographing them.
7. Print Presentation affects an image by giving it a finished look. The mats and borders used should support and enhance the image, not distract from it.
The image is presented in simple elegance. Any borders, mats, frames should be simple and un-obtrusive to maintain that.
8. Center of Interest is the point or points on the image where the maker wants the viewer to stop as they view the image. There can be primary and secondary centers of interest. Occasionally there will be no specific center of interest, when the entire scene collectively serves as the center of interest.
My initial focus was on the eyes, and went from there. Just great. I think your processing enhanced that center of interest, as all good portraits do.
9. Subject Matter should always be appropriate to the story being told in an image.
The story here, obviously, is "I am being good, when do we go play?" Everything is appropriated in this image.
10. Color Balance supplies harmony to an image. An image in which the tones work together, effectively supporting the image, can enhance its emotional appeal. Color balance is not always harmonious and can be used to evoke diverse feelings for effect.
Your post-processing brings out the tones and colors that make this an excellent image. Anyone that is a dog lover will think it is the "Cat's Meow"....
11. Technique is the approach used to create the image. [COLOR=#AC0000 !important]Printing[/COLOR], lighting, posing, capture, presentation media, and more are part of the technique applied to an image.
You have evidently done this a lot. Your technique has it going on. How you got that pose is amazing. There is soooo much going on in this image, and going on right!
12. Story Telling refers to the image’s ability to evoke imagination. One beautiful thing about art is that each viewer might collect his own message or read her own story in an image.
This image makes a connection to my memories of past dogs that lived with me, and it's a beautiful thing....
