Lucifer In Chains
arigram

Lucifer In Chains

This was a sort of a silly non serious experiment I did.
One night I was convinced to try a little nude self portrait and I grabbed things from my chest of props with no plan or concept in mind.
Doing self portraiture like that proved to be a bitch though. I took a couple dozens shots with my DSLR, then a few Polaroids, then a whole roll of film just for this one pose with just a couple variations (where I was looking, which leg was forward). It is very difficult to judge the photograph when you can't see your lighting, your pose, your expressions or even if you are in focus or fit in the frame. I am sure I could have done better technically wise.

But, I posted this on the Critique Gallery and I want some honest critique. You are free to tear to it shreds because I honestly can't decide on this picture: is it stupidly cheesy or is it any good? Should I do more of that or should I hide it away from prying eyes?
I want you to tell me if its stupid or if you can go beyond the idea, what are its technical flaws.
Location
Iraklio, Crete, Greece
Equipment Used
Hasselblad 503CW, 2.8/80 Planar, Tripod, Two strobes
Film & Developer
Ilford PanF+, Ilfosol 3
Paper & Developer
Ilford Multigrade, Kodak Sepia
Lens Filter
Softar I + Softar II
Thank you Ilya for this most comprehensive review and proposal.
Still, I am aware of some of the failings of the image that you mention and yes, I could have gone for more drama, but I was a bit apprehensive in regards to my expression and pose as not to overdo something that already felt kinda cheesy.
My main concern is though, the cheese factor. Putting aside the flaws of posing and lighting, does this whole concept work? Should I take it further? Or is already ridiculous to begin with? Being the model myself, its very hard to judge it in a neutral way.

I am also surprised that there has been so many views but only your single comment Ilya, which in my book, is not a good thing. People get intrigued by the thumbnail and then when they see the full picture they decide that the full investigation was not worth it, especially not to take the time to leave a comment. Even "this sucks" would be enough.
 
I won't elaborate too much - just to say this works for me and I don't think there's any thing I'd change.

I did alot of work on self portraiture a while back and found it very challenging but good fun and kind of therapeutic in some ways.

Bill
 
Ari,

I just looked at this on my screen at home , frankly , Ii would not change a thing , i have to learn not to comment until I have seen it on a better screen...

Regards ,

ILYA
 
I think the presence of the sunglasses keeps the photo in the "not to be taken seriously" category. I have no doubt that you put alot of effort into your creation and it might be worth it to pursue your attempts until you exhaust your imagination. I also feel that you should have more room above your head and to get some lighting on your hair. Have you tried a full length mirror to see and judge your pose and lighting effects.

Cheers
TEX
 
Other than a need (IMO) for a bit of 'space' above the head and below the feet, I think it's a really interesting and well executed shot. It would, I suspect, be a good contender for an album / CD or book cover as it's sufficiently detailed but with a very abstract edge to it. Other than the fact that the male nude does nothing for me as a genre, I think it's very good indeed.
 

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Critique Gallery
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arigram
Date added
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