The Leaf Blower

[Randy Foo]

Portrait of a leaf blower worker.

> 1. In what area is critique to be sought?
Seeking comments on framing, exposure, portrait angle and saturation.

> 2. what one hopes to achieve with the piece of work?
I hope the portrait can give a sense of his current state at his job right now, meaning at the moment the shot was taken. His eyes and lack of facial expression projects a stark reality of facing the daily grinds of labour, perspiration and ruggedness.

> 3. under what circumstance is the picture taken? (physical conditions/emotions)
I heard of the rumble of grass cutters and leaf blowers around downstairs from the flat. As I took leave that day so I was at home, yet these sounds were too difficult to ignore, and not for ire, but for good memories! Though the technology has evolved, the sounds of the grass cutters remain approximately the same. Strange as it may sound, it always brings bacK flashes of childhood days. I quickly left home with my camera, rushed down the stairs without my sandals even properly worn-in. I approached one of them, incidently he was a leaf blower instead of a grass cutter. I asked for some photos (together with hand signs). I don't know his name, but I was very appreciative of his willingness to let me take some shots. He posed very naturally in front of my camera without hesitation or awkwardness. I quickly showed the results to him on the LCD of my camera. We smiled together, and parted our ways.

 

[Vic Han]

I think it is a decent photo. I just offer my opinion if I were in your position to take this photo.
I would try to include his equipment in this picture, shooting from ground up. Hopefully the long head of his equipment can give a sense of elongation and strong body.
Exposure-wise, I would increase 1/2 step to make his eyes brighter. Or using the pop-up flash to light up the face.

 

[acousticjun]

Hi Randy,

Think it's a nice shot of this gentleman. Also has an interesting look of pride and some element of defiance that you managed to capture in him.

Only thing is, I wish the photo could incorporate more of the leaf blower - right now it shows part of the connecting tubes on the lower left corner, but without your title, I wouldn't be able to tell that the story behind this gentleman.

Also, there is too much of his body in the picture. The most striking point of the photo is his face, but it has been crammed to the top right corner, with an uninteresting blue polo tee taking up most of the picture.

My two cents. Otherwise good spirit and shot!

 

[Randy Foo]

I would try to include his equipment in this picture, shooting from ground up. Hopefully the long head of his equipment can give a sense of elongation and strong body.

I didn't think of this, and this is a very good idea!

Also, there is too much of his body in the picture. The most striking point of the photo is his face, but it has been crammed to the top right corner, with an uninteresting blue polo tee taking up most of the picture.

I did take some close-ups. I just made up the decision to upload the one that you currently see for critiques.
Below is a close-up shot. What do you think? Do let me know. Thank you.

2011-12-10 22:17: Edited for a closer crop.

Would appreciate any opinions, critiques, suggestions etc. Thanks in advance.

 

[icarus]

Nice story of your interaction with him... but the shot doesn't tell much.. IMHO you should had taken a full body shot featuring his equipment...

 

[Randy Foo]

Nice story of your interaction with him... but the shot doesn't tell much.. IMHO you should had taken a full body shot featuring his equipment...

Thanks for the feedback. Will attempt again when the opportunity arises.