The Jazz Vocalist

[Matt K.]

Here is an image (Marko, this is the only one worth salvaging of the lot ... the "vocalist" does exist, and here she is) of a Jazz vocalist. Since I was not happy with the image, I modified it quite a bit. I would like your input as to what works and what does not.
Here is the original:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5396129471_559d1aa3d5_b.jpg

This seemed quite a bit on the harsh side for me. I wanted to soften it up, so I added some layers with different opacity and different degrees of blur in them as well. Also tried to take some saturation out. I tried to get the silhouette line of the face relatively sharp and soften the remainder of it. Still not happy, hence the cry for critique and help.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/5396129571_36a2f8a5c9_b.jpg

The finally I wanted to put an emphasis on the eyes ... but I am still not happy. Should I take more contrast out? Or would it be better to take more saturation out, almost to a black and white?

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5396129647_fbc7346158_b.jpg

[Jay.Yang]

To me, the eyebrow and microphone are the sharpest point in the picture (not the eye itself). And that's where my eyes are drawn to. I don't know, but if she actually opens her eyes, that might make the picture more interesting.

[Richard]

I like the modified background in the third shot, suggesting stage lighting, but IMO you need to mask off her face a little or play with the curves to make it less 'flat and grey'

[Mad Aussie]

I don't feel either of the modifications are an improvement. Actually I don't mind the original at all.

Can I have a play with that original?

[Matt K.]

I don't feel either of the modifications are an improvement. Actually I don't mind the original at all.

Can I have a play with that original?

Go wild, MA ....

[Mad Aussie]

Ok here's my go at it ... some softening of the skin, removed the hair over the eye and mouth, removed the hand because it looked cut off to me (had to make the rest of the mike of course) and was distracting, closed her eye completely, adjusted the light a little.


Your original for comparison
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5396129471_559d1aa3d5_b.jpg

[crowKAKAWWW]

I love madaussie's edit, the tags and such on the microphone were really pulling attention away from the singer. Although another change I would do is remove that massive sniper dot on her forehead ;)

[Mad Aussie]

Although another change I would do is remove that massive sniper dot on her forehead ;)
But if she sings badly we need some way to get her off stage!!! ;)

[Matt K.]

Hmmm ...she does sing wonderfully, so I suppose we'll have to do something about the sniper mark ...

Really like your treatment, MA, thanks.

[Mad Aussie]

You're welcome

[Greg_Nuspel]

She does sing very nice, but I do like the snipper dot for a few individuals that show up, because some people blow it on stage YouTube - The Fast Show-"Jazz Club" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSQVvjiXxJU&playnext=1&list=PL8CBB2430E9FEF58C&index=11).

Nice treatment MA

[Mad Aussie]

Thanks Greg :)