Project: Expression

The expression on the face of the sitter has so much influence on the portrait. The expression can be what makes the image more compelling than the physical attributes of the model. Consider Dorothea Lange’s image of the migrant woman:

Migrant Mother, Nippomo, California, 1936

It’s the worry and concern being shown here that makes the image so compelling.

Her clothing and the conditions she and her children are living in impact on the image, but it’s her expression that draws the reader to the picture.

Again, look at Don McCullin’s image of the Turkish Cypriot woman:

A Turkish Cypriot woman mourns the death of her husband at Ghaziveram, Cyprus, 1964

This powerful image is all about the expression on her face. It’s that that draws the reader further into the scene and it’s that which initially grabs the attention.

I don’t hope to emulate these renowned photographers, but suffice to say, the expression needs to be considered and built into a portrait if possible.