I made this portrait of Deva during a studio lighting workshop I was giving this morning.  I was teaching classic lighting styles and ratios when I went off script because I got an idea of trying to light her with reflective light off of a mirror that was placed below her.  I am deeply honored and humbled by the gift of her willingness be vulnerable for my camera in front of an audience.  

I feel emotion when I look at this image.  It feels sincere and authentic.  I broke the composition and lighting rules I was teaching but  I was instantly satisfied with the decision.  As I reflect on the image now  I feel it represents the concept of spiritual faith and a powerful inner strength that comes from the enduring human spirit.  Faith comes from the light shining  above and strength emanates out of the depths of our experiences.

I admire photographers like Dave Heath, Irving Penn and Michel Comte, and more recently Platon who have this ability to draw out emotion in iconic ways.  I think I am getting there with this image.  

To see more images from this photo session click here.