Post by Koda Kumi on Jan 16, 2014 4:32:02 GMT
Welcome ladies to the critiques for the second Photoshoot and first Elimination of the game.
We'll start off with Team Christina.
Team Christina
Angelina - Hermes
Christian: Here we see AJ searching the marshes for her next child I kid. Do I?
Anj, very cool interpretation of Hermes, the riverkeeper is a nice version and you have found a nice photo here. I'll start with my positives. I love your hair. It's styled perfectly for any hell excursion but looks so effortless. Very Lara Croft Tomb Raider. Barefeet again is going to get you dinged by Jensen for sure. I personally like it here as well. Your fashion is a bit unspectacular and this is two photos in a row where you have shown a scrunched up AJ. I think this photo will serve you fine, but keep in mind what the judges are saying. Also this is once again SAJBF - that's strike two darling.
Portia: I'm definitely a fan of you Angelina, I liked your submission last round and I like this one as well! I think it's unique and I like how you interpreted Hermes here. I disagree with Christian on the strikes with the serious face. Yes, I understand that we will need to see some versatility from you but that will come when it is the right time. I think the serious face is necessary here, and you obviously pull it off. I love the scenery and I love your look, good job.
Koda: Definitely a beautiful setting for your shot and I think that on a more interpretive theme like this, a great setting can enhance your photo even more than normal. Still, I am drawn to you in this shot, so at least your setting doesn't overpower you, in my eyes. Yeah, you have a serious face again, but I get a different emotion from it this time, so I have no problem with it. I think you've done a good job tying your shot to your chosen Olympian. You're styled perfectly here and it's all tied together to make one really solid submission.
Jensen: I've always liked this photo. The scenery is stunning and the whole setting works well with your chosen Olympian. I love your look and how lost in thought you look. Very good job.
Jenna: I think this photo is stunning. I like how you incorporated your surroundings as part of who you're representing. I, too, think your serious facial expression works well and I like how reflective you look. It seems to me that everything here works well and I think that your pose and worn clothing add a nice finishing touch to the picture. Great work, Angelina!
Blake - Aphrodite
Portia: Blake, let me start with the positive. Aphrodite is born from the foam of the sea so I like how you picked a photo with the ocean in the background. I also like your dress and what it symbolizes. But that is about the only two things I like from this photo. The quality is so-so it seems a little blurry to me. I also am not a huge fan of your facial expression. Blake, you have potential I know you do, now I just want you to show it!! Continue to work hard and pick things up.
Koda: Jensen may not be much of a stickler for quality, but I am and this is unfortunate. Back when I first started playing these modeling games, there was a game that I decided to hand out the Match.com Photo of the Week and this makes me want to bring that back for here cause it kind of looks like a low-quality advertising shot for that company. At least that'll match to Aphrodite, though. You are also tied to your Goddess by the setting and it was a smart connection to have made. It's not all bad news as you were able to hit points on theme, but it was unfortunately at the expense of the modeling quality.
Christian: I promise I have not read other judges critiques yet.
I am going to predict uh oh for you.
All sorts of problems here. Quality isn't great. Kind of looks like a wedding dress. Also your head looks photoshopped on here. I don't want to say a ton more, because there really isn't anything else to say. Sorry honey.
Jensen: Oh dear. The quality is really bad. I'm not a stickler for quality unless it's really bad so you know, this is bad. You're gorgeous though and the setting and the dress are all just spectacular. One other problem is, I think this is a candid from your real wedding right? Always go with a real photo shoot darling.
Jenna: I'm going to start off by saying that is photo is a bit on the blurry side, and usually quality is something you'll rarely hear me speak on. That aside, I think that you're representing your God very well in this shot. I love your white dress, and that you're posing by the Ocean. I agree with Portia that your facial expression leaves a bit to be desired, as it looks as though you were caught off guard when the photo was taken. Other than that, I think everything else here works well.
Cher - Artemis
Christian: Oh Cher darling...replace you with me and that's my dream every night. And I'm usually in that gown!
First off - kudos on interpretation. I really like how creative you were. I think group shots can be tricky but you definitely stand out here. You are owning fiercocity in a major way. I actually really like the gown too. I might be boring on Vegas headpieces. Already Christian? Yes, Cher. Also this is a bit on the candid side versus modeling side - but you will live to make another gay man's concert dreams come true - fo sho.
Koda: I like your interpretation of the shoot this round, especially with what little options you had to choose from. As Cher, you have to be careful about her styling and angles, cause she has some pretty masculine features in areas and it's showing a little bit here. She looks a bit like a man in drag, which is unfortunate since I love the dress and the way she's styled. I guess I just don't like it on her.
Jensen: I love your explanation. I think you stand out really well. You also took a risk by posing with others, especially so many handsome men. But you stand out beautifully. The outfit makes me think Goddess. My only issue with this is the arm placement. They just look odd. Uncomfortable. Otherwise, good photo.
Jenna: Like Portia, I think that your explanation really helped to pull your photo together for me. I like your outfit, and I really think your headpiece stands out to me. I think that you still dominate in the sea of men, since you have a strong presence, which I like. I don't really care for your surroundings, as I feel it kind of cheapens things a bit. This definitely needs some imagination to fully tie everything in, but I think it works. Good job.
Portia: I think your explanation helps me understand this shot a lot better. I agree, it's a bit of a stretch compared to some of the other shots I've seen but I still can see what you were interpreting. I think the fashion and modeling is good here so you get points in that category. I just don't think it relates as well as some of the others I've seen. I like you're creativity though, you are definitely showing that you are deserving to be here.
Christina - Ares
Koda: Who let Snooki in the game? Yeah, this photo may be shopped to hell, but with this being a more fantasy-based shoot, that's a lot more acceptable and works in your favor in this instance. Yeah, it may be styled to Athena, but it still works for Ares, too. You have a very strong connection to the theme, but I'm not as big of a fan of your expression and I'm not liking your orange skin, either. It's good, but not my favorite from you. I would have been completely fine with your Hera shot, but understand your apprehension.
Christian: I guess I am clearly in the minority here, but I absolutely hate this.
I think the photoshop is really bad. The spear is just floating for one. The skin color is unnatural and strange. I just don't think you look pretty here at all. This is the OTT Xtina I was hoping to not see and boom. It doesn't even look like you. Sigh. I feel bad for being such a Debbie Downer, but I just don't like it. I agree with Jensen, you're Hera would have been a home run for me.
Jensen: Whomever edited this photo, edited it to be Athena. But Ares works well. My only issue is that now I have to google the original to see how much editing was done. I'm really disappointed that you didn't choose that first picture because it was too close to Koda's example. There was nothing in the rules that said you couldn't use Hera. You are super sexy. I just found the original. This looks a million times better, but, it's way over edited. The worst part was that arrow, it stood out and it's why I even searched in the first place.
Jenna: I think this photo really hit a home-run, that's for sure. You came prepared to battle and you have all the elements here to show that to us. From your props, to your outfit, everything here works flawlessly. The added touch of flames behind you, despite looking a bit fake, definitely ties everything here together. I really like your headband, because I think it gives a nod to softness, all the while, you're still in control. Your expression is fierce, and overall, this is an excellent photo!
Portia: I love this Christina. Yes, there is a lot of photoshop/editing here but I think in this case it works in your benefit. I love how you look fierce and like a warrior but at the same time you are modeling and look stunning. I think this is another amazing shot from you. I also love the brown hair on you! Well done.
Delta - Demeter
Christian: Delta. Delta. Delta.
Autumnal? No. A stretch at best.
A 1000% improvement? YES. Girl you worked it out here. It is a bit plain and simple, but you look faboo. Love the hair, love the makeup, love the elegance. I just really think you put the smack down on this one. Thank you, much better.
Koda: This shot is a little reminiscent of your shot from last round, but sometimes you just have to go with the shot that fits and this shot fits with your Olympian this round. I think I would have preferred a full-bodied shot this round, but as is, it still works. You look beautiful and the setting fits. Solid photo.
Jensen: I don't find it plain, you're too gorgeous to be plain. The problem here is the lack of scenery. For being the goddess of the harvest, we should see more of the harvest. But it works. And you are stunning.
Jenna: This does most certainly border on plain, but I do think it works for what you are describing. I like how you are looking off into the distance, and how you are still in the forefront of the photo, while your surroundings are highlighting you. Your outfit is a nice touch, and I think it looks like you are dominating the setting in which you're in. Altogether, good work, Delta.
Portia: When I first looked at this I thought it was a little plain but the more I look at it the more I like the simplicity in this shot. It works for you and your Goddess. I love how you are the main focus while the setting is blurred in the background. I also like your simple goddess like attire. I think you did a good job here Delta
Rihanna - Athena
Koda: I'm happy you did something about that white spot. I saw the little argument in the team board about it and was wondering why Cher and I seemed to be the only ones who could see it. I'm oddly fine with your strange facial expression here. It could judge be "model ugly" and I'm fine with that. You have done a fantastic job selling your photo since when I saw it, I had no idea what you were going for, but everything you described, I could see after you described it. It's not the strongest connection we have this round, but it's there and you're fine in that department. The posing is also fine this round. It's not jaw-dropping like your shot was last round, but it's still a solid enough shot for me.
Jensen: I'm a bit surprised with your portfolio that you couldn't have pulled this off. I don't like what's going on with your face in any way at all. Your pose is modelesque, again, but again, your face is ruining it for me. I like your description though.
Jenna: I like all the elements of your Goddess that you have explained and shown to us, Rihanna. It does take a bit of creativity to see, but it's there. I think your outfit works well, for what you're showing us, and I think your pose does help you to look contemplative. I don't like that there isn't a setting to help add to the styling of this shot, and I think your expression is a bit blank, but I do see where you were going with the whole thing, and I give you kudos on that.
Portia: First off, can I just say that the face you are making makes you look like Will Smith haha. Maybe it's just me but anyway, I'm not a huge fan of this to be honest. I loved your photo last week and ranked it as my favorite. But this week I am not as impressed. Yes, you're naturally stunning so I always think you'll look pretty good but I am just not feeling this. The background is a little odd, I see some color smears looks white with some light pink. Maybe it's my eyes who knows. I will say that after reading your explanation I do get your connection that you saw with Athena. I do believe it's a stretch though. Overall, this shot is just a little bit boring to me.
Christian: Rihanna. Portia called you Will Smith.
And she was right.
Girl I know you give better face than Big Willie Style. Not a flattering look my friend. I do like the connection you made with the chess board and strategy. Big props on that one. I love the dress and the shoes too. That's some excellent fashion. Is it first to worst? No. But it's certainly a big drop for you this week. I kind of thought you were robbed last week but I think you'll finish right where you should this week.
Team Leftovers
Cate - Dionysus
Christian: Cate. Happy Globes baby.
Seems like Blue Jasmine is your year, lets see if the Oscars agree.
OK, so your creativity quotient is through the roof, but I think for a modeling shot we may have to bring you back down through the roof and show you the door to the creepy downstairs basement. Submitting group modeling shots when you are the one that is supposed to shine is always tough. Cate does stand out as she is strikingly beautiful but the fact that she is not making eye contact makes it hard to grab on to her right away. I think if she had been more center, looking at the camera or even in a more stand out color this photo COULD have worked. Right now it isn't for me. Not loving the fashion either. It looks like you have squoze a Bob Mackie into a cheap theater seat and now we have bunching etc. While I will give you major points for theme of the shoot...the rest not so much my darling.
Portia: Cate, I do think this is a step up from last round. I think you used your God perfectly here! I love the setting I think it is perfect. I agree with Christian your facial expression/modeling here is a little eh but overall I think you did a decent job.
Koda: It's a bit unfortunate that you don't stand out in this photo as much as you could have. It would have helped if the action of the shot was being directed towards you, but it seems to be directed to the right. You could have stood out if your personal color scheme was different enough from the others. You could have stood out if you were the only one making eye contact, but the only one doing that is the guy to our lower-left. You could have stood out if you were more centered in the shot. So many ways you could have been featured more that were missed. However, it's not like it's hard to find you and that's only one issue (that I just happened to be long-winded about). You do look beautiful here and I think the 'blah' attitude can kinda work in a "Goddess that's above this" type of attitude, so I don't mind it. You've done well connecting yourself to the theme this round and it's an overall improvement over last round.
Jensen: I really like that you stand out above the rest. You took a risk with a crowd this big and it worked. My only issue is with the way the photo looks warped/squished. I'm not sure if that was intended by the photographer or a bad upload, but it's distracting me. Otherwise, this is good.
Jenna: I do agree that it is hard to stand out when being photographed with so many others. You do well here showcasing your God, and I really like all the costumes everyone else has on. You do blend in a bit, but I think you look good. That color compliments you, but I'd be careful in the future of not being the focus. Your facial expression does lack a bit, but I do think you look engaged. Overall, solid effort.
Emma - Hephaestus
Christian: Emma. Dahling. Wingardium Levosa!
I really like this shot and you look fantastic in it. I think you nailed the theme and the explanation of Hephaestus. I would have liked a bit more body so we could see more of the ensem, and thus give you a bit more credit. My only other nitpick here is that this seems like backstage at a fashion show and not an actual modeling shot, so I am going to knock off a few points in my mental abacus. Just keeping it real darling. But I love where you are headed, much better than last week for me.
Koda: I know Jensen loves profile shots, but I think this might be the first round I've been as excited as him when I've seen a profile, cause you have a great one. You're styled perfectly here and I love the sharp lines you're giving us. A setting can often enhance your photo, but this shot didn't need one cause you're giving us everything we need through posing and styling. Great work.
Jensen: This is great. Very high fashion and gorgeous. I love your profile. The hair works with the whole sculptor vibe to this. You've done great.
Jenna: I think that this captures exactly what you were going for, Emma. Your pose is very regal and I think your outfit is divine. I also like the High-Fashion aspect of it, and the color dimension is great. I think your expression is strong, yet a bit on the mischievous side. Overall, the styling of this photo makes everything work fantastically and I think you've done a great job.
Portia: I actually really like this Emma. I saw potential in you last week and you've proven yourself again by submitting another good shot. I can't say that it is necessarily my favorite this round but I think you do a great job of representing Hephaestus. What I really like about this is that yes, your outfit looks like fire/flames but it also comes off high-fashion to me. So not only do you represent your God well but this also is excellent modeling. That's what I am basing my ranking off this round. Two categories, the relation to the God, and the modeling quality. The bone structure in your face look great, and I'm loving the dark lips. You did another good job this round and I won't be surprised if you land towards the top again.
Jennifer - Apollo
Koda: The watermark at the bottom-right is a bit distracting, but I've seen worse. I also tend to not prefer shots from iconic roles and in most games they don't tend to go over well with a lot of judges. However, I don't mind this Hunger Games shot. I love your pose; very fierce. The setting is a little less-than-impressive and might as well have been a studio shot. A studio shot might have actually been a bit better in this instance since that setting looks a bit cheap. Still, I can see your chosen theme in this shot and there's more positive than negative this round.
Jensen: Now this is perfect. Modeling at it's best. The pose, the angles, the fashion, the face. The bow looks good in this and this whole photo is a way better shot than anything from the Hunger Games, so thank gosh you didn't go there. Just work on size next time, a bigger picture is sometimes more appreciated lol But this photo is perfect.
Jenna: I really like your pose here. I think your outfit is unique, and I like that you look sexy, while still maintaining a level of class. Your expression is flirty, and I like your surroundings. I especially like how the light and the shade work together in the background. You represent multiple examples of your God here, which I think is great. Keep up the great work, Jennifer.
Portia: JLaw..another good shot from you. I will start with the obvious and that is that I am not a huge fan of the "glamour" in the bottom right corner. I usually prefer that stuff to be edited/cropped out. I understand that cropping would look a little odd too since it would take some of your feet off. So not sure what would have been best there. Putting that aside, I think everything else about this is great. I love your outfit..showing a little bit of skin but not too risque. You obviously nailed it with the bow and arrow as well. You finished up near the top last round and I can see you doing well again this round.
Christian: JLaw. You slutty little huntress.
So I don't mind the watermark - shit happens and its hard to find the perfect shot and cropping. No harm no foul for me.
That being said I don't LOVE this shot, and you knows I loves you. I think Hunger Games was a bit of a cop out for this shot and I knew it was going to happen. I wanted more for you JLaw. You gave me Hunger Games and I wanted American Hustle. You do look kickin' though. Cleveland anyone? Love the hair too. All around a solid effort but certainly not back-to-back Golden Globes caliber.
Kirsten - Hera
Koda: The lion is fitting and I love that you're so calm around that thing and are able to give us that great expression. I'd be too distracted by not wanting to be eaten to give that good of an expression. I like you dress and accessories, and I really like what you've done with your hair this round. Very strong showing and you've definitely moved up with me.
Jensen: WOW, this is amazing. I love your connection with the camera as well as with the Lion. You really make this work. I am amazed right now.
Jenna: Your expression here reads sly to me, which I like. Your pose alongside the Lion adds a great element to the photo to summarize your Goddess. I think you look great here, and I like the confidence it looks as though you're exuding. This is strong yet simple, at it's best. Nice work, Kirsten!
Portia: Kirsten!! I LOVE this! You definitely picked it up this round!! I seriously love everything about this. The quality is excellent. You represent the Lion and you look fabulous with all of your accessories! Not much more to say here because you really nailed this.
Christian: Much better Kirsten.
I am not as gaga as the other judges though. I think the proportion of things is off. The lion is a tad too big, the purse cuts off your body in a weird way. None of it is tragic, but, for me it is these small things that are stopping me from screaming Team Kirsten from the rooftops. You have definitely jumped up this week and have nothing to fear. Like you are doing with the lion. Not fearing it.
Milla - Zeus
Koda: I have seen Milla played to death in these games, but I don't think I've ever seen this shot. Great initial visual impact. Your hair is fantastic and the posing is perfect. Yeah, it may be a shopped photo, but this is more of a fantasy shoot and shopped photos are a lot more acceptable. I wouldn't expect you to actually be holding lighting, anyway. Your fashion's great, your posing's great, your setting's great, your theme connection's great. I just don't see any problems here.
Jensen: What I love here is, well, almost everything. Yes it's an edited photo but that's the photographer's doing. All of the photos from this shoot for the calendar are amazing. I love your pose, your leg, your arms, your face, your fashion. This is all very very good.
Jenna: This is very visually captivating. I think your pose is very strong, and your facial expression is killer. The nuance of the dark setting with that jolt of lighting lets us know exactly who you are. The styling and outfit show the lines of your body off very nicely, and I think this is excellent. Nice work, Milla.
Portia: Wow, this is one of my favorites this round! I love the lightning and love the darkness. When I think of Zeus I think of power, and that is shown by the intensity in this photo. I thought you did pretty good last round but I think you are one that stepped it up this round. This could easily be a top photo this round. I think your dress goes great with the theme here and I love how we get to see your long legs! Awesome, Milla.
Christian: Milla. See you next Tuesday.
I love everything about this. Fashion. Bitchiness. Fierce. Owning it. I'm going to say this is my favorite this round.
And I haven't even seen them all yet.
#imabitchtoo
Zhang - Poseidon
Koda: Yeah, I was hesitant about playing as Kitty since I noticed she has a tough portfolio, but also thought that I might not have given enough time to researching her. I do find the watermark distracting, too, but you've connected yourself to the theme this round. Not the strongest connection we have, but it's there. Overall, I like a lot of things you're doing here. Not a home run in the modeling department, but there are nice moments to catch here. I like the little peak at your leg through the dress. I like your hair. I love your makeup as it really compliments your natural features. I do wish we could have seen your neck a bit better, though. It's sort of a mixed bag for me here.
Jensen: The writing is distracting. I"m not usually a stickler on those, but try to search images to find one without writing whenever you can. The setting is gorgeous and your dress is gorgeous and I do like your pose. Your face is beautiful, but lacking the oomph I'd like to see. It's nice, but nice isnt' always enough.
Jenna: First, the negative, that watermark is far too big. That aside, I think you have an effortless beauty to you here, and I like how your pose makes it look as though you own the ocean. Your outfit makes you look very serene, and I like the calm yet strong expression you have. I think this is nice, and works very well for the God you're representing. Nice job!
Portia: I'm going to give you the same complaint that I gave one of the other girls and that is that I'm not a fan of the text in the shot. I do however understand your relation to the God of the sea. I just don't have tons to comment on here, I'm sorry. This photo is so-so for me.
Christian: Well the good news is I like it better than last week.
The bad news is...not by much.
I think there is more to a theme than just, oh I was by the water - so that's Poseidon right. You look great, you do. But this seems like a very different photo shoot. Nothing much about it says Poseidon to me and I just can't give you much credit there. Again, I am not a huge watermark stickler - though this one is pretty big. I am with Portia on this one - just so so for me.
We'll start off with Team Christina.
Team Christina
Angelina - Hermes
Christian: Here we see AJ searching the marshes for her next child I kid. Do I?
Anj, very cool interpretation of Hermes, the riverkeeper is a nice version and you have found a nice photo here. I'll start with my positives. I love your hair. It's styled perfectly for any hell excursion but looks so effortless. Very Lara Croft Tomb Raider. Barefeet again is going to get you dinged by Jensen for sure. I personally like it here as well. Your fashion is a bit unspectacular and this is two photos in a row where you have shown a scrunched up AJ. I think this photo will serve you fine, but keep in mind what the judges are saying. Also this is once again SAJBF - that's strike two darling.
Portia: I'm definitely a fan of you Angelina, I liked your submission last round and I like this one as well! I think it's unique and I like how you interpreted Hermes here. I disagree with Christian on the strikes with the serious face. Yes, I understand that we will need to see some versatility from you but that will come when it is the right time. I think the serious face is necessary here, and you obviously pull it off. I love the scenery and I love your look, good job.
Koda: Definitely a beautiful setting for your shot and I think that on a more interpretive theme like this, a great setting can enhance your photo even more than normal. Still, I am drawn to you in this shot, so at least your setting doesn't overpower you, in my eyes. Yeah, you have a serious face again, but I get a different emotion from it this time, so I have no problem with it. I think you've done a good job tying your shot to your chosen Olympian. You're styled perfectly here and it's all tied together to make one really solid submission.
Jensen: I've always liked this photo. The scenery is stunning and the whole setting works well with your chosen Olympian. I love your look and how lost in thought you look. Very good job.
Jenna: I think this photo is stunning. I like how you incorporated your surroundings as part of who you're representing. I, too, think your serious facial expression works well and I like how reflective you look. It seems to me that everything here works well and I think that your pose and worn clothing add a nice finishing touch to the picture. Great work, Angelina!
Blake - Aphrodite
Portia: Blake, let me start with the positive. Aphrodite is born from the foam of the sea so I like how you picked a photo with the ocean in the background. I also like your dress and what it symbolizes. But that is about the only two things I like from this photo. The quality is so-so it seems a little blurry to me. I also am not a huge fan of your facial expression. Blake, you have potential I know you do, now I just want you to show it!! Continue to work hard and pick things up.
Koda: Jensen may not be much of a stickler for quality, but I am and this is unfortunate. Back when I first started playing these modeling games, there was a game that I decided to hand out the Match.com Photo of the Week and this makes me want to bring that back for here cause it kind of looks like a low-quality advertising shot for that company. At least that'll match to Aphrodite, though. You are also tied to your Goddess by the setting and it was a smart connection to have made. It's not all bad news as you were able to hit points on theme, but it was unfortunately at the expense of the modeling quality.
Christian: I promise I have not read other judges critiques yet.
I am going to predict uh oh for you.
All sorts of problems here. Quality isn't great. Kind of looks like a wedding dress. Also your head looks photoshopped on here. I don't want to say a ton more, because there really isn't anything else to say. Sorry honey.
Jensen: Oh dear. The quality is really bad. I'm not a stickler for quality unless it's really bad so you know, this is bad. You're gorgeous though and the setting and the dress are all just spectacular. One other problem is, I think this is a candid from your real wedding right? Always go with a real photo shoot darling.
Jenna: I'm going to start off by saying that is photo is a bit on the blurry side, and usually quality is something you'll rarely hear me speak on. That aside, I think that you're representing your God very well in this shot. I love your white dress, and that you're posing by the Ocean. I agree with Portia that your facial expression leaves a bit to be desired, as it looks as though you were caught off guard when the photo was taken. Other than that, I think everything else here works well.
Cher - Artemis
Christian: Oh Cher darling...replace you with me and that's my dream every night. And I'm usually in that gown!
First off - kudos on interpretation. I really like how creative you were. I think group shots can be tricky but you definitely stand out here. You are owning fiercocity in a major way. I actually really like the gown too. I might be boring on Vegas headpieces. Already Christian? Yes, Cher. Also this is a bit on the candid side versus modeling side - but you will live to make another gay man's concert dreams come true - fo sho.
Koda: I like your interpretation of the shoot this round, especially with what little options you had to choose from. As Cher, you have to be careful about her styling and angles, cause she has some pretty masculine features in areas and it's showing a little bit here. She looks a bit like a man in drag, which is unfortunate since I love the dress and the way she's styled. I guess I just don't like it on her.
Jensen: I love your explanation. I think you stand out really well. You also took a risk by posing with others, especially so many handsome men. But you stand out beautifully. The outfit makes me think Goddess. My only issue with this is the arm placement. They just look odd. Uncomfortable. Otherwise, good photo.
Jenna: Like Portia, I think that your explanation really helped to pull your photo together for me. I like your outfit, and I really think your headpiece stands out to me. I think that you still dominate in the sea of men, since you have a strong presence, which I like. I don't really care for your surroundings, as I feel it kind of cheapens things a bit. This definitely needs some imagination to fully tie everything in, but I think it works. Good job.
Portia: I think your explanation helps me understand this shot a lot better. I agree, it's a bit of a stretch compared to some of the other shots I've seen but I still can see what you were interpreting. I think the fashion and modeling is good here so you get points in that category. I just don't think it relates as well as some of the others I've seen. I like you're creativity though, you are definitely showing that you are deserving to be here.
Christina - Ares
Koda: Who let Snooki in the game? Yeah, this photo may be shopped to hell, but with this being a more fantasy-based shoot, that's a lot more acceptable and works in your favor in this instance. Yeah, it may be styled to Athena, but it still works for Ares, too. You have a very strong connection to the theme, but I'm not as big of a fan of your expression and I'm not liking your orange skin, either. It's good, but not my favorite from you. I would have been completely fine with your Hera shot, but understand your apprehension.
Christian: I guess I am clearly in the minority here, but I absolutely hate this.
I think the photoshop is really bad. The spear is just floating for one. The skin color is unnatural and strange. I just don't think you look pretty here at all. This is the OTT Xtina I was hoping to not see and boom. It doesn't even look like you. Sigh. I feel bad for being such a Debbie Downer, but I just don't like it. I agree with Jensen, you're Hera would have been a home run for me.
Jensen: Whomever edited this photo, edited it to be Athena. But Ares works well. My only issue is that now I have to google the original to see how much editing was done. I'm really disappointed that you didn't choose that first picture because it was too close to Koda's example. There was nothing in the rules that said you couldn't use Hera. You are super sexy. I just found the original. This looks a million times better, but, it's way over edited. The worst part was that arrow, it stood out and it's why I even searched in the first place.
Jenna: I think this photo really hit a home-run, that's for sure. You came prepared to battle and you have all the elements here to show that to us. From your props, to your outfit, everything here works flawlessly. The added touch of flames behind you, despite looking a bit fake, definitely ties everything here together. I really like your headband, because I think it gives a nod to softness, all the while, you're still in control. Your expression is fierce, and overall, this is an excellent photo!
Portia: I love this Christina. Yes, there is a lot of photoshop/editing here but I think in this case it works in your benefit. I love how you look fierce and like a warrior but at the same time you are modeling and look stunning. I think this is another amazing shot from you. I also love the brown hair on you! Well done.
Delta - Demeter
Christian: Delta. Delta. Delta.
Autumnal? No. A stretch at best.
A 1000% improvement? YES. Girl you worked it out here. It is a bit plain and simple, but you look faboo. Love the hair, love the makeup, love the elegance. I just really think you put the smack down on this one. Thank you, much better.
Koda: This shot is a little reminiscent of your shot from last round, but sometimes you just have to go with the shot that fits and this shot fits with your Olympian this round. I think I would have preferred a full-bodied shot this round, but as is, it still works. You look beautiful and the setting fits. Solid photo.
Jensen: I don't find it plain, you're too gorgeous to be plain. The problem here is the lack of scenery. For being the goddess of the harvest, we should see more of the harvest. But it works. And you are stunning.
Jenna: This does most certainly border on plain, but I do think it works for what you are describing. I like how you are looking off into the distance, and how you are still in the forefront of the photo, while your surroundings are highlighting you. Your outfit is a nice touch, and I think it looks like you are dominating the setting in which you're in. Altogether, good work, Delta.
Portia: When I first looked at this I thought it was a little plain but the more I look at it the more I like the simplicity in this shot. It works for you and your Goddess. I love how you are the main focus while the setting is blurred in the background. I also like your simple goddess like attire. I think you did a good job here Delta
Rihanna - Athena
Koda: I'm happy you did something about that white spot. I saw the little argument in the team board about it and was wondering why Cher and I seemed to be the only ones who could see it. I'm oddly fine with your strange facial expression here. It could judge be "model ugly" and I'm fine with that. You have done a fantastic job selling your photo since when I saw it, I had no idea what you were going for, but everything you described, I could see after you described it. It's not the strongest connection we have this round, but it's there and you're fine in that department. The posing is also fine this round. It's not jaw-dropping like your shot was last round, but it's still a solid enough shot for me.
Jensen: I'm a bit surprised with your portfolio that you couldn't have pulled this off. I don't like what's going on with your face in any way at all. Your pose is modelesque, again, but again, your face is ruining it for me. I like your description though.
Jenna: I like all the elements of your Goddess that you have explained and shown to us, Rihanna. It does take a bit of creativity to see, but it's there. I think your outfit works well, for what you're showing us, and I think your pose does help you to look contemplative. I don't like that there isn't a setting to help add to the styling of this shot, and I think your expression is a bit blank, but I do see where you were going with the whole thing, and I give you kudos on that.
Portia: First off, can I just say that the face you are making makes you look like Will Smith haha. Maybe it's just me but anyway, I'm not a huge fan of this to be honest. I loved your photo last week and ranked it as my favorite. But this week I am not as impressed. Yes, you're naturally stunning so I always think you'll look pretty good but I am just not feeling this. The background is a little odd, I see some color smears looks white with some light pink. Maybe it's my eyes who knows. I will say that after reading your explanation I do get your connection that you saw with Athena. I do believe it's a stretch though. Overall, this shot is just a little bit boring to me.
Christian: Rihanna. Portia called you Will Smith.
And she was right.
Girl I know you give better face than Big Willie Style. Not a flattering look my friend. I do like the connection you made with the chess board and strategy. Big props on that one. I love the dress and the shoes too. That's some excellent fashion. Is it first to worst? No. But it's certainly a big drop for you this week. I kind of thought you were robbed last week but I think you'll finish right where you should this week.
Team Leftovers
Cate - Dionysus
Christian: Cate. Happy Globes baby.
Seems like Blue Jasmine is your year, lets see if the Oscars agree.
OK, so your creativity quotient is through the roof, but I think for a modeling shot we may have to bring you back down through the roof and show you the door to the creepy downstairs basement. Submitting group modeling shots when you are the one that is supposed to shine is always tough. Cate does stand out as she is strikingly beautiful but the fact that she is not making eye contact makes it hard to grab on to her right away. I think if she had been more center, looking at the camera or even in a more stand out color this photo COULD have worked. Right now it isn't for me. Not loving the fashion either. It looks like you have squoze a Bob Mackie into a cheap theater seat and now we have bunching etc. While I will give you major points for theme of the shoot...the rest not so much my darling.
Portia: Cate, I do think this is a step up from last round. I think you used your God perfectly here! I love the setting I think it is perfect. I agree with Christian your facial expression/modeling here is a little eh but overall I think you did a decent job.
Koda: It's a bit unfortunate that you don't stand out in this photo as much as you could have. It would have helped if the action of the shot was being directed towards you, but it seems to be directed to the right. You could have stood out if your personal color scheme was different enough from the others. You could have stood out if you were the only one making eye contact, but the only one doing that is the guy to our lower-left. You could have stood out if you were more centered in the shot. So many ways you could have been featured more that were missed. However, it's not like it's hard to find you and that's only one issue (that I just happened to be long-winded about). You do look beautiful here and I think the 'blah' attitude can kinda work in a "Goddess that's above this" type of attitude, so I don't mind it. You've done well connecting yourself to the theme this round and it's an overall improvement over last round.
Jensen: I really like that you stand out above the rest. You took a risk with a crowd this big and it worked. My only issue is with the way the photo looks warped/squished. I'm not sure if that was intended by the photographer or a bad upload, but it's distracting me. Otherwise, this is good.
Jenna: I do agree that it is hard to stand out when being photographed with so many others. You do well here showcasing your God, and I really like all the costumes everyone else has on. You do blend in a bit, but I think you look good. That color compliments you, but I'd be careful in the future of not being the focus. Your facial expression does lack a bit, but I do think you look engaged. Overall, solid effort.
Emma - Hephaestus
Christian: Emma. Dahling. Wingardium Levosa!
I really like this shot and you look fantastic in it. I think you nailed the theme and the explanation of Hephaestus. I would have liked a bit more body so we could see more of the ensem, and thus give you a bit more credit. My only other nitpick here is that this seems like backstage at a fashion show and not an actual modeling shot, so I am going to knock off a few points in my mental abacus. Just keeping it real darling. But I love where you are headed, much better than last week for me.
Koda: I know Jensen loves profile shots, but I think this might be the first round I've been as excited as him when I've seen a profile, cause you have a great one. You're styled perfectly here and I love the sharp lines you're giving us. A setting can often enhance your photo, but this shot didn't need one cause you're giving us everything we need through posing and styling. Great work.
Jensen: This is great. Very high fashion and gorgeous. I love your profile. The hair works with the whole sculptor vibe to this. You've done great.
Jenna: I think that this captures exactly what you were going for, Emma. Your pose is very regal and I think your outfit is divine. I also like the High-Fashion aspect of it, and the color dimension is great. I think your expression is strong, yet a bit on the mischievous side. Overall, the styling of this photo makes everything work fantastically and I think you've done a great job.
Portia: I actually really like this Emma. I saw potential in you last week and you've proven yourself again by submitting another good shot. I can't say that it is necessarily my favorite this round but I think you do a great job of representing Hephaestus. What I really like about this is that yes, your outfit looks like fire/flames but it also comes off high-fashion to me. So not only do you represent your God well but this also is excellent modeling. That's what I am basing my ranking off this round. Two categories, the relation to the God, and the modeling quality. The bone structure in your face look great, and I'm loving the dark lips. You did another good job this round and I won't be surprised if you land towards the top again.
Jennifer - Apollo
Koda: The watermark at the bottom-right is a bit distracting, but I've seen worse. I also tend to not prefer shots from iconic roles and in most games they don't tend to go over well with a lot of judges. However, I don't mind this Hunger Games shot. I love your pose; very fierce. The setting is a little less-than-impressive and might as well have been a studio shot. A studio shot might have actually been a bit better in this instance since that setting looks a bit cheap. Still, I can see your chosen theme in this shot and there's more positive than negative this round.
Jensen: Now this is perfect. Modeling at it's best. The pose, the angles, the fashion, the face. The bow looks good in this and this whole photo is a way better shot than anything from the Hunger Games, so thank gosh you didn't go there. Just work on size next time, a bigger picture is sometimes more appreciated lol But this photo is perfect.
Jenna: I really like your pose here. I think your outfit is unique, and I like that you look sexy, while still maintaining a level of class. Your expression is flirty, and I like your surroundings. I especially like how the light and the shade work together in the background. You represent multiple examples of your God here, which I think is great. Keep up the great work, Jennifer.
Portia: JLaw..another good shot from you. I will start with the obvious and that is that I am not a huge fan of the "glamour" in the bottom right corner. I usually prefer that stuff to be edited/cropped out. I understand that cropping would look a little odd too since it would take some of your feet off. So not sure what would have been best there. Putting that aside, I think everything else about this is great. I love your outfit..showing a little bit of skin but not too risque. You obviously nailed it with the bow and arrow as well. You finished up near the top last round and I can see you doing well again this round.
Christian: JLaw. You slutty little huntress.
So I don't mind the watermark - shit happens and its hard to find the perfect shot and cropping. No harm no foul for me.
That being said I don't LOVE this shot, and you knows I loves you. I think Hunger Games was a bit of a cop out for this shot and I knew it was going to happen. I wanted more for you JLaw. You gave me Hunger Games and I wanted American Hustle. You do look kickin' though. Cleveland anyone? Love the hair too. All around a solid effort but certainly not back-to-back Golden Globes caliber.
Kirsten - Hera
Koda: The lion is fitting and I love that you're so calm around that thing and are able to give us that great expression. I'd be too distracted by not wanting to be eaten to give that good of an expression. I like you dress and accessories, and I really like what you've done with your hair this round. Very strong showing and you've definitely moved up with me.
Jensen: WOW, this is amazing. I love your connection with the camera as well as with the Lion. You really make this work. I am amazed right now.
Jenna: Your expression here reads sly to me, which I like. Your pose alongside the Lion adds a great element to the photo to summarize your Goddess. I think you look great here, and I like the confidence it looks as though you're exuding. This is strong yet simple, at it's best. Nice work, Kirsten!
Portia: Kirsten!! I LOVE this! You definitely picked it up this round!! I seriously love everything about this. The quality is excellent. You represent the Lion and you look fabulous with all of your accessories! Not much more to say here because you really nailed this.
Christian: Much better Kirsten.
I am not as gaga as the other judges though. I think the proportion of things is off. The lion is a tad too big, the purse cuts off your body in a weird way. None of it is tragic, but, for me it is these small things that are stopping me from screaming Team Kirsten from the rooftops. You have definitely jumped up this week and have nothing to fear. Like you are doing with the lion. Not fearing it.
Milla - Zeus
Koda: I have seen Milla played to death in these games, but I don't think I've ever seen this shot. Great initial visual impact. Your hair is fantastic and the posing is perfect. Yeah, it may be a shopped photo, but this is more of a fantasy shoot and shopped photos are a lot more acceptable. I wouldn't expect you to actually be holding lighting, anyway. Your fashion's great, your posing's great, your setting's great, your theme connection's great. I just don't see any problems here.
Jensen: What I love here is, well, almost everything. Yes it's an edited photo but that's the photographer's doing. All of the photos from this shoot for the calendar are amazing. I love your pose, your leg, your arms, your face, your fashion. This is all very very good.
Jenna: This is very visually captivating. I think your pose is very strong, and your facial expression is killer. The nuance of the dark setting with that jolt of lighting lets us know exactly who you are. The styling and outfit show the lines of your body off very nicely, and I think this is excellent. Nice work, Milla.
Portia: Wow, this is one of my favorites this round! I love the lightning and love the darkness. When I think of Zeus I think of power, and that is shown by the intensity in this photo. I thought you did pretty good last round but I think you are one that stepped it up this round. This could easily be a top photo this round. I think your dress goes great with the theme here and I love how we get to see your long legs! Awesome, Milla.
Christian: Milla. See you next Tuesday.
I love everything about this. Fashion. Bitchiness. Fierce. Owning it. I'm going to say this is my favorite this round.
And I haven't even seen them all yet.
#imabitchtoo
Zhang - Poseidon
Koda: Yeah, I was hesitant about playing as Kitty since I noticed she has a tough portfolio, but also thought that I might not have given enough time to researching her. I do find the watermark distracting, too, but you've connected yourself to the theme this round. Not the strongest connection we have, but it's there. Overall, I like a lot of things you're doing here. Not a home run in the modeling department, but there are nice moments to catch here. I like the little peak at your leg through the dress. I like your hair. I love your makeup as it really compliments your natural features. I do wish we could have seen your neck a bit better, though. It's sort of a mixed bag for me here.
Jensen: The writing is distracting. I"m not usually a stickler on those, but try to search images to find one without writing whenever you can. The setting is gorgeous and your dress is gorgeous and I do like your pose. Your face is beautiful, but lacking the oomph I'd like to see. It's nice, but nice isnt' always enough.
Jenna: First, the negative, that watermark is far too big. That aside, I think you have an effortless beauty to you here, and I like how your pose makes it look as though you own the ocean. Your outfit makes you look very serene, and I like the calm yet strong expression you have. I think this is nice, and works very well for the God you're representing. Nice job!
Portia: I'm going to give you the same complaint that I gave one of the other girls and that is that I'm not a fan of the text in the shot. I do however understand your relation to the God of the sea. I just don't have tons to comment on here, I'm sorry. This photo is so-so for me.
Christian: Well the good news is I like it better than last week.
The bad news is...not by much.
I think there is more to a theme than just, oh I was by the water - so that's Poseidon right. You look great, you do. But this seems like a very different photo shoot. Nothing much about it says Poseidon to me and I just can't give you much credit there. Again, I am not a huge watermark stickler - though this one is pretty big. I am with Portia on this one - just so so for me.
