Capturing the Essence

What makes this such a compelling image? Is it the composition, following the “Thirds” rule so meticulously? Is it the fact that there’s nothing superfluous, nothing to clutter up the scene and detract from the very definite focal point? The light providing a semi-silhouette and yet with enough clarity to allow the subject to be recognizable? Or maybe it’s the imposing figure standing in front of heavy boulders and the vastness and power of the sea. Or the hat? The shadow? The reflection? Yes, it’s all of this working and coming together to “paint” the painter, to turn the tables on the man usually behind the easel. Here, Nancy is the artist and Stephen the subject.