Portrait photography and cutting off limbs

[chrisjlee]

I've been told not to cut off limbs in portraiture. But i'm curious to what extent.

Obviously, there aren't really set defined rules of photography and composition.

Could anyone enlighten me on such things?

[Andy]

I've been told not to cut off limbs in portraiture. But i'm curious to what extent.

Obviously, there aren't really set defined rules of photography and composition.

Could anyone enlighten me on such things?

:wave cheers chrisjlee, welcome to dgrin

midway between joints or extremities is generally acceptable. i.e. not at the ankle, but in the middle of the shin or thigh. not at the wrist, but mid-forearm. never half a hand, unless specifically designed...

some examples that i think work well:

http://www.moonriverphotography.com/photos/4847715-L.jpg

final print of this had that teeny bit of hand removed
http://www.moonriverphotography.com/photos/15643813-L.jpg

http://www.moonriverphotography.com/photos/15643765-L.jpg

[chrisjlee]

I've always loved your forum icon (it makes me laught) & adore your work.

That was very helpful advice too.

[PeterGar]

Yah... good advice. Thanks!