I like to think that this is the norm. In my face-to-face encounters with people, talking, chatting, and socializing, I mainly and mostly see their eyes, the purported window to the soul. I don't see the age lines, the neck wattles, pimples, acnes, scars. I mean it is there, I do notice it, but it doesn't register in my memorializing the encounter. I'll remember the exchange of ideas and my impression on the person's personality.
In contrast, a portrait doesn't engage the viewer. It's a one-way conversation. The viewer's eyes will roam all over the portrait, and will take in everything.
I feel it is important the portraits eyes remain the focus of attention, and to minimize life effects that distract from that focus. I prefer nuanced and subtle changes that hint of "air brushing" and "botox". Each individual will require different age-appropriate treatments. On submission of the portraits to the clients, I always ask if I've gone too far, and offer to walk back on my treatment.
(To the photographers out there, I do my photo-manipulation in layers, so "walking-back on my treatment is easier.)
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