Graham,
This shows what only imagination and the ability to organize the image from start to finish can deliver. This is what a good creative photographer has to do. I don't want to sound extreme about this, but I am so happy to see this work. Of course, anyone can own the same Rolleii 6008, a gem in it's own right. Making this picture work is very satisfying. The clean attractive picture was made with a Sinar digital back at ISO 50*, however, film might have been as impressive , albeit with a very different personality. (A used Mamiya 7 will give competing quality if one has a limited budget.)
As I have said previously, only creative vision is what's needed and then skilled carry-through. Kudos, Graham!
I really like the composition and all the sub-actions and poses, so there's a lot of interest all over but the main action on the left. This use of subjects in with various behaviors is impressive! However, unlike Brueghel's citizens, these guys have "attitude" that could only come from the 1930's onwards. The extra figure on the far left, in his own thoughts lighting a smoke is a strong addition to the workings of the picture. It's a cool, confident and creative touch. This one figure contrasts with action in the rest of the room and so heightens the energy of the image.
So, Mitchell, how did this all come to be? What was the motivation and when did you all know what would be done? Was there a sketch? After all, there must have been 20 opinions from 15 lawyers! Also anything special on the lights?
I particularly like narrative pictures. They're entertaining and even with just a few models it's hard enough to get things right!
Asher
* Most photographers would push the ISO higher. Choosing ISO 50, under such dark contrasty conditions has worked so well. This appears to give the best data for the well exposed areas with no noise from raising the gain. The remaining noise is of course mostly in the shadows has been well managed by noise Ninja. I'd love to see a cutout showing some of that noise, prior to correction, so we could learn something about your great technique.