I understand I'm meant to judge this competition... I hardly feel qualified to pass judgement on the great work of others, but here goes!

ramseybuckeye - a nice cosy feeling of inviting warmth on a winter's eve. I'm left wishing I could make out some more detail in the walls of the building (or less), but for all I know that's just my cheap LCD screen at fault.

tamia - a gorgeous study in tone, bokeh and texture. And I bet it would look even better as a print. (For me the pixels get in the way with those narrow needles.)

noelcmn - stunning lighting and exposure!

tessfully - a spooky mood skilfully pulled off with subject matter and uneasy composition. Perhaps just a touch of light and shadow would bring out some depth?

Tsukiouji - nice camera you don't often see camera porn done in low key like this

And the winner for me has to be noelcmn. Apart from the visual aspects already mentioned, I find there's plenty keep you lingering over this image. A number of aspects of the photo lead the viewer to wonder about the girl, the setting of the portrait, her life and circumstances, relationship to the photographer, photographer's intent, etc. A great portrait and of course perfectly in line with this week's theme.

[noelcmn]

Oh dear- I am honoured! Thank you Russel, appreciate that honour.

For the record, this was taken indoors at a graduation ceremony, Her name is Lupfumopfumo. (try pronouncing that) Flash used, converted to B/W and a bit of processing and Bob's your uncle. Her 3 siblings know me quite well, but she does not, and with the attention given me by the siblings, she was a bit bewildered and unsure, which I hope I captured.
The Big Question is "how did you know it was a girl?
Here's the original

[Tamia]

Well done Noel and well deserved. A lovely portrait of a pretty little girl. Thanks for judging Russell, and for your comments on everyone's work. I hear you with regards to the pixelation of the needles in my pine picture!

[ramseybuckeye]

Well done Noel! Nice pickin' Russell!

[tessfully]

Congratulations Noel ... An excellent Portrait in all ways. Thanks for judging Russell and for taking the time to comment on all the entries.