Begin with your observation
Name the actual image and the aspect of its presentation that interests you. Explain your observation in plain language rather than assuming that a broad category says everything. The reference should lead to a more specific question about the artist’s own contribution and the discussion you want to have.
Keep the photograph in context
Identify who created the work and who made or published the photograph. Lighting, framing and editing are part of presentation. Ask for appropriate context from the responsible artist rather than treating a single image as an independently assessed account of their practice.
Distinguish interest from agreement
An enquiry about a visual direction is not an accepted commission. Confirm the artist’s current contact, the nature of an initial discussion and the actual written terms. Keep private information out of a general message and do not assume that a reference authorises copying another person’s design.