Friend I shot a while back.

Critiques welcomed.

4 Comments

Question - is this direct, on-camera flash? If so, get that light off the camera if possible. I know sometimes that's tough, especially at events where they want pictures but don't want to see any trace of a photographer, but if you can move the light, you can get much more interesting effects. Second, she looks a little annoyed to me - applying some of Peter Hurley's techniques to pull some more/different expression out of her would probably get you a better shot.

user-161754 avatar

Hi Lee.
Don has touched on a couple of really great points here.
I'd like to suggest that picking up a 36" Octagonal softbox, as well as a similar size reflector will transform your control of light on the face. They take a bit of practice, but are worth their weight in gold.
I had a friend sit for me several Saturday mornings in a row while I sorted this out. Gave me heaps more confidence with the rig.
If you're unsure, buy a couple of cheapies and have a go. Try Craigs List or similar. Plenty of used gear there that's just perfect for this. If you like 'em, then get a really good octa.They last way way longer than the cheap ones and are a joy to use.
Cheers

I don't like that you cropped her hair and the light looks really harsh. Also I'm not quite getting her position, is she leaning while standing or sitting on a chair?

She was standing, but leaning on a bar stool.

More Posts in: Headshot Photography

The king

Hiking in this beautiful region is like a present.Also standing at high elevation and looking to the king of Austria.The first snow the changing coloursand all the combination with the weather cond

Oasis

One of my favorite waterfalls I've photographed in recent years. deep in the backcountry of Vancouver Island lies this pristine oasis.