Turning those nightmare shots into something worthwhile...

[joefish]

Hey, my name's Joseph and I'm new around here.

I took this shot:
,

which was post-processed on my computer somewhat, from this original (and horrible) photo:
,

I am fairly pleased with the final result, although:

What could be done to improve such a shot in the future?
And what tips do you have for "getting it (more) right the first time", to avoid having to do much/any post-processing?

The particular photo was taken on a very overcast, but very bright/glare-y day. Because of the location of the shot (which probably could have been picked better), and the location of the sun (perhaps I could have moved so that the sun was more directly behind the subjects), I found it very hard to get a good result... but I'd love to hear what you have to say!

Thanks.

[jiminyClickit]

joefish,

So no flash, 1/3200 second at f/5.6? Flash would give features some definition, dropping speed would do wonders for overall lighting, as would f/2.8 if you have it.

Your post work is OK if you want to stay in the semi-silhouette look. It could be turned into a much clearer, brighter photo. Want to do it on your own, reshoot, or see an edit from some of us?

[joefish]

Well as the location and people are a couple of hours drive away, I don't have the opportunity to re-shoot.

At the time the only lens I had was the standard 18-55mm that comes with Canon DSLRs, which meant f/5.6 was the widest aperture I could achieve without moving closer (which is evidently what I should have done, but didn't think about at the time). I do now have some other lenses, and can see why a wider aperture would have helped.

The other thing that I haven't experimented with, but would be interested in hearing people's opinions and ideas about, is using a flash outdoors. (I have an external flash).

I would be interested in seeing your edit of this photo, and then to know what you did to achieve it.

As a side note, I had the post-processed image printed on canvas, and am really pleased with the way that the semi-silhouette look comes out on that medium.

I have a lot to learn, but am certainly keen to do that learning! Thanks for your help

[jiminyClickit]

joefish,

I'm imagining it looks much better printed, and an edit would mostly just illustrate what flash may achieve. If I get a good one, I'll post here.

Meanwhile, several good threads in Techniques deal with outdoor flash, and also on the parent DPS Blog. Enjoy the journey.

[rachel]

I prefer the original. This may be because I'm not much of a professional, but the first one seems a bit raw-er, more rugged.

[jiminyClickit]

joefish,

A little lighter; I would reshoot if you need to. If the print serves your need, that's great. This dark original has the wrong shadows to imitate flash and goes all noisy at the bright point. Good practice, thanks for that.