Catchlights in eyes

[ginger71]

When taking an outdoor portrait, I use a reflector. But it seems the only way I can get any reflection in the eye, is when the reflector is low - so the catchlights are at the bottom of the iris and it doesn't look as good. How do I get the catchlight in the eyes at the 2 o'clock position? I'm thinking of buying an on camera light source. Any recommendations? I cannot stand the speedlight flash that I have. I doesn't produce that nice "natural light" look.

[Rentham]

In a shot like that, the sky primary light source. Eyes to the light to light the eyes. Have the subject look up a bit. Use the reflector to fill in under the eyes a bit. Even though this shot is low res, if you look close enough you can see the sky, me, and the reflector in her eyes.



Obviously the reflections aren't at a specific point on her eye, but that isn't how reflections look in nature. If you going for the natural look, don't worry so much about getting the catchlights at 10 or 2.

[scootermcq]

Originally Posted by ginger71

I'm thinking of buying an on camera light source. Any recommendations? I cannot stand the speedlight flash that I have. I doesn't produce that nice "natural light" look.

Getting it off camera with something like this: Off camera flash...Can't go wrong with this Can help make your speedlight much nicer.

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by scootermcq

Getting it off camera with something like this: Off camera flash...Can't go wrong with this Can help make your speedlight much nicer.

Great for studio, but not so much if you're chasing a two year old around a huge field with lots of interesting stuff for him/her to investigate.

[ChrisAdval]

Originally Posted by ginger71

When taking an outdoor portrait, I use a reflector. But it seems the only way I can get any reflection in the eye, is when the reflector is low - so the catchlights are at the bottom of the iris and it doesn't look as good. How do I get the catchlight in the eyes at the 2 o'clock position? I'm thinking of buying an on camera light source. Any recommendations? I cannot stand the speedlight flash that I have. I doesn't produce that nice "natural light" look.

I highly recommend off-camera flash method if you really want the 2'oclock catchlight, make sure to place it left of the subject (subject's left).

[autofocus]

An assistant can also hold a reflector up, somewhat above the subject's head, so it doesn't always have to be beneath the subject