Cambodian portrait

[Mr Jon]

I'm new to this forum, so be gentle with me.

I really enjoy taking portrait pictures, and I'm keen to improve my technique. I want to get as much right in camera as possible, so I'd be really grateful for any advice on composition or other aspects of portrait technique.

I often use the long end of my 17-85mm lens for portrait pictures, and I'm considering buying an 85mm prime (the Canon 85mm f/1.8 looks a good bet). Do you think this lens will provide a noticeable improvment in image quality?

This picture was taken outside the Lolei temple, one of the many Angkor temples in Cambodia. The temple itself is not the most impressive, but there's a monastery nearby, so it's a good place for people pictures.



Canon 400D with EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 lens at 85mm
Aperture: 5.6
Shutter speed: 1/250
ISO: 200

Post-production: I made a few small adjustments when converting the RAW file, and cropped the image to improve the framing.

There are more portrait pictures, from Vietnam and Cambodia, on my flickr page.

[LeeR]

My wife and I fell in love with Cambodia a few years ago. The country has suffered mightily over the last couple of decades but the people could not be sweeter or more beautiful. Your image brings back some great memories.
That being said, there is a glaring problem with this image and that is the blown out (over exposed) white space behind your subject. Keep in mind that our eyes are naturally drwn to the area of highest contrast and in your image that is a bit to the right of where you would like it. Aside from that this is very well done and a worthy first post.
I looked at your flickr page. I think I have shots of some of the same people! Wonderful place; my wife is going back this summer.

[Mr Jon]

Thanks for your feedback. I absolutely agree about Cambodia - it's one of the friendliest places I've visited. I'm lucky enough to live in Vietnam, so it's an easy place for me to go to. I'm hoping to go back for a longer trip later this year.

I know what you mean about the highlights. I like the way that the arch frames the monk's head, but the bright white light does detract from this.

Thanks again,

Jon

[Federico Presti]

I agree with LeeR, and I also feel it has a slight yellowish tingue, but maybe it's just me.

Thanks for sharing!