First Try at Portrait

[piratepix]

Hi there. I am an amateur photographer who just bought an inexpensive duo of shadowbox lights this week. Here is the result of my first sitting with a willing test subject. I'm looking forward to any comments and suggestions. Thanks!



More examples from shoot at http://www.flickr.com/photos/piratepix2/

Canon EOS30

[daddyoproductions]

I like the variety of poses you've done, and most of the shots look like the focus is good. I think for the lighting (from what I've read anyway), that it is rather flat. If you are using two lights, you turn one down lower than the other, to give some shadows and dimension to the face. Unless you just want a flat look, which is sometimes used with children's portraits to make them look vintage. I am still learning with my lights, too. I have been shooting natural light this summer, but will have to spend more time on lights now that fall is here. Keep practicing with different settings, and write down what you did so you can know what works and what doesn't. And pass on anything that worked well Oh, and of course read Strobist.com, starting with the 101s as he's got a lot of good info about ambient light and such, which is good even if you're not using a flash for lighting. Look forward to seeing your next bunch!

~C

p.s. I think maybe avoid cutting off the head so much...but again, if I'm talking out of my you know what, I'm sure someone will correct me

[windrider86]

Please take a peek at the guidelines and get familiar with what should be included in your posts. Thank you!

[sheila3]

Nice shots. Cant help at all with lighting as I am just learning. First impressions though...
great poses, seems very natural. I do agree that some are cut a bit tight. Thanx for sharing!

[piratepix]

Thanks so much! These are for acting headshots, so the crops were more aggressive than I normally would do. HAHA. Perhaps I attacked them too aggressively! Thanks also for the tips and hints on lighting. I will follow your lead and read the material suggested. Great idea about keeping a log. Will do. You guys are awesome!