My First B & W Portrait

[judyg0313]

This is my first portrait I've done in black and white. How do I make it better?



Canon Rebel EOS t2i
f stop = f11
exposure time = 1/90 sec.
ISO speed = ISO - 100
Focal Length = 50 mm
WB = manual

[zona5101]

This is a nice shot but its too bad we have the hat blocking the eyes and throwing the strong shadow across the face. I do like how the side light from the sun rakes across his face to accent the texture. I might like it with a little more contrast - i'm having a hard time picking out anything white..white things look gray. Most of the right side appears to be underexposed. Generally try and avoid horizons bisecting the head(Same goes for trees and telephone poles emerging from the head)

[oldwolf]

I'd use a white reflector to bounce some light up under the hat to light up the eyes and/or soften that harsh shadow. I agree with zona that the side lighting really emphasizes the texture of the skin. The wrinkles show character.

[judyg0313]

I really appreciate your critiques. That is what I'm looking for is to find ways to make my pictures better. I agree about his hat but it is part of him and I have to learn to work around it. I tried to catch the sunlight on his face because I liked the way it added character too, And next time I will try a reflector to try and get rid of the shadow left by the hat. And I should have noticed the horizon. I will from now on. You guys gave me a lot to work with and I will be posting another soon. Much better than this one...thanks again.