My First Model Shoot

[roscoepcg]

I recently did a shoot for work with my first ever model. Shoot was indoors using 2x300watt strobes. One camera left @ 45% and the other camera right @ same.

Exif info
Camera: eos 450D
Exposure: 1/125
Aperture: F 7.1
Focal length: 42mm
ISO: 100

I have also done some minor tweaks in Pse 8 on Hue/Saturation and Brightness/Contrast.

Any advice as to framing, lighting and also Model direction/Instructions would be more than helpful. As this is my first attempt at portraiture don't be afraid to say what you think.

Second. the shoot was in our gallery so the ambient lighting was a combination of flourescent and incandescent bulbs. Any advice on setting White balance for this would be help ful as well. ie Do I use AWB, custom or set for the flashes?

Edit:This is a shoot for a rug seller.

[windrider86]

The stance to me is awkward, just doesnt feel very natural. She's standing more away from you, try having her face more outward and place her hand closer to you.
The color of her shirt is clashing heavily with the background.

[Rentham]

The model looks very stiff, almost sheepish. That could be a product of her being an new model, your direction/interaction, or both. The lighting is even and flat. I generally agree with Syl Arena... to create interesting light you need to create interesting shadow. The background definitely isn't working for me. It is extremely busy. Some times you can pull that off with various large damask patterns, but this oriental rug thing just doesn't do it for me. It is better than a wrinkled bed sheet, though.

I think a simple head shot or beauty look against a plain background or wall would have suited this model well. When in doubt, simplify.

[WooD]

I agree with the above comments.

The rug, and her hand on it, killed it for me.

I'm drawn more to her hand than her face.

Still a great start for a first time.

[Bruce A]

I agree with the others, she looks like she's selling rugs. I think a plain background and a more relaxed pose would be much better. Google model poses and I'm sure you'll get some ideas.

[roscoepcg]

Actually she is selling rugs. This is for a rug merchant.But i get the idea about the relaxed pose. Thanks.

[EOBeav]

Maybe it's just me, but this looks like it's underexposed.

[JFSanders]

Roscoe, If this is a product shot and she is selling the rug her hand should be palm up and pointing toward the product, presenting it. Like the Price is Right girls do. Also, she should be at a 45 degree angle facing open to the camera so that you don't get the stark shadows from the strap portion of her dress. This should be a almost floor to ceiling shot if the rug is the main subject. The verticals in the rug should be vertical.

Jim

[Rentham]

Originally Posted by roscoepcg

Actually she is selling rugs. This is for a rug merchant.But i get the idea about the relaxed pose. Thanks.

In that case, I'd think about some lifestyle type shots if that would fit within the parameters of the assignment.