Farmer portrait

[AnonymousKiwi1]

This is my first post for critique - I hope I've followed all the rules correctly

Having just completed a fiftytwo project at the end of last year, I've embarked on a new one this year concentrating on portraits. My aim for the year is to improve my 'people shots'. Here's one that I took this weekend.




F-stop f/8
Exposure time 1/200sec
ISO speed ISO-200
Focal length 125mm


My question is regarding the processing of this picture. I feel it looks kinda wishy-washy. It's hard to describe. Lack of contrast perhaps? Tho I did attempt to fiddle about with the contrast/black levels. Maybe it is because the old gent is wearing washed out, pastely colours? Is it underexposed? The concept of "correct exposure" is one that I struggle with. - I am sorry this seems to be more than one question.

Do I have the exposure/contrast/processing 'correct'?

Here's a link to the shot SOOC

SOOC

[JFSanders]

Yeah, the lighting is a little flat. Taken about noon? This is one of those shots where a fast shutter speed and a fill flash with about f/8 would make him pop from the background and help you with the shadow on his face.

I would have tried F/8 : 1/200 and used TT-BL to fill at say -3 ev compensation and add in some negative ev in the camera as well. Put out the diffuser so that the head goes to 10mm and spreads out the light and you don't get a hot spot on his face. Maybe go f/11 if that doesn't get the light down low enough.

Nice character and I can see why you would photograph him.

Jim

[FlyingKiwiGirl]

Originally Posted by JFSanders

I would have tried F/8 : 1/200 and used TT-BL to fill at say -3 ev compensation and add in some negative ev in the camera as well. Put out the diffuser so that the head goes to 10mm and spreads out the light and you don't get a hot spot on his face. Maybe go f/11 if that doesn't get the light down low enough.

Jim, how do you do that! Rattle all that off by just looking at the pic, I'm in awe

Lisa, he is a beauty isn't he? Sheep farmer from the back blocks I wonder? To my unexpert eye he looks kinda pink all over but then I guess that's reflecting from his hat and shirt. Metro man with a lollipop.

[AnonymousKiwi1]

Originally Posted by JFSanders

Yeah, the lighting is a little flat. Taken about noon? This is one of those shots where a fast shutter speed and a fill flash with about f/8 would make him pop from the background and help you with the shadow on his face.

I would have tried F/8 : 1/200 and used TT-BL to fill at say -3 ev compensation and add in some negative ev in the camera as well. Put out the diffuser so that the head goes to 10mm and spreads out the light and you don't get a hot spot on his face. Maybe go f/11 if that doesn't get the light down low enough.

Nice character and I can see why you would photograph him.

Jim

Goodness, thanks Jim. You're wrong on the time - 9ish in the morning. What impresses me most is that about two months ago I would not have had clue what you're talking about. Now after much reading I understand, and I've just taken delivery of my very first light!.
Thanks again for your tips. I did wonder if lack of light might be the problem.
I am not sure about using the flash when engaging in what amounts to 'street' photography. How do people react to random strangers flashing in their faces?

[AnonymousKiwi1]

Originally Posted by FlyingKiwiGirl

Jim, how do you do that! Rattle all that off by just looking at the pic, I'm in awe

Lisa, he is a beauty isn't he? Sheep farmer from the back blocks I wonder? To my unexpert eye he looks kinda pink all over but then I guess that's reflecting from his hat and shirt. Metro man with a lollipop.

I'm picking that you're right. The event was the annual Lions club's Small Holders auction - guaranteed to bring out the grizzled and the weathered. I couldn't believe the lollipop either. At first I thought it was a cigarette. Must be a step up from a hay stalk!

[ccting]

i wander how it looks with split lighting done by tingeliM. but possible outdoors? nd filter? fp? f13? good to know 105mm..

Richard has similar shot but vry perfect shot in his tutorial. i think timimg is one of issue