Black and White Self Portrait Lighting Critique

[btafly]

Hi All,

I know the focus is slightly off in this one, I am working on that but what I would really like is critique on the Lighting on this this was taken with an external flash attached to the camera Difused and bounced of the ceiling

Details are

Camera; Olympus E520
F stop; F11
Exposure: 1/800th Sec
ISO: 400
Focal Length: 12mm


Thankyou Very Much for your help :-)

[djase1]

I really love the photo. It looks very candid and natural. The only thing that bothers me somewhat is the shadow from the hair over her right eye. Maybe it's just me. Otherwise, I do enjoy this a lot.

[btafly]

Thankyou Very Much for your comment i did not really notice the shaddow that muc but do now that you have pointed that out which is great, because i really like to see my photos through others eyes. I have the feeling a reflector would of been good sitting just in front of me on the ground to reflect the light comming from above, does anybody else agree with this?

[RLucas]

The lighting looks nice and even to me. About the only thing I would change is the black levels on the background. The creased backdrop is a little distracting. And djase already pointed out the shadow over your eye. It's not too harsh though.

[CaptainNH]

A beautiful self-portrait! I love the posing and lighting. Nicely exposed and great catchlights. Others have pointed out the shadow, not a show-stopper, but a reflector or 2nd strobe would help lighten it.

At laptop resolution, the focus doesn't look off.

Nice work, thanks for sharing.

[btafly]

Thankyou All for your wounderful comments, I really enjoyed this picture and love getting the hang of my new external flash.

[mikedugganphotography]

I like this shot a lot. You looked relaxed which is important. The catch light in your eyes is what drew me into the photo. Well done.