BW Portrait Critique Please!

[HomeschoolWinner]

Camera: Nikon D80
Exposure: 0.1 sec (1/10)
Aperture: f/1.8
Focal Length: 50 mm
ISO Speed: 200
Exposure Bias: -1/2 EV
Flash: No Flash

I had a few lights and a mirror set up. I'd love some feedback on this.

[HomeschoolWinner]

Hi, sorry to bump this up I know it's probably annoying...maybe I should be more specific, this was the first time I really purposely manipulated the light in the shot. I'm very much a beginner, I just had a few lamps with the shades off and a small mirror to fill in around his eyes. The backdrop was just my bedroom curtain. I'd like some thoughts about the lighting but really anything at all would be helpful. This is one of my first attempts at portrait photography.

Thanks for looking! :)

[Benji]

Well I looked at it but in order to not discourage you I will just say nice first attempt.

Benji

[HomeschoolWinner]

Originally Posted by Benji

Well I looked at it but in order to not discourage you I will just say nice first attempt.

Benji

I can handle the truth please don't worry about hurting my feelings...as long as you are nice about it I can take it!

[DCBarner]

The thing that bugs me is the slight up turn of the camera. If the shot would have been dead on I would like it more. Focus and exposure is good.

Dane

[HomeschoolWinner]

Originally Posted by DCBarner

The thing that bugs me is the slight up turn of the camera. If the shot would have been dead on I would like it more. Focus and exposure is good.

Dane

That is really helpful. I will think ahead more next time I attempt this shot...he is my boyfriend so I get to practice a lot with him Thank you!

[willisbretz]

I agree with the first critique but have one additional suggestion. I would like to see some separation from the background.

You could do this by doing two things:
1.) You could light the backdrop and make it not as dark as his hair providing some depth to the shot.
2.) Instead of lighting the backdrop, you could point a light at the back of his head (this is a hairlight) that will give a light rimming effect on the edge of his head, hair, and shoulders depending on how you aim it.

However, this is all just a suggestion, but it's worth consideration.

Best of Luck,

Willis

[HomeschoolWinner]

Originally Posted by willisbretz

2.) Instead of lighting the backdrop, you could point a light at the back of his head (this is a hairlight) that will give a light rimming effect on the edge of his head, hair, and shoulders depending on how you aim it.

Interesting! I really like that idea. I will try that. Thanks!

[willisbretz]

No problem man. And here's another thing to keep in mind...

Depending on where you position your hair-light, you may need/want to use a snoot to make your light more directional. This will help keep the light from spilling into your lens and causing lens flare.

If you don't have one, here's a quick and easy way that you can make one on your own
DIY - Homemade Speedlite "Snoot" | DIYPhotography.net

- Willis

[HomeschoolWinner]

Originally Posted by willisbretz

If you don't have one, here's a quick and easy way that you can make one on your own :)
DIY - Homemade Speedlite "Snoot" | DIYPhotography.net

Very cool. DIY is totally up my alley. I have a lot of experimenting to do! Thanks again :)