First time family portraits (First impressions)

[BIRD06]

I mainly shoot action Photography, Drag Racing. So I'm new to "People shots" the family you see actually works at the track and they wanted me to take some portraits shots for them.Being eager to learn I followed them to Berry College to do so. My equipment at the time ,Nikon D5000 18-55mm & 55-200mm, pop up flashed used. I'm considering a SB-600 speedlight and maybe some reflectors to improve my shots.

Let me know what you think, I'm wanting first impression, good or bad. Any advice will be taking seriously !


48mm
1/160
f/8
pop up flash used

Link to the set
Berry College - a set on Flickr

[cherrygirl]

Not a bad try! My only advice is something I live by...I try to avoid shots that look up at people...that is usually not a flattering angle.

[BIRD06]

Thanks cherrygirl,
I tried not to go too low in this shot,just enough to hide a distracting background. Does this shot seem too low to you...the "not flattering angle" ?

[cherrygirl]

The woman on the top left (and maybe the man next to her) might not like it too much. Just my opinion. I know I would hate it if my photo showed a double chin!

[BIRD06]

Ahh, haha I see that now ! I will remember this next time. See there..I learned something
Thanks

[willisbretz]

A fill-flash other light source would help them pop out of the shot a little more too. They seem a little under exposed.

Since you probably can't go back and shoot again, maybe try selecting the family in Photoshop and brightening them up a bit using Levels. Just a suggestion for you to play with.

[BIRD06]

Yes, most shots did come out underexposed. I had a hard time trying to balance ambient light with the pop up flash. I believe I need to invest in a good speed light...well I know so haha.

Thanks for the input