Best time for a portrait outdoor shooting

[MindRaider]

Hi,

I am doing an outdoor photo-shooting for a model in a variety of locations / city and mountain.

I am still an amateur photographer and would appreciate some advice on the following:

1- What time is best - early morning, mid day in the shade or sunset.
2- I have basic gear - nikon d90 witha 55-200 mm lens - I think the lens is ok, but what is the ideal lens to shoot full body portraits?
3- I will use a reflector probably

Many thanks
Houssam

[Lightwriter]

Sunset. No doubt about it.

[SuperDan]

well its a very loaded question, but yes, as Lightwriter said... yes sunset time is the best...
but honestly... i find that shooting all different types of lighting is really what makes you think and learn instead of just shooting...
for example my last 3 sessions have all been at different times (i chose this too) as i wanted different looks to them

also, look for overcast days... not dreary dark but a slight overcast as then its your "giant softbox"

i am glad to see that you will be using a reflector... much needed

in regards to the lens... sure it will work, just make sure to check angles as you open up you might create some strange effects on legs and whatnot


good luck