Getting my feet wet

[harrysixtie7]

I posted an add on Craigslist offering free photography. To my surprise I recieved a ton of responses. I have been able to get arrange one shoot so far and I would like some feedback on my results. Very new at this, so be as harsh as necessary.

[mikedugganphotography]

Please keep in mind that I am not an expert at portraits so I can only say what I like and dislike. First question is what did the folks that you took the shots of think?

For me the first shot is nice but a little fill flash would have really decreased the shadows across their faces.

The second one looks a bit forced and the piece of the arch in the upper right distracts.

On the third I like the relaxed pensive pose but the limb in the upper right distracts.

The last one works well in B&W but would have liked to see a bit more of his face.

Good shots all around that with a little work could be even nicer

[AlexisM]

I just wanted to comment about the light. Specifically the difference between the first two. The first one was taken in full sun, and the faces have shadows, and there are no catchlights in the eyes.

But the second photo has (in my opinion) beautiful light. It's because they were shaded but still had the sunlight bouncing onto their faces from the sidewalk(?) Next time, really try to watch for open shade and use it. Carefully watch for shadows or bright spots on faces, and try to make sure that light is hitting the eyes.

Overall, I think that the family will like these images. Keep practicing!

[harrysixtie7]

Originally Posted by AlexisM

I just wanted to comment about the light. Specifically the difference between the first two. The first one was taken in full sun, and the faces have shadows, and there are no catchlights in the eyes.

But the second photo has (in my opinion) beautiful light. It's because they were shaded but still had the sunlight bouncing onto their faces from the sidewalk(?) Next time, really try to watch for open shade and use it. Carefully watch for shadows or bright spots on faces, and try to make sure that light is hitting the eyes.

Overall, I think that the family will like these images. Keep practicing!

Thanks a bunch. I really had no idea what I was doing, so we just tried a bunch of things. I have made some adjustments to the images in aperture and came up with some good results. I will post the new images later tonight.

Originally Posted by mikedugganphotography

Please keep in mind that I am not an expert at portraits so I can only say what I like and dislike. First question is what did the folks that you took the shots of think?

For me the first shot is nice but a little fill flash would have really decreased the shadows across their faces.

The second one looks a bit forced and the piece of the arch in the upper right distracts.

On the third I like the relaxed pensive pose but the limb in the upper right distracts.

The last one works well in B&W but would have liked to see a bit more of his face.

Good shots all around that with a little work could be even nicer

I know I need another flash, thats my next big purchase. I felt like I could find good lighting around but the face shadows are a little dark. I cropped down the 3rd one so that the limb is barely there. I think it helps. I had another shot with the same kid in the 4th, I will change it to B&W and resubmit with some others later.

Thanks to the both for the input, exactly what I was looking for.

[KathrynWilson]

Open shade. You just have to resist the urge to shoot in a pretty location if the light isn't good. Find a building that is casting some shade to stand beside, or maybe a tree large enough to create full shade with no dappled light. Combine that with turning the subject's back to the light source, then take your exposure from their faces. You look like you are off to a really good start. #3 is probably my favorite. In #4 I would say you may want to work on your Black & White conversion a little more - that looks a bit muddy.

[KathrynWilson]

I quickly edited #3 for you just to show it to you with his face brightened a bit:

[Palladius]

But the second photo has (in my opinion) beautiful light.

Am I a complete weirdo for preferring the light on the first one? It's probably my utter lack of subtlety, but I quite like the stark shadows and so on.

I really like the pose on the second one though...

[harrysixtie7]

Originally Posted by KathrynWilson

I quickly edited #3 for you just to show it to you with his face brightened a bit:

i cant see it

[Dianna M]

We could help you more if you would include your camera settings. Kathryn is right about the light. Your not going to get anything great when the sun is high in the sky. Early morning light or about 1 hour before sunset are best (sideways light). Other wise the shadows will just be too harsh. A great image in my opinion is ALL about the light! You have a great start, keep it up.