Shooting with Available Light – Lifestyle Portraiture
In this post Véronique da Silva from www.dasilvafoto.com shares more tips on how to take portraits with available light.
One recurring question I often get asked is, “Do you use flash?”. My answer is “I prefer not to”. I was trained commercially, using some of the best flash equipment on the planet, and I know how to use them. But I choose not to, for the most part. Life offers us some of the most beautiful lighting and it is literally up to us to step up to the challenge of unpredictability, to seek it and to use it properly. As a natural light photographer, I do make use of reflectors and diffusers to play with the available light and tweak it to my liking.
I am a portrait photographer, and I have noticed that the average person does not feel comfortable in a studio setting with lights flashing at them. It becomes overwhelming and does take over and interfere with the image capture. My general rule is if I can photograph them outside or in their element with minimal additional lighting, I will do so. The result will inevitably be better.
Here are some tips for shooting with natural light!
When shooting outside in full daylight, many people feel tempted to either use flash or place their subjects in open shade. Yes, it is true, open shade makes for easy light, but the more interesting light, the shadows, the sparkle, lies in the sun! Push your comfort level by stepping out of the shade, and shoot tons! Photograph in full daylight, at all hours of the day. Shooting mid-day will be the most challenging, but be creative! Look for interesting shadows and shapes, and play with them. Stop and analyze a scene before shooting and look for interesting vantage points that enable the light to play its amazing tricks.
When photographing people in daylight, my recommendation is to begin by shooting with the sunlight in back of your subjects. Most people will squint in full sun and/or blink frequently. By back lighting your subjects, you will allow them to be more comfortable and in return they most certainly will be more cooperative!
What happens with blown-out skies? The answer to that is “nothing”! There really is nothing wrong with exposing for the subject and letting the rest go where it goes. Perfectly lit images (with detail in the whites and shadows) have their place, but I find it can be restrictive and really unnecessary when photographing people (and trust me, I LOVE the perfect Ansel Adams print!).
With the use of reflectors, you can minimize the contrast and reclaim some detail in the background. A silver reflector will add a nice clean sharpness to the image (I really love a silver reflector when shooting professional head-shots), but remember that it is a strong reflector and you do not want to blind your subject! I use a simple white reflector most of the time to slightly open up the shadows but keep the charm of back lighting. I also love playing with sun flares! They are completely unpredictable but can be so lovely! It goes without saying that to make the most out of the use of reflectors you will need extra hands – this is when a helper comes in very handy!
When using flash, I prefer using it as a secondary light, letting the ambient or surrounding light play the main role. When shooting interiors, I will bounce the flash off the ceiling or off my handy reflector, and create a softer light than shooting forward straight off the camera. It is also a much more flattering light. I typically under-expose the flash 1.5-3 stops and slow down the shutter to let the beautiful ambient light filter in.
As with everything, practice is a must! Play around, and don’t let intimidation or the unknown guide your decision – you’ll surprise yourself and definitely expand your skills! Most importantly, have fun!
About the Author: Véronique da Silva is a Portrait & Lifestyle Photographer.
Visit her site at www.dasilvafoto.com.
107 Responses to “Shooting with Available Light – Lifestyle Portraiture” - Add Yours
September 22nd, 2009 at 1:42 am
Great tips – thanks – I love the natural light portraits.
One note for anyone listening and willing – can anyone write an article on how to direct your model (not necessarily a professional one!). I do have a willing daughter to practise on but I’m never sure what to ask her to do/where to look/ what pose to hold etc etc.
Thanks
TAD
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:37 am
Tad,
There are some really great books on the subject. You might start with Jeff Smith’s “Posing techniques for Location Portrait Photography”.
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:37 am
Thank you for this! I’m a natural light photographer and found some of these tips to be things I never thought of before.
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:39 am
Great timing on this article. I was just looking at some great shots the other day and thinking “what do these have that my photos lack?”, and when it came down to it, the difference was that the shot was exposed for the subject correctly and the skies were completely blown. Every one of the shots looked amazing too. I’m very interested to try out this technique, since it really lends itself to exellent shots (the sun is a pretty nice light).
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:51 am
Great post! I think that making people feel comfortable in front of the camera is 90% of the final image.
I often bounce light in with a reflector but end up with people squinting unless it is from quite a bit off the shot angle. Do you use reflectors much or do you try to make your shot work without them as much as possible?
September 22nd, 2009 at 3:27 am
I agree, tips on directing the model would be great! Thanks
September 22nd, 2009 at 3:33 am
Couldn’t find any non anorexic subjects? All these shots seem way too staged. Takes away from the article. Also the poor quality of the shots takes away from the article. I thought the difference between a pro (you) and an novice (me) was knowing what is a good shot.
September 22nd, 2009 at 3:49 am
Ouch!
Pretty harsh post Scott. I don’t completely disagree. Available light to me means indoor with no flash. These are all simple daylight images. Reflectors or not.
But on the other hand, how about you post a link to some images you claim beat these?
September 22nd, 2009 at 3:51 am
Wow. Scott, you certainly a pro at being rude. If you don’t like an article, why don’t you just move on instead of acting like a jerk? I think Véronique’s shots look great.
September 22nd, 2009 at 4:19 am
Hi everyone,
Ouch is right! Thanks for your comments. I am not quite sure where you are going with your comments Scott? Presumably you did not like the images posted which is completely fine, but the vagueness and spitefulness of your comment is confusing! Staged? Anorexic? I would truly be interested in seeing some comparison shots, perhaps to guide me better next time.
In my view, available light is available light, indoor or out. I have plenty of indoor images using available light… Many of the images shown above have been tweaked with the use of reflectors or diffusers.
My next post will be some tips on directing models or non models that works for me.
Hope I have answered your questions or concerns,
Véronique
September 22nd, 2009 at 4:27 am
As I’m a big coward when it comes to flash, I always enjoy a good portrait using an available light.
Here is an example of a photo I took in Barcelona – http://www.ilanbresler.com/2009/06/flower.html – A snapshot of two tourists, using only available light. I kinda like it
September 22nd, 2009 at 4:28 am
Lovely post, thank you.
September 22nd, 2009 at 4:40 am
Great post and fabulous photography. I love how you play with the lighting that is available and I think the photos you posted show how different natural lighting can be interpreted. Speaking of cowards, someone’s comments are totally inappropriate.
September 22nd, 2009 at 4:41 am
Greg N – thanks will check that one out and Veronique I look forward to your tips on directing.
As a side note I have always enjoyed popping into DPS and reading all the great tips – I have learnt a lot here. However, what is it with all the sniping and rude comments?? I just don’t see the point of these at all. People have taken the time to write these articles and pass on their tips and thoughts and if you don’t agree with them that’s fine but I have to say I am disgusted at how personal some of the comments can be to the authors.
I’m a hobby snapper and this site always seemed to be geared to taking away the snobbery and elitist side of photography, making everyone feel welcome with no question being too stupid. But, to me anyway, it is being spoiled by these needless digs and I wouldn’t be surprised if the atmosphere here at times puts off lots of beginners from contributing or commenting. I suppose if you can’t say something nice and/or constructive don’t say anything at all would be my stance. Just felt it needed saying!
TAD
September 22nd, 2009 at 5:51 am
These are undeniably good images, but would Veronique consider releasing the layered PSD file, just low resolution so we can see how much post production needed to be done to the pictures? The flesh tones are too smooth and the eyes pop more than I can believe for a “natural light” shoot. So when I assume there’s that much work done, I assume more work has happened.
Sorry, but I work in advertising and I’m a cynic
September 22nd, 2009 at 6:26 am
“I thought the difference between a pro (you) and an novice (me) was knowing what is a good shot.”
Yes, it does. Those are all good shots. You’re just an ass unless you can demonstrate that you’re better.
September 22nd, 2009 at 6:40 am
Actually I am avid flash user. But somehow you have convinced me that natural light can make good portraits!! Well done!
September 22nd, 2009 at 6:43 am
some posts are not meant to be constructive or even just opinionated.. they’re meant to be inflammatory.. best just to not acknowledge them because dialogue is not what those types of posters are after.. they’re just looking to get as big of a response from as many people possible.. so don’t give it to them
anyway, amazing picture.. amazing tips..
September 22nd, 2009 at 6:53 am
I enjoy reading the DPS articles and always learn something. I read it daily. I have seen a lot of rude comments that aren’t helpful at all but what I haven’t seen is articles from anyone making those rude comments.
September 22nd, 2009 at 7:55 am
Mark Kenny: Actually there really isn’t that much cosmetic work done on the skin at all! Most of these images were done with the collaboration of an awesome make-up artist, Erin Froese: http://www.erinfroese.com. Without a doubt, make-up is key! And as for the eyes, that’s all reflector baby! I actually do not do very much manipulating of images (although everything is relative…). I’d love to show you my photoshop files – come over for coffee one day
September 22nd, 2009 at 8:12 am
Scott is a troll in the Internet sence of the word. The best thnig everyone can do to not encourage his behaviour is to ingnore his post.
They are on every web forum.
September 22nd, 2009 at 9:01 am
I’d loveee to see your reflector set up for some of your images! I love natural light, especially since I’m a poor college student that can’t afford to buy any off-the-camera flash.
Gorgeous work, very inspiring!
September 22nd, 2009 at 9:49 am
score
September 22nd, 2009 at 11:26 am
Beautiful shots!
Who cares how much post was done anyway? I dare someone to step outside with a model, in available light, and recreate these great shots, and spend as much time on the post processing as you’d like.
I’m no pro photographer, but good enough, and definitely good enough at photoshop to know that you simply cannot recreate good lighting in post. And of course, subject matter, poses, makeup, location, etc.
If anything, using flash is a bit of ‘cheating’, yes? (and I love flash too, don’t get me wrong).
and yes, don’t feed the trolls.
September 22nd, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Thank you for your posting. I am just starting in shooting some friends for fun and love the natural light and settings. I agree that directing the subject is a talent and tips would be greatly appreciated. Your pictures are great and give a ‘real’ sense of being.
September 22nd, 2009 at 1:15 pm
Why are there Haters on this site? There is definitely a place for everyone’s opinions, but there is no need to spew negativity just for fun. No one appreciates that.
I thought the photos were great examples of shooting in natural light. Thanks, Veronique, for your article. I enjoyed reading it.
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Véronique~ I was curious if the next time you do a session like this if you could bring along another photographer. I would love to see the image set up! I <3 natural light and I try to use it AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE!
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Thank you for the inside tips!
September 22nd, 2009 at 3:16 pm
Fantastic post Veronique! Great insight into the ‘secret sauce’ of how you get such stunning results. Love your work, more posts please!
September 22nd, 2009 at 3:18 pm
being dare to break the rules might or might not get u a satisfying result.
overexposed or not, only the photographer knows.
bcos it’s totally up to them.
September 22nd, 2009 at 4:59 pm
I love your photos! Wow! Tried to subscribe to your blog, but your feed button didn’t work for me. Please don’t let the negative people get you down.
September 22nd, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Excellent article and tips, Véronique, and great shots: go for more!
September 22nd, 2009 at 6:25 pm
Great pictures, great post.
Think things on this site (for me anyway) should be not TOO technical and above all should inspire us to go out and shoot.
10/10.
September 22nd, 2009 at 11:58 pm
I stopped writing for DPS because it was starting to get overrun with trolls. Remember, those who write for this site are not paid to do so. Moreover, those reading all these valuable tips are not charged for the privilege. Anyone, troll or not, being mean or spiteful just because you were given something for free and it isn’t what you wanted is small and petty. It does seem to have toned down a little recently, except for the occasional outburst from jerkholes like Scott. Though even the more well-meaning people sometimes have a tendency to be critical of the posts they don’t like. Remember, you’re getting all this stuff for free people!
I’ve seen several of Véronique’s articles and think she does a good job. Keep it up!
September 23rd, 2009 at 12:02 am
You may well be right, Jeffrey, but your choice of language is hardly appropriate. I sometimes think it’s a pity DPS forum postings aren’t moderated.
September 23rd, 2009 at 1:29 am
Hi Veronique! BEAUTIFUL images! I’m a writer for this site and you should expect rude comments. I have to bite my tongue (fingers) constantly but have to remain professional. The most rude comments come from people who aren’t even photographers, it seems. Keep your chin up and ignore the haters. Beautiful post.
September 23rd, 2009 at 2:53 am
Are there no moderators for article comments? A few volunteers could keep a site like this real pleasant, easily.
September 23rd, 2009 at 5:35 am
Wow Veronique, that much detail in natural light is quite something. Maybe it’s just living in dark northern Europe that’s stopping me getting such good shots and not my simple lack of talent
Here’s an example of ‘some’ work we do without natural light. A stadium shot, with a studio shot, another stock stadium shot, with some 3D, with some more studio shots and another couple of stadium shots, and a whole host of post-production…
http://www.180aroundtheworld.com/UTurn/reel_adidas_CA.html
It’s nice to see real photography, even digital and less post work still happening.
And folks, just ignore trolls, simply just ignore them.
September 23rd, 2009 at 6:33 am
My set-up is so simple it hurts! I have an assistant hold the reflector in the way I like the light to reflect at the moment and then I play around! The exciting part of shooting with little or no setup is that you are free to move around – simply instruct whoever is helping you to follow
My 5 year old loves to assist me with the “big sun” as she calls it. I also have some reflectors that I can set up on tripods, but I deliberately kept these shots away from this post. For the photographer working on a budget – try using foamcore! You can buy a large sheet and cut it into manageable (larger is better) sizes and voila! You have a reflector! Please keep posting links to your wonderful images! I love looking at your work! Have fun!
September 23rd, 2009 at 7:30 am
Great article thanks. Hurrah for someone striking out and not getting hung up if the sky / background blows out: “What happens with blown-out skies? The answer to that is “nothing”! There really is nothing wrong with exposing for the subject and letting the rest go where it goes.”
September 23rd, 2009 at 8:50 am
Lovely work, beautiful images and thank you for putting yourself out there for the rest of us to learn from and enjoy!
My mother used to say if you don’t have anything nice to say then don’t say anything at all….SCOTT. Ever try using some tact in your approach? Maybe yoga, serenity now…
September 23rd, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Lovely photos – and so what if they are “staged”
Veronique – what size reflector do you use ? I saw a few on ebay which are all the way from 22″ to 44″. Appreciate any thoughts on what is a sensible size to use for outdoor portraits.
Thanks for the tips!
September 23rd, 2009 at 1:25 pm
I loved this! Thank you! The next time someone sticks me in the squinty sun for a photo I’ll have something to say about it. Ha! lol
September 24th, 2009 at 1:01 am
so, you spot meter the light from your subject’s face?
September 24th, 2009 at 1:09 am
“so, you spot meter the light from your subject’s face?”
I’ll tell you what i do but that doesn’t mean it’s right….
I come in close on the model until their face fills my viewfinder. Then I adjust my settings until the camera says it’s ‘right’ (Side note: my camera and I never agree on what’s ‘right’ but it’s a start) and when I back up I can ignore the camera’s internal meter because it’s trying to expose for the whole scene and I just care about the model.
September 24th, 2009 at 2:03 am
@jaideep: The bigger the reflector, the more beautiful and embracing the reflected light will be. My main reflector disk is a little bit smaller that my arm span – and then you can ark it to tweak the light just the way you like it!
@amir: Yes I do use spot metering on the face, and then manually adjust all settings to reflect the look I want.
September 24th, 2009 at 11:01 am
Many thanks. Your pictures are very nice, look so professional.
September 25th, 2009 at 2:54 am
Excellent article and good tips. I personally do not care for “sun spots” in the frame, but that is a personal thing. I also love the back lighting as you show it, which can act like a hair light among other things. The angle of the sun is why many people prefer early mornings and late afternoons for their natural light portraits.
In portraiture, it also helps to have an attractive looking person (like the models shown), although everyone has their own beauty… it is up to the photographer to find it and bring it out. It is amazing how much the angle of the face can affect the overall look of a person.
Thanks for a great article!
September 25th, 2009 at 4:54 am
Great article Veronique! It conferms what I have been learning since getting into photography is that there is light and different ways of using it, and also know the rules…then break them!
P.S. Scott, The D in DPS stands for Digital, not Drama.
September 25th, 2009 at 5:29 am
thanks, lovely photographs
amir
September 25th, 2009 at 5:37 am
Awesome work. I appreciate all the how to’s on this sight. I also appreciate having it given to me for FREE. When making negative feedback one should think about him/herself before posting it…..are you perfect? NOT!
I have a newly born photography business & I must say I have already learned that everyone tastes are different. What I may love & find amazing the next person may not. Thanks again for the great photos. Absolutely beautiful & tasteful. God Bless!
September 25th, 2009 at 6:47 am
These are some very nice shots and have given me some nice ideas. Thanks for sharing!
My only complaint is that the first model is very beautiful, but the shot of her without a bra is awful! Her first image made me think she was young and vibrant, probably in her mid-30′s. Once my eyes caught her sagging breasts, her entire being aged a good 10-15 years!
If you plan on throwing modesty out the window, at least do so in a manner that flatters your model.
September 25th, 2009 at 9:56 am
To each his own, and I hope not to publicly embarrass myself here, but I thought the use of a thin white t-shirt, with her arms posed just right, and strong back-lighting, made that shot wonderfully intriguing. Great use of natural lighting and the feminine form.
And if she is in her 40′s, wow, that model looks amazing!
September 25th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
Thank you Veronique for taking the time to write such a great article.Your images are professional and stunning. I agree that a good make-up artist is invaluable. I look forward to reading more of your articles : )
September 25th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Great article, Veronique. I also can’t stand to use flash when outdoors, but it makes it trickier. On the plus side, we get shadows!
I was volunteering in a very poor village in Mexico and shot a few of the children… this one I use a hanging ceiling to get the shadow covering the top of his head, while the light source (the sun, thank you) was still above him, giving us catchlights: http://www.flickr.com/photos/robinryan/2395898321/in/set-72157601769220969/
This one was inside of a cathedral, and as such as low-speed… I put it on a pew and thankfully the ancient priest didn’t move: http://www.flickr.com/photos/robinryan/1953017247/in/set-72157601769220969/
thanks for putting this together, veronique
September 25th, 2009 at 8:07 pm
Excellent work! Veronique
I have been in the business for over 25 years mostly custom printing
Been extensively shooting for the last 5 years mostly studio portraits
Loved your shots in natural light! Yes good make up artist and model
help but being able to communicate with your model is very important
and most of all the right eye to capture your image in the camera.
Keep it up!!!
September 25th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
refreshed by your postings, am agreeable that available light portraiture would be much equipped and complimented with white reflectors in lieu of the flash unit/s.
September 26th, 2009 at 1:45 am
Great tips on available light shooting!
One that can really make or break an available light shot is composition, and you’ve got some fantastic compositions here! Kudos.
Personally, I like the shot with the nipples showing through the shirt. I think it’s artsy and edgy. I can see why some might now care for it, but that’s the beauty of being a photographer. You get to express YOUR vision!
Matt
September 26th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
Great post. Véronique has some awesome shots. Anyone who didn’t go to her site should check it out.
September 26th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Nice portraits! I like the second because you can see her nipples, but the first is better because she has a nice smile. Her facial expression in the second isn’t as good.
I too have been prone to under-exposing a person or object to keep the clouds from clipping. I didn’t do this in 2004-2007… it’s something I started doing in 2008 because I was becoming a “better” photographer. And now I’m undoing that! Let the sky wash out if it isn’t the subject. Great tip.
September 27th, 2009 at 12:03 am
Thanks again Veronique you inspired me and I tried your tips: http://www.flickr.com/photos/elizabethhalford/3955104195/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/elizabethhalford/3955104053/in/photostream/
September 27th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
You have commercial grade photos! I bet many have asked for your professional services. I saw your website and I’m impressed. I wish you could share some of the settings in any of the photos in this article.
Do you really prefer to shoot B/W?
Rick
September 28th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
I enjoyed your tips and your images work nice.
September 30th, 2009 at 1:43 am
Elizabeth Halford – simply gorgeous images! WOW!
October 1st, 2009 at 10:40 am
The article is informative and inspiring.Mid day back lit portaiture is tricky against environment.Washout is a common phenomena.For careful handling more details on exposure consideration may be given.
October 1st, 2009 at 3:16 pm
Veronique: I love, love, love how you advocate keeping a shoot simple. I think too many photographers are hung up on the gear and post production and forget the art. Cheers!
October 20th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
First of all i’d like to say i think Veronique is very tallented and have seen a number of her postings on this site and have found all of them to be of a high standard. I think she comes across in a positive, understandable way that everyone can follow along with, without it going way over your head and off into la-la land.
Second of all on all the posts i’ve seen there has been one or two shall we say “RUDE” comments off a very small minority who i think are feeling a little green and twisted with jealousy. Obviously they feel inferior and intimidated by Veroniques work . Pond life is of superior inteligence to the likes of these individuals.
I know how it feels, i haven’t been involved in photograpy long but i love it with a passion and recently have begun to feel more confident and proud of what i’ve achieved over the past twelve months, i posted a picture on a site and recieved a cutting comment about my blown out sky, this left me questioning my ability and my confidence took a knock.
But now i’m thinking if Veronique can be bad mouthed and her work is simply stunning, then i don’t mind these individuals and maybe should find it an honour really. Veronique I for one think your a star and love your tutorials and advice.
Thankyou.
October 30th, 2009 at 6:28 am
Magnificent images. I’d love to know how Veronique accomplishes such clarity and beauty in her images. I’m really jealous. <3 <3 <3 Thanks for the tips!!!
November 28th, 2009 at 8:22 am
Véronique da Silva, you’re either a very subtle sarcastic woman or one of the most polite professionals I have ever come across. Cheers!
I appreciated your advice which I have truly been looking for with regards to non-flash photography. I have tried flash but I prefer my natural light / available light shots, even at concerts. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Thank you again…
http://www.flickr.com/photos/40322209@N07/sets/72157622763522445/
December 8th, 2009 at 3:51 pm
I generally turn off flash too.. (ok that’s my excuse, I ain’t no pro with lighting
) … and the first advice I give to my friends with P&S who asks me for some tips after seeing my image is… “Ok, let’s start by tuning off that flash…” I hope I am not hurting the economy.
December 12th, 2009 at 4:56 pm
Beautiful work!
February 5th, 2010 at 1:25 pm
Excellent article! Very informative and the images are absolutely gorgeous! I hope you don’t mind that I am linking this article to my website.
May 8th, 2010 at 4:23 am
Great write up and some very interesting tips. I too would like to try them but am interested in your settings for the pictures.
~ NewsWorthy ~
June 10th, 2010 at 7:48 am
Please show mercy. First time im doin this, so i’m not sure how I’m notified if there are any responses to any of my questions. I’ll save this page an open it up again. Hope it works. Love the fact that you so gladly share your experience with everyone. Truly means alot to someone like me.
Very productively interactive site, mus say.
Doing mostly fashion. Buying my First flash, NIKON SB800(2nd hand).
I’m using a NikonD50
How do my camera settings communicate with my flash settings? Do I adjust my camera settings then adjust/select flash settings separately? Example once I’ve set my iso, aperture, shutter speed and taken the meter reading, do I then select my flash settings.
Could u help me understand a basic flash setup procedure e.g. set flash mode, then select flash speed…? If I’m making any sense.
I’ve learned that the focal length that my camera is on, affects the output of my flash?
How does me changing foul length affet my flash output?
Quote, “don’t shoot too fast cos u’ll blow up flash because all of the power u asking it to pump out by pushing it 3 full stops and zooming flash head to its max at 105mm .Which is another great feature.” ? I think I read this here. What does this mean? Sounds important.
Quote this site,” I set my flash to high sync speed mode so I could shoot at 500th shutter speed. Why shoot at such a high shutter speed? So I could capture a nice blue sky and not blow out the background. My Fstop was 6.3 ISO was 160. Now when u use such a fast shutter speed you obviously need to demand more power from your flash. Also using an Fstop of 6.3 demands more power. So I set my flash exposure compensation to plus 3Stops ! I also set my zoom head on the flash to 80mm instead of letting it set itself to 44mm automatically. As u can imagine I was asking my flash to do a lot and demanding a lot of power. So I had a quantam batter pack attached to give it the flash and extra power it needed.”
I‘m lost after, “Also using an Fstop of 6.3 demands more power”. Flash xposure compensation to 3stops? Zoom head? Set itself? How does setting itself ffect anything? Do I need a battery pack for my flash?
Quote,” I then set the flash to ETTL and high speed sync mode, dialed up the flash exposure 3 whole stops and zoomed the flash head to 105mm. I was standing about 8feet from the model with an 85mm lens on the camera. Now this is the awesome part! I then set my shutter speed to 1/1250th of a second! My Fstop was 4.5 and my ISO was 200. I shot away and this was the beautiful result even under the midday sun.
The high speed sync mode is my favourite feature. I now am not limited to syncing at only 1/1250th of a second. I can capture details in my background and control my contrast by using a very fast shutter speed.” Huh? What does dialing up flash exposure mean? How and why would u zoom a flash head? But could’nt a high sync mode of 1/1250th of a second overheat the flash?
Being able to zoom the flash head from 24mm all the way to 105mm gives the photographer so much more control and room to play. How?
Buying an SB800. I’m worried about it overheating. Heard that if u take too many shots in a row it could overheat. Apparently I’m spose to wait 2-3mins after doing 30 shots? Does this mean that need to pace my use of the flash/ allow it to recover?
I don’t want it to overheat or melt down (
Since theD50 does not cater for the commander mode, the only way(cost effectively) I have to shoot off camera is sync cable. I need a sync extension cable, cos most of the ones I’ve seen in the retail shops are very short. I’m Looking for a 10m or more at least.
What is high sync speed?
I’m quoting,” how to shoot wide open apertures with flash and hi speed sync”
What does this mean?
How do u keep your focus locked on subject, when the subject is moving ? focus tracking, and how does this work basically.
How do u set your camera flash to light your subject/model relative to background ?
Could one take meter reading off subject and then adjust setting within 3F stops ?
Quote, “At mid day you’re probably gonna get an F/16 which is very bright. So that means your flash needs an output at least F/11 and that is asking a lot from an off camera flash.” What in the world does this mean?
February 17th, 2011 at 7:22 am
This is a great article, without a doubt and I appreciate that Victoria shares her passion with us. People like Victoria inspire me to make the effort to take better shots, Elizabeth Halford and other contributors are to be thanked for taking the time they could spend with paying customers to share their talent.
February 17th, 2011 at 7:42 am
Hi
I always prefer to shoot with available light when at all possible. Sometimes you just cant setup an off camera flash, haul a huge softbox or diffuser around. This shot, for example, was taken during an on and off overcast day and turned out pretty nice without much fancy lighting. Some exposure compensation was applied to the RAW file in Post, but not much.
Piercing Blue, Trash the Dress: http://t.co/vu10c5e
Regards, Erik
Kerstenbeck Photographic Art
February 17th, 2011 at 7:49 am
Thanks for an excellent article! Great photographs too. I really enjoyed reading this and looking at your work.
February 17th, 2011 at 9:53 am
May I suggest some moderation on the comments. Things said by trolls, aka Scot, is simple distasteful, and takes focus away from the article and real reason everyone reads it.
My 2 cents.
February 17th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
Glad to catch this repost, portrait photography is something I really need to learn more about.
The closest I usually get to portrait photography are candids like this.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lendog64/5282689491/
February 17th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
Thanks for the post, good to know that it doesn’t take huge amounts of money and heavy equipment to get some good shots!
Shooting against the sun is great fun, but you have to try&error a lot.
This is my attempt:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/27430283@N07/4333208526/
February 17th, 2011 at 8:49 pm
Thank you Veronique and all the DPS writers for being so generous with your time and knowledge.
When baby #2 is a bit older I plan on making photography my day job (not just the medium for my art) and the information on this site has been invaluable, helping me research and prepare for when I become a pro photographer.
Thanks again for continuing to motivate and inspire us xx
February 17th, 2011 at 9:17 pm
Thanks for the article. I also can’t wait for your next post about directing models. Cheers!
February 18th, 2011 at 3:46 am
Veronique, Photography is subjective, right? What one person likes, another one doesn’t. I think your images are wonderful. I too prefer to shoot in natural light, I appreciate your tips, and the fact that a blown out sky is ok, when your subject is properly lit. I agree!
Thanks!
February 18th, 2011 at 4:34 am
Perhaps just a suggestion. When there is nudity in the articles, explicit or subtle, it limits whom I can forward the link to and if I can share it on Facebook. I am talking about the first photograph in this article. Call me conservative, but I cannot share it with my colleagues at work, for example. If it is easily avoidable, making the articles more sharing-comfortable would make them more popular. Thank you.
February 18th, 2011 at 5:01 am
scott is actually inadvertently posting a positive comment when he says “All these shots seem way too staged.” Life’s a stage honey!
Véronique da Silva –> Great article! Now we can all relax and stop trying too hard and let the natural light fill the frame which I love to instinctually do. And now I know I have a friend out there doing the same without judgment or reprisal from me.
Always always be yourself and trust it no matter what other people say.
February 18th, 2011 at 5:44 am
I love working with natural light and although I am not a professional as such, I do get some some photographic portraiture work. I love your work Véronique and your tips and comments. It is disheartening when someone makes comments that are completely ignorant and not worth while printing. Constructive criticism is one thing but the other is not worth reading or taking notice of. Anyway I have always wondered about photographing in the middle of summer and during the midday hours and the general view about the harshness of the light and the problems with contrast etc. Yet so many people are out and about photographing various subjects during these times, that surely there would be a way round the problems and with your tips I believe there is. I will certainly be trying to photograph portraits during the sunny summer days and try out your tips, after all I have seen countless wedding albums with photos taken down the beach from midday onwards in the sun and the albums were beautiful.
Thanks again for your tips and advice
February 18th, 2011 at 8:51 am
@Celesta – the lady in the first photograph is fully clothed. I don’t personally have any issues with the photograph at all and would share it with anyone, but then we are all different.
Great article, thank you. x
February 18th, 2011 at 10:08 am
Beautiful photos. It’s easy to take a lovely photo of a 22 year old. It’s a lot more difficult to make a woman over 30 feel as sexy and radiant as you’ve shown your models (or clients) to be.
Inspirational work. Gorgeous use of light. Thank you.
February 18th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
Thank you for posting this article. Love your photos. I have always tried to ensure the background and the subject are well lit – am going to go practice now with putting the sun behind the subject and not worry if the sky gets blown out – your simple b&w image of the lady at the beach is lovely.
February 18th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
Great article and great work. I have been using flash more and more lately and have wanted to get back to the basics by using just available light. Your work demonstrates how effective available light can be.
February 18th, 2011 at 3:33 pm
Scott Johnson must be a real jerk. Never mind. Veronica’s shots are great. Whether or not they technically fall into the gambit of what some pro’s or wanna-bees might think, the best photographs imo are the ones I like – nothing more nothing less – and I expect the same would apply to most people. Natural lighting is great and it doesn’t matter if the results have been through post-production or not. Creativity is the key regardless of the tools. And in Veronica’s examples they were few and worked well. Well done.
February 18th, 2011 at 3:35 pm
Whoops – Veroniqe. My apologies!
February 18th, 2011 at 4:24 pm
I like portrait photography and your article is very helpful..I like the pictures specially the first one..im looking forward to your next post on posing..i surely need that!
February 18th, 2011 at 5:43 pm
I’m still experimenting with flashes. Theorectically it is always suggested to underexpose the flash by 1-2 stops. But I find that even with that and a diffuser, i still get pretty “flat” images. Any suggestions how i can make the picture more dynamic and maybe a little more warm?
February 18th, 2011 at 11:22 pm
@ Singapore wedding photography have a look at http://strobist.blogspot.com/ and click on ‘lighting 101′ You’ll find some fantastic techniques for lighting your subjects with flashes and making them a bit more dynamic.
A brilliantly written article with some fantastic images, I’m definitely going to try this out this weekend!
February 20th, 2011 at 11:17 am
i thought the article was great. You had some tips for me that I had not thought about before. As an amateur, I’m willing to try it all.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:34 pm
Great article indeed, got 1 reflector but almost never use it… maybe gonna take it out of the closet soon!
But i’m afraid, living in Holland, we don’t have spectacular sunshine all day haha. Cloudy and rainy days are found every week. So the clouds are my natural softboxes
. That in combination with my off camera flash helps me make my shots.
February 21st, 2011 at 8:15 am
I find sometimes I can get a bit too hung up on gadgets and flashes and forget to just work with the big Speedlight in the sky. This is inspiring stuff – particularly as the weather is starting to improve here in North America.
February 22nd, 2011 at 10:15 am
I really like theses photos. Thanks for this awesome tips! And also beatiful photographs.
February 24th, 2011 at 9:10 pm
Couldn’t believe the poor guy Scott was getting a hammering left right and center. He expressed his view though to an extent I disagree with him but is it too much of thinking or asking even from the esteemed writer of this beautiful article to spare him a rod ?
I understand that most people around us in the world we live in care less about where the other is coming from. But just not commenting on his posts or disagreeing with him is far better then calling the fellow names. If someone is at error what good will it do if all start taking sides and beating on him.
I have seen mere polite refrains win wars and create peace. Though my opinion hold no signifance in here since I hardly comment but I couldnt help but share that we can as sensible humans can do much much better then this. Our patience is a gift. Let us use it.
Thank You Veronique but I guess I was not able to get enough juice from this article. But others have. So I know it is just that I have not experimented with shaders and diffusers and hence it is my doing only. But thanks a lot for some good tips
March 10th, 2011 at 5:59 am
I’ll make no claims about portrait photography but I do appreciate the use of available light.
Not the same “scott”, BTW!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lendog64/5474389966/
May 5th, 2011 at 11:20 pm
hi
with the available light, less or more we can have great photos if we adjust our camera properly.
May 23rd, 2011 at 6:57 pm
I am very happy to read from your tips that are simplifying the necessary knowledge that one should have when shooting. i could like to have a concern in relation to using of FLASHES and POSITION that one should be when shooting in day light. i used to tell somebody to face the light when shooting, this is because the light from the sun could have interfered with flash and spoil the picture. now you are recommending that the light from the sun should be at back of the subject something which i fear could cause collision . sometimes you might find that the light at the back of the subject is some how brown and the subject is like the same. will this not distort the image of the picture? otherwise thanks for reaching photographers through your spontaneous effort, God bless you.
January 3rd, 2012 at 5:05 pm
Your images are beautiful. We should all be so lucky to be your subject. I have the reflector and a medium format camera. I have yet to go digital. Can you offer any advice? Which camera do you use?
January 26th, 2012 at 3:16 am
Hi – being an amateur photographer with a strong bias towards landscapes – portrait shots or people focused shots are not what I usually do more than quickly glance at. Any blow out’s in landscape photography is usually a no no (although there are some who like the creative licence to include them in certain settings) so my first reaction to the first 2 shots in this article as somewhat negative but then I realised that was because of my bias towards landscapes – once I had recognised that I was able to view the photos in a different light as it were. Still not a great fan of portraiture but I appreciate the skills employed here and indeed the creative daring to go all out in emphasis of your subject.
March 30th, 2012 at 12:20 am
WOW! Those shots!
December 27th, 2012 at 7:30 am
Regarding the first two pics, I really like the first one, my only issue with the second pic is having the model bring her arms away from her body. This makes a someone look thinner which doesn’t work for this model in my opinion. Otherwise, your shots are lovely! I would be very happy if I had paid you for them which is my measure of a PRO.
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