So?

This is from my first shoot with a real model, Any comments, advice, critiques, ratings,

or just a hi would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in adanve - Lex

Nice model. Very good shot for a first try. I like the idea of the sepia colour and the clear background. Personally, I do not think that the floor lamp adds anything important. The lighting of the model could be improved by adding a second light source and the contrast could be reduced. I have played with your picture (see enclosed). Regards. Yves P.

I am no expert but I'd recommend a reflector or additional light source to lighten up her face.

Watch for undesirable halos when post processing.

Thanks both of you. Next time I get to work with her I'll have to try your suggestions.

 

Thanks again - Lex

you started out right but after that it seems you did your best to screw things up. It's all there, a very challenging pose, great look, and nice composition. Actually I like it you included that tilted lamp because otherwise it would have been just another glamour shot like 13 in a dozen. The lamp adds interest. Your lighting looks actually very nice. You've got nice texture in the dress and lampshade and the hair as well. To me that's basics and very important for the overall quality. What you shouldn't have done is apply that ghastly brown look, I intentionally don't call it sepia because it looks bloody awfull here. I too prefer the use of natural/available light and while I use pro reflectors on occasion in such a case the use of a white piece of paper or cloth can go a long way in achieving a more even lighting. But like I said it doesn't look that bad here. I do think however this would work best in traditional b&w and with higher contrast at that. If this really is your first model shoot I sure will look out for what's more to come.

Thanks for the wonderful comment. This was truly my first model shoot. There were 5 photographers, 2 models, and 1 makeup artist. Lots of high tech. equipment and then me with my D50 and flash. It was a blast, and a great learning experience. I see what you mean with the color, I think I was trying to do too much with the post processing, and I really like your B&W version much better. Thanks again - Lex

great experience. Working with and mastering the use of flash can be very rewarding but once mastered it often becomes predictable, too controlled. That's why I prefer available light. But it's not about high-end gear, it's the way you use it. Besides, you've got a very good camera. Getting a good exposure gives you less of a headache in PP. PP is just to finish it off, getting the cherry on the cake as it were.

The single most important thing in any portrait are the eyes, that's why I highlighted them here. It's often overlooked. On the other hand I do sometimes use sunglasses, it creates a bit of a distance to the viewer which can work great When I started out and did work like this I often used to buy magazines like the Vogue to see how the big boys did it and used their light. You can get a lot out of that.

 

While the model you used looks like she has done it before I often picked up people from the street as well to do shoots. It's amazing what you can do. I used a professional make-up artist for that which took about 90-120 minutes (she's the wife of a photographer so know's what is needed; there is a big difference in applying make-up for b&w vs colour; you won't believe what I've picked up over the years) I had scouted out locations beforehand while my wife helped with styling and lighting. It's amazing what you can do with just a little effort. If you're really into this it can be great fun. If you use inexperienced models give them feedback on what you want so you can direct them better, it's very motivating and helps to get what you want. I used to work with a Hasselblad camera and used a polaroid back inbetween for that so I know it works. Now with digital that has gotten a lot easier.

 

BTW, never forget to study the old masters, there is a lot to be gotten there.

Thanks again for all the info. It's going to take a while to digest it all, but it's incredibly helpful! Thanks again - Lex