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Hi everyone -

 

First time here and I'm looking for critique as to how I could've done better and how to

avoid it?

 

Thanks in advance!

Tony

Hi. My first reaction is that the white robe or gown and her dark hair and complexion are an exposure challenge. Which call out for some supplemental light on her face and hair. A reflector fill would be one way to deal with that. Or even two reflectors with one lighting her hair. Yes, they would need to be large enough. Lights could do it of course. If she moved to her left you would get her without the tree and that might be better. A lovely model and a good one for starters as pose. You are well on your way and i wish you well indeed.. You might also have tried some closer shots of her and in vertical crop, not too close though as her hands are valuable. Good luck.

I like the pose and the bench, the background not so much. If there is another bench backed by just greenery, or where it just falls away, I believe it would improve the image.  Of course there are all sorts of post processing options to fix the background. I agree with Gerry that a bit of fill flash or would help. Just as a matter of personal taste, when working with models, in general I prefer that they engage a bit with the lens (AKA the viewer). 

In any case, a very good and well considered effort!

I like it.  I would not add any additional lighting because you have a nice lighting pattern on her face (diffused highlights on her forehead, nose and cheek--and the contrast feels right on my monitor).  Some portrait traditionalists will say her face should be posed as a profile or a 2/3 view--not something in-between like you have here.  Usually this bothers me a bit but not with this image.  She is gorgeous, her dress stately, her pose strong and assured.  Nice job.

With the photo enlarged I can almost agree with John that the lighting is not bad as is . Especially if one cropped in closer to give more attention to face vs surrounds and white white dress- as eyes pull to the largest illumination most cases.... Meaning you can see detail in the dress and still get some attention on her face. I suppose I would have added just enough light to fill in her facial structure a little more- the main purpose unless you are selling the garment- and also still some light on her hair to separate it out form the background. I have not quarrel with the pose as long as you tried a few other angles. Good luck.