Red

This photo was shot on a day with some sun through the clouds. I

would appreciate comments as what I can do (without a lot of

equipment) to avoid what I see as "flatness" in the face.

I don't really get to see that flatness, unless you refer to the shape of her face. I agree it's a little wide and flat. To give a sense of depth you need to add some shadows selectively.

 

I think you took the picture around noon, when light comes right from above. IMO, that's where that shadows under her eyebrows and cheeks come from. Maybe you can add some shadows using a white cardboard to bounce some light from the side (from the lower-left corner of the picture).

 

Usually, the kind of lighting you have used is very flattering for the average person, but this lady has a very particular facial structure.

Thank you for the comments!

 

Actually, her face is anything but "flat" in real life, which is why I'd like to improve on capturing it! The photo was taken around 5 pm, but I agree that I need to figure out ways to create contrast to bring her out of the plane of the picture.

OK, now I got it. I guess I wasn't really thinking in my former comment :-)

I believe the problem is focal length. When you use large focal lengths (larger than 105mm, or its equivalent angle of view for a G3), perspective is compressed: Far objects appear closer. Have a look at the background scenery: it seems to be one behind of hers. I would try getting closer (with your feet) and using a shorter focal length.

I didn't think that that was the case, but checking with the original I see that the 35 mm equivalent focal length is 110 mm!

Told'ya ;-)

I am glad you did not center this. Nice image.