S. S.

Outside Spring portraits are among my favorites... there is no

studio like nature

I like the natural lighting and seemingly uncontrived smile and pose. I also like the B & W tones and the rough textures of the tree that contrasts sharply with her hair and face.

 I know precious little about portrait photography, but of course I know what I like, and this image is one that I admire. I do have some questions though, if you would be kind enough to provide me with the information. Why the ISO of 2000? I know that the D700 is certainly capable of shooting at this level without too much detrimental noise, but I was curious as there seems to be enough light for a high shutter speed.? Also I noticed in the exif info that the flash fired, was this to ensure that there wasn't too much deep shadow on her face? Probably sound like stupid questions, but as I said I am a complete novice as far as portraits are concerned.

Best Regards

Alf

The High ISO of 2000 allowed me to exploit the shadowed areas at 1/250th of a second... this part of the woodlands was darkening and I wanted freedom to shoot at F5 while we walked and talked (my personal portrait style is informal and conversational)...

The flash appeared to fire, only in the data, this is because I had the SU-800 on the camera hot shoe.  As my lighting assistant was shooting the breeze over a hundred feet away, the flash array she was holding did not have any influence on this exposure, so this is shown with natural light exclusively. 

I hope this answers your questions and thank you for such a nice comment on this portrait!

Many Thanks for answering my questions, very much appreciated! Just as a footnote, I'd like to add think your informal casual style, and natural lighting are reflected in the natural looking results.

Best Regards

Alf

Lovely B/W, beautiful portrait, clever composition.