First portrait shoot!

SabrinaO

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I'm taking headshots of an "actor" today. First of all im kinda scared because im going into some strange guys house that I don't know... how do you all deal with that?
Anyways on to my question... im thinking about having my speedlight beauty dish (homemade) camera left and my alien bee for fill camera right. Is this a good lighting setup? Any suggestions? Help is appreciated!
 
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I'm taking headshots of an "actor" today. First of all im kinda scared because im going into some strange guys house that I don't know... how do you all deal with that?

One of a couple of ways.....

1. Get a permit to carry a firearm.

2. Keep a can of wasp spray in your camera bag. (range of 30ft, and infinitely effective against "actor's" turned assailant.)

3. Bring someone to the shoot with you that you trust (safety in numbers)

4. Tell someone where you are going including address and the time you expect be finished. Give them a call after the shoot to let them know you aren't chained up in the "actor's" basement.

5. If ANYTHING makes you feel uncomfortable, leave. Even if it means coming back later with an escort to collect your gear. Stuff can be replaced.... you can't.
 
I'm taking headshots of an "actor" today. First of all im kinda scared because im going into some strange guys house that I don't know... how do you all deal with that?

One of a couple of ways.....

1. Get a permit to carry a firearm.

2. Keep a can of wasp spray in your camera bag. (range of 30ft, and infinitely effective against "actor's" turned assailant.)

3. Bring someone to the shoot with you that you trust (safety in numbers)

4. Tell someone where you are going including address and the time you expect be finished. Give them a call after the shoot to let them know you aren't chained up in the "actor's" basement.

5. If ANYTHING makes you feel uncomfortable, leave. Even if it means coming back later with an escort to collect your gear. Stuff can be replaced.... you can't.

Thanks for #2, 4, and 5! :mrgreen: Definitely what i'm gonna do today! Well, hopefully #5 doesn't happen, but thanks for the reminder on how things can be replaced... but I can't! #3 is definitely gonna happen in the future whenever I can
 
... im thinking about having my speedlight beauty dish (homemade) camera left and my alien bee for fill camera right. Is this a good lighting setup? Any suggestions? Help is appreciated!
In addition to your setup (assuming you have enough light stands), I'd try using one of the lights as a hair light ~135° lens axis to add a nice accent and separation from the background. It only takes a few minutes to change and will give you some different looks.

I'd also bring a reflector to help add detail in the shadow side opposite side of the main. You could also try having the beauty dish on lens axis up high and have the 'actor' hold the reflector to remove the shadows for a nice clean look.
 
... im thinking about having my speedlight beauty dish (homemade) camera left and my alien bee for fill camera right. Is this a good lighting setup? Any suggestions? Help is appreciated!
In addition to your setup (assuming you have enough light stands), I'd try using one of the lights as a hair light ~135° lens axis to add a nice accent and separation from the background. It only takes a few minutes to change and will give you some different looks.

I'd also bring a reflector to help add detail in the shadow side opposite side of the main. You could also try having the beauty dish on lens axis up high and have the 'actor' hold the reflector to remove the shadows for a nice clean look.

When you say have the actor hold the reflector, how would you accomplish this? You want the beauty dish basically behind or right beside the camera up high, correct? Then the reflector would be where? In the actor's lap? I'm having a hard time picturing what you're talking about here.
 
Then the reflector would be where? In the actor's lap? I'm having a hard time picturing what you're talking about here.
More like have them hold the reflector... especially if it's a head shot. Angled correctly, it will still bounce light onto the subject. You can get an idea by this setup.


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Result

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