My first try at lighting, C&C please

[spacefuzz]

*added new images post #14*

Went to a model group shoot and had my first try at lighting a model, single speed light with diffuser. I would be very grateful for any C&C, I have a LOT to learn.

#1

#2

#3 (yes I know I missed the sun spot on her hand, argh)

 

[spacefuzz]

64 views and no disparaging comments? come on, destroy my work please!

 

[tirediron]

Disparaging comments per req!

Actually these are pretty darn good, especially for one light set-ups. I'd like to see #1 slightly brighter, not much, probably less than 1/3 stop. I would like to see more light on (and detail in) the hair however. Did you think of trying a reflector?

I very much like #2; the lighting and pose work well IMO, but #3? The lighting is fine if a little flat, but the pose is well, just bleah. It really looks like a picture of someone standing in line at the resort bar.

Just my $00.02 worth - your mileage may vary.

~John

 

[Guinness Man]

#2 seems like you aimed the light at her hence the harder shadow across the neck. what was your light? speed light? Soft Box?
Try a soft box aiming towards the ground (not towards her) off camera right. its a nice effect.
example here of one I did with a one light set up: http://i985.photobucket.com/albums/ae337/scottallisonphoto/TPF/ChloeHemmat_ScottAllisonWeb21.jpg

 

[Designer]

You say a single speedlight with diffuser, but #1 shows two sets of shadows, some of which is unflattering and the rest is distracting.
#2 is is the best, the lighting is very well placed. A very flattering shot.
#3 lighting is too flat, and the pose is unflattering. By that i mean we see the spread of her hips, but not the hip, per se, which would have completed the picture. I don't think you can crop out the wideness, either, because then you will have to crop into her hands, which wouldn't work.

 

[spacefuzz]

Awesome thank you all this is very helpful.

#1 Tirediron, the hair data is there on the RAW histogram so I will reprocess and pull that out.
Designer: I was struggling with my camera apparently and accidently set my OCF to fire in addition to the speed light. noob mistake, one I will not make again.

#2 Guiness: the light was mostly from the speed light in a 8" soft box resting a few feet away roughly level with her face. Thank you for the suggestion, I will try that next time.

#3: Yes I think I shot this full power OCF along with the speed light in diffuser at 45 deg. I didnt notice the OCF since it was so bright outside. I agree with the pose, will look for others.

Im going to try again this weekend so this is all very helpful. THANKS!

 

[JClishe]

Went to a model group shoot and had my first try at lighting a model,

So you've only shot models in the dark up until now?

 

[Robin Usagani]

I have never been to a group model shoot but it sounds like it is no fun. I rather find my own model and work with her 1 on 1.

 

[JClishe]

I have never been to a group model shoot but it sounds like it is no fun. I rather find my own model and work with her 1 on 1.

Actually they can be a ton of fun, assuming it's not paparazzi style. All of the models that I currently regularly work with, I've met at group shoots. It's a great low cost, low risk, low stress way to meet local talent and figure out who you might want to work with 1 on 1.

 

[spacefuzz]

So you've only shot models in the dark up until now?

Aside from a photo class where the teacher set up the lights, I have never actually shot models. Just a simple landscape guy. But my wife wanted me to travel less so I figured I would try it out, plus if she then wants me to stop taking pictures of girls I can go back to the Sierras!

Schwetty it was actually quite useful to be around other photographers. I was able to learn a lot just watching them and when I asked for advice on equipment or their lighting arrangement they were all very nice and helpful.

 

[jake337]

I have never been to a group model shoot but it sounds like it is no fun. I rather find my own model and work with her 1 on 1.

I think this thread may change your mind........

Charming girls in the park

 

[fjrabon]

#2 would be near perfect with a less cheesy bedspread/background.

 

[spacefuzz]

#2 would be near perfect with a less cheesy bedspread/background.

I agree, the leopard print was heinous. The whole room was done up like that, go figure.

 

[spacefuzz]

So thank you all for the pointers and advice, I tried again last weekend and here is some of what I got. Would love to know what you think / advice for improvement. As always, tear em up!

#1 No flash, ~ 15 minutes before sunset. Single exposure with tripod.

#2 Just after sunset, got a pocket wizard to trigger my SB600, used a 15 deg snoot about 10 ft from the model.

 

[bunny99123]

I really like #1. The body lines are clean and looks so fresh.