Sunset strobist with model

[JoeW]

Several thoughts.

1. To the specific question, you're getting close to the right approach with a fill flash when shooting in to a sunset. But right now, TiredIron is right--it's a bit harsh at times. Needs a scrim or soft box to moderate the light. Furthermore, it's uneven...lit face, legs in shadow (which tells me the light is either very small--not dispersed, or you're using a gobo). Or an assistant with a BAR (big-ass-reflector). You use the speed light to highlight the face but use the BAR to bounce the sun light off of the body.

2. Sandbags are easy (which is why lots of people use them or a variation on them. They're a couple of empty bags. Then you fill them with sand (or rocks) on-site. Or put your water bottles in them. And then you drink the water or dump out the sand and carry the empty bags back to the car.

 

[manny212]

Lots and lots of sandbags. You can also stake them down with tent-stakes & rope. The diffuser cap on the speedlight will do nothing at these distances, but somthing like a large Rogue flashbender might have helped.[/QUOTE]

This was a 15 minute walk/hike to get to this location. I was carrying two camera bags with all the junk I thought I might need, two light stands, reflector and softbox. The model was carrying a large bag with 3 outfits and loads of shoes. Where would I put sandbags, on my head like a sherpa? [/QUOTE]


rent a donkey !