Newbie just experimenting with flash

Kev R

Kev R

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Kevin
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Hi Folks

I am looking to start doing some portrait shots, just family and friends...really haven't got a clue where to start. I have a couple of old non dedicated flashes which I can trigger remotely using the commander mode on my D90, so I have just been messing about with the flash’s tripod mounted in different positions.

I know I need softbox's and brollies etc. but can't afford that kit yet, anyway I have lots to learn first.

I would like some comments and advice on the couple of shots below, managed to get my daughter to give me 5 minutes of her valuable time!!! She stayed in the one position while I moved the flash's around her to see the different effects, I don't understand power and zoom etc etc. The two shots below are the best of a bad bunch, they have both had a little bit of PS work just to add some contrast etc.

I am open to all and any critique/advice etc. I would also appreciate any links to help me learn about studio lighting techniques.

Bring it on...



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Can't see any pics Kev?
 
Apart from the shadow near eye/nose which makes it look like a piece of face is missing, the rest is A OK! Maybee more shadow right of face or less? Certainly distracting, lovely face as well!
Just my opinion.



I have a photographic memory that was never developed
 
I think it is a smidge too strong....and I mean a smidge! :lol:

Number 1 would be spot on, but I think the light on her right cheek is quite overpowering...just a little less powerful would be good :)
 
Thanks Kev can see them now. I think you could have gained by using a reflector to bounce some light into the right side of her face. Just a tad too harsh as it is for my liking but keep working on it.
Trial and error is a wonderful thing.
Her eyes, particularly in number 1, are really vibrant - very pretty girl.
 
I would say the light coming from the right is a bit too much, and the light on the left is too far back, giving the harsh shadows on her face. I would move the left light forward, and dial the power down a bit on both, or use a reflector to soften the shadows. You can easily make a reflector yourself of a get one of those sliver windscreen reflectors from Halfords... ;) I would say you aren't far off getting some great portraits though.
 
A reflector camera left would help these two out a lot. It would help lift the dark shadows forming on the model's right hand side of the face.

I think the light on the right cheek of the first one may be caused by "spill" from illuminating the background. Dialing down the flash a stop and or a bit more space between the model and the Background would help.

In the second the flash seems a little to overpowered. Either close the aperture up, or dial the flash power down a tad would help.

If you can't dial the flashes power down move them back.

The above I mentioned are all small changes you'll pick up as you learn, I have only just realised the effects myself. Other than the small adjustments, they are a great start and show that you are ude to have a lot of rewarding fun as you play around!

If you can't afford softboxes, look for cheap stands and shoot through umbrellas to diffuse the light.

Rob
 
Thanks all

really appriciated the feedback and advice, looking forward to the weekend for another session.

Cheers...kevin
 
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