Portrait pics advice for beginner

[M3_csl]

Hi guys,

I have had my 400d for 2 months now and really getting into the photography thing.

I have had some friends that are moving to america ask me to take some pics of them and there family.

I dont have any lighting or back drops, so its just my camera and tripod for equipment, im not expecting amazing results and i have told them this, so its just a practice.

Is there any general advice and tips you can give on camera settings, composition and lighting.
I know lighting is a big factor, are there anyway of cheating with lighting by using home lighting.

Sorry if the questions seem silly or basic but im learing here.

Any advice would be great!

Thanks

 

[stevewestern]

For me, a good place to start was by searching for all posts by CJnicolai here on TP - she uses available light, and to my eyes, takes some amazing pictures, and has handed out some amazing advice here...
All you need is a camera, a window or door or outside, and some basic photograpic knowledge - the rest will come, or so I hope...
Good luck !
Steve

 

[digitalfailure]

If you don't have any external lighting, then natural light is the only real way to go. The on board pop up flash is way to harsh.

A comfy seat by a patio door or lounge window with a reflector the other side to bounce some light back would be my thinking if outdoors isn't an option.