First Model Shoot - DPChallenge Forums

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

07/27/2006 10:40:07 AM · #1

That's right, taking the big step tonight! First time working with a model - granted, she's a friend, and has never modeled before, but it's still exciting.

We're shooting in a local park, just some general images for stock use. I think I've got a handle on poses and all - did a bit of looking at examples and think I know what i want, but I would appreciate a bit of help with the technical side.

It's looking like it will be somewhat overcast this evening, we're starting shooting at 6pm. I made a reflector with some cardboard and tin-foil (duller side), but don't really know a whole lot about how to use it, aside from "aim it at the model".

I was also planning on shooting between F/2.8 and F/4 with my Tamron 28-75. I've hot a hotshoe flash that I can use to fill, but not sure if I'll need it.

Anyone have some wisdom they want to share? Any glaring errors in my planning?

I will post a few when I get home after, of course. :-)

idnic

Canon EOS-60D

07/27/2006 10:42:01 AM · #2

Take a tripod and a reflector with ya. And relax and have fun with her, you will get more natural looking shots if you're both having fun.

albc28

Canon EOS-50D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II

07/27/2006 10:43:54 AM · #3

I'm glad cindi answered....

Cindi...what size reflector is best for a photo like that? Actually, what's the smallest size reflector can you get away with?

idnic

Canon EOS-60D

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

07/27/2006 10:49:37 AM · #4

Originally posted by albc28:

I'm glad cindi answered....

Cindi...what size reflector is best for a photo like that? Actually, what's the smallest size reflector can you get away with?

For out 'n about I use the collapsible sun reflectors made for your car. They're about 2' X 2' and bronze (warm) in color. I have a much larger one in the studio, but I find the wind makes it really hard to control outside and the small cheap ones can just live in the back of my car all the time. I let the model hold it most of the time, either under their chin or off to one side when I'm shooting close portraits. For full body shots its not going to help much, but an assistant can hold it near one side of the face (if you are lucky enough to have an assistant around) to help guide the light.

albc28

Canon EOS-50D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II

07/27/2006 11:02:43 AM · #5

So you are saying that if I buy a 22" diameter one with white on one side and gold on the other side..it should be big enough???

(please say yes..please say yes...PUH-LEASE say yes....but mean it)

idnic

Canon EOS-60D

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

07/27/2006 11:09:40 AM · #6

Originally posted by albc28:

So you are saying that if I buy a 22" diameter one with white on one side and gold on the other side..it should be big enough???

(please say yes..please say yes...PUH-LEASE say yes....but mean it)

Yup! Should be fine for head shots, head & shoulder shots, even 3/4 body if you have an assistant to hold it. :)

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM

08/02/2006 09:43:11 PM · #7

Well, here are the results! All in all, I'm happy - for my first shoot, I think it went well, and I'm pleased with the shots I got. This was the model's first experience as well, which made it easier for both of us.
I learned a lot doing this, about paying attention to framing and composition, about how my external flash worked and how to use it, and about working with a model. Most important, maybe, is to let the model loosen up a bit before the shoot, so they're comfortable and natural.

I'd really recommend that everyone do something like this, just for the learning experience. And of course I welcome any comments on the shots and will do my best to return them 1-for-1 within the week.

dwterry

Canon EOS-1D Mark III

08/02/2006 09:52:36 PM · #8

I like 'em. Numbers 1, 4 and 3 are my favorites, in that order. Love the expression on her face in that first one. Shows you were having fun!

albc28

Canon EOS-50D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II

08/03/2006 07:49:47 AM · #9

So what equipment did you have with you? Reflector?

Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6

08/03/2006 08:20:42 AM · #10

Originally posted by albc28:

So what equipment did you have with you? Reflector?

I had a homemade reflector (tinfoil on cardboard) that worked pretty well. I dragged another friend along and had him work it for me. I shot with my 300D and the Tamron 28-75mm, at F/4, 100 ISO. I also had my new hotshoe flash, which is an older model Quantaray that did a really nice job.

Givemeashot

Nikon D200

08/03/2006 09:03:10 AM · #11

Left ya some comments! Wonderful shoot! hope you hade fun?!

nova

Canon EOS-6D

Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L USM

08/03/2006 10:22:26 AM · #12

Ok Brent, I've left some honest comments for you! Just like you, I also had a first-time model shoot for stock this week... if you have a few minutes please take a look in my portfolio under "Angel" and fire away, I welcome honest criticism.

Which stock agencies are you signed up with? Same user name there? I'll look you up.

Keep shooting, Ray

_eug

Nikon D50

Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D

08/03/2006 10:48:42 AM · #13

Nice work for your (and her) first time Brent.