Self-portraits - DPChallenge Forums

11/24/2007 04:26:44 PM · #1

I would like to take some self portraits,mainly because I don't know anyone who wants to pose for me and I want to do some portrait shots...
I was just wondering if anyone has any tips as to how to get the best shots? I'm wanting to do some outdoor ones..I don't have any good indoor places to take shots..I have a tripod also...but I really don't know where to start...all I know pretty much is have the sun behind the camera.... (if that's even right!! lol )
Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks SO much

soup

Canon EOS-30D

Sigma 28-105mm f/2.8-4.0 Aspherical for Canon

11/24/2007 04:29:06 PM · #2

set the camera to timer mode - prefocus on the spot you plan on posing at. hit the shutter and quickly get into position. try and try again.

some remote shutter releases will also activate the auto-focus - so wouldn't have to keep running back and forth.

Rooster

Canon EOS-400D Rebel XTi

11/24/2007 04:33:00 PM · #3

Hey... I have to same problem with finding models!

I would take an object that you can place where you head will be in the shot for focus before setting the timer. This way it isnt a crap shoot in getting yourself in focus when your in front of the camera. Basically, take a ball or card board or something (outdoors can be tricky) and place it where you will be in the shot. Establish focus on the object, hit the shutter and then run over it the object and replace it with yourself.

I prolly wouldnt keep the sun directly behind the camera but maybe off to the side.

I am no expert but I think going out and testing things out and experimenting is the best way to feel out your own style. Good luck!

amandakk

Canon EOS-40D

11/24/2007 04:38:56 PM · #4

I just wanted to let you know if your going to do out doors , you dont want to have the sun on your face , unless you want your face blown out , try the sun behind you , it works . it gives high lights, if your having problems getting models, ask family and friends to help you out , thats a great way to start , you can always ask anyone , you will be surprise.

11/24/2007 04:44:43 PM · #5

Thanks guys :)
I don't know many people out here in Calgary,all my family is back in Ontario..the few people who would model for me don't have the same days off as me (because they're my co-workers,we all have different schedules)..
Hopefully I get something good though..I'm a little bit shy,so I'm hoping there is no one around when I'm doing this..lol ...some strange girl outside taking pictures of herself...lol
Anyways,thanks :) I'll post some of the pictures when I get some good ones!

littlegett

Canon EOS-20D

11/24/2007 06:08:00 PM · #6

//dpchallenge.com/forum.php?action=read&FORUM_THREAD_ID=480664

An Ongoing self portrait thread.

Take a peek there at some images, and ask the users how/what/when/where/why.

11/24/2007 06:11:27 PM · #7

Thanks

11/24/2007 11:59:51 PM · #8

Just another quick question..
If I wanted to do portraits inside,and I have no equipment other than my camera and a tripod..how would I work with lighting? All I would have is natural light through the windows...or lightbulbs..should I have a certain watt or place lamps in a certain position?
Thanks so much!

littlegett

Canon EOS-20D

Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM

11/25/2007 12:02:27 AM · #9

Originally posted by CWelch:

It depends on the exact effect you want. Best way to answer this question is for you to experiment.

slower shutter, lots and lots and lots of lights. The distance also makes a huge difference. diffuse or not to diffuse.... it is all really up to what you want to capture.

Also, try not to forget about reflection/bounce of lights, and the colour cast of them.

Monique64

Canon EOS-30D

11/25/2007 01:43:14 AM · #10

I dont have any lighting just the speedlite flash mounted to my camera. I have it angled to the ceiling, not straight up but a little forward and put my subject against a plain wall I have black fabric taped to a huge piece of cardboard for a dark background. Dont have them too close otherwise you will have shadow problems. Just play around. Any small amount of under or over exposure I then adjust in photoshop. I'm not really that good, just still experimenting myself with limited equipment.

littlegett

Canon EOS-20D

Nikon AF Nikkor 28-85mm 1:3.5-4.5

11/25/2007 01:47:48 AM · #11

Originally posted by Monique64:

still experimenting myself with limited equipment.

exactly

electrolost

Nikon D200

11/25/2007 02:40:42 AM · #12

Not sure about your d40x but my d50 has a wireless remote that focuses. I use that with a timer so I have time to hide the remote in my hand...