Feedback on business portraits - DPChallenge Forums

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II

02/28/2008 05:50:49 PM · #1

Here is the first of 20 business portraits I was hired to take for a local business. This is my first time doing formal business portraits so feedback is appreciated both good and constuctive. I will post some additional ones later today, but here is the first...

Camera settings:
F 14.0
1/250
ISO 125

Canon 50mm 1.4

Lighting:
1 large softbox slightly above and in front of the model and slightly camera left of subject, 1 background light on 30 degree grid, 1 small brolly box directly camera right of subject, 1 large umbrella just to the right of the camera-low to the ground angled up towards the model.

P.S. The image is cropped to 5x7 per their request.

Message edited by author 2008-02-28 18:06:29.

surfdabbler

Canon EOS-5D

02/28/2008 06:18:59 PM · #2

Nice smooth lighting and professional look. My first question is what sort of business is it, and what are the portraits to be used for? The subjects expression and mood should fit the use. Portraits for a Real-estate agent sales brochure would try to be friendly looking and approachable, smiling and relaxed, whereas board of directors photos for an annual report would focus more on creating a strong and solid persona, not smiling, more aggressive pose, and maybe more dramatic lighting. A company newsletter might try to show more personality. Other portraits would show more of the business itself, such as fashion designers, or hospitality.

Anyway, back to this photo, for some reason, the catchlight is distracting for me here, although I'm not sure exactly why. The lighting is almost too soft here. You could try lowering the fill-light, and moving the main light a little further away to make it a little more dramatic. Not too much, but just to give it a little more shape. I would also consider moving the shot slightly lower down in the frame, but this might depend on how it gets used or formatted. And of course, everything depends on what the customer is after. :)

Just my .02.

P.S. Thanks for adding the shooting details. I didn't spot the softbox. With 3 soft light sources, it's not surprising the lighting is super-soft! :) Oh, by the way, this is overall very good. I'm just picking on details to give you something more than "Nice shot".

Message edited by author 2008-02-28 18:21:30.

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II

02/28/2008 06:47:57 PM · #3

Thanks for the feedback!

The portraits are for a funeral business. Pictured above is the manager. He wanted pictures of all the employees to frame and put up in his different locations. Some of the portraits of their choice will also end up on their website also.

surfdabbler

Canon EOS-5D

02/28/2008 06:52:44 PM · #4

Oh wow! Now that I know it's for a funeral business, I think you captured the perfect look here. There's a touch of sadness in the eyes, and a caring smile. Great!

snaffles

Nikon D7100

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II

02/28/2008 07:00:46 PM · #5

I agree with surfdabbler...and, so long as nobody is grinning(ie teeth bared) should do well. Envy your light setup, wish I had it!

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4.0-5.6G ED

02/28/2008 07:46:07 PM · #6

thanks! My light setup isn't really all that expensive, and I am very happy with the results so far... though I have a lot to learn and have a lot more experimenting ahead...
My Lighting
That is the package I have with a few exceptions...
I substituted the 32-inch umbrella for a 32-inch brolly box...
I also purchased the boom arm attachment, barn door kit, and colored gels.

I SHOULD have also purchased the 22-inch beauty dish and that will be one of my next purchases here real soon.

**BUMP for the evening crowd**

Message edited by author 2008-02-28 19:47:04.

gwe21

Nikon D300

02/28/2008 08:05:08 PM · #7

very good. You have your lighting down! You captured the expressions well too. good job.