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DPChallenge Forums >> Individual Photograph Discussion >> Self Portrait - Ligthing Experimentation
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10/05/2007 04:57:16 AM · #1
I haven't done much portraiture (especially indoors) so I decided to play around with a few ideas this evening. The above photo was shot with a warming filter on the primary slave flash and a blue gelatin on the secondary flash; the secondary flash was positioned somewhat high.



I'm definitely interested in any comments, suggestions, or critiques. Please let me know if the photo appears too saturated or way off in hue/brightness/contrast as the monitor I'm using is new and relatively uncalibrated.

Any thoughts on the best/cheapest type of material to use for a black backdrop? I'm also curious to know if there are any easy, do-it-yourself methods for making a snoot or some other way of controlling where light is being thrown.
10/05/2007 05:32:41 AM · #2
A black bedsheet or two would probably work as a backdrop. If you get two of them together it should gte rid of any light shining through the tiny gaps in the weave of the fabric. I've used a black shirt as a backdrop a few times and it usually turns out ok. same goes for a white sheet too although these can tend to look like a sheet on the final picture.

Your picture is good though. I'm no portrait master but the lighting is alright, not great, but nice. Maybe a bit more contrast in it would help add some more definition, and bring out the eyes a bit more too- there is some reflection in there but if you can get it more prominent i think that would help.

Nice work man.
10/05/2007 08:48:30 AM · #3
I like the splash of blue. Very nice portrait. For a flash, you can make a snoot from a roll of paper or Pringles can, etc. Easy DIY project.
10/05/2007 10:07:50 AM · #4
I think this is actually a very well done portrait. The light on the right side of your head (left of frame) adds depth. As does the light on top of your head. If I read correctly, you only had two sources, was the light on the side of your face bounced? I'm also fine with the background... did you have to blur that in post processing?

As for improvements, and these are opinions only:
- a little more pop from the main light
- a little less on the hair
- bump the contrast up a bit (curve in photoshop)


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