First Studio Shoot

[Stbourne]

For those who don't use FB here is my first studio shot image with the help of Mel Barnes.
Rebecca is the lovely model.
All comments etc are very welcome and helpful.

Thanks.

[melbarnes]

I like the post-processing that you have done on Beccy's skin. What software did you use for that Shaun?

I think a little more contrast in the iris to bring out more detail in the eyes might improve it slightly - it might be worth a try.

Superb portrait for a first attempt.

[John]

There is no doubt that you've done really well here and produced something stylish, something very much of a "fashion photography" genre. It would not look out of place in fashion magazines. It's also a million miles away from the sort of portraits I personally am currently aiming for, which have a much more natural feel to them. But that's beside the point and you have your own style with this.

A small detail - what about the eyes? In portraiture one of the most essential parts of the image are always the eyes. You've no doubt heard the phrase "the eyes have it" and it applies to almost all images of people. We look at the eyes, the windows of the soul. But these eyes have a very strange reflection in them, so maybe you could look at that and see if it's the effect you really wanted.

[Paul Jones]

Hi Shaun

The ultimate test is whether you like it. That's what matters at the end of the day.

There's a lot to like about it. I think you have captured Becky well. The capture, lighting and post-processing all work together for a decent portrait.

I am reminded a little of the straight-on approach of portrait photographer Martin Schoeller. See - https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=marti ... 0&bih=1041

John mentions the eye reflections. I don't mind them at all and, knowing Mel, I'm assuming he showed you how to setup clamshell lighting. It's one of my 'go to' setups when photographing a woman.

For me, the only thing that would improve the photo is if you could show us something more of the real Becky. By that, I mean show us more of her character or personality. The wide-eyed gaze is a little 'deer in the headlights' and is typical of what most people tend to do when a camera is pointed at them. One of the main skills of the portrait photographer is to coach people to relax and open up to the camera.

Recommended viewing:

Peter Hurley : 'It's about the squinch' - http://youtu.be/ff7nltdBCHs
See 'deer in the headlights' at 01.11
Checkout the 'Shabang' at 09.30

Peter Hurley: 'It's about the jaw' - http://youtu.be/Qe3oJnFtA_k

[melbarnes]

Yes, thanks go to you Paul for showing me the clam-shell lighting set up, and I passed this on to Shaun. Shaun and I intend to do another photoshoot with Becky once Shaun gets more time from helping out with his new baby daughter! Then we will try more of the lighting set-ups that you showed me.

[Stbourne]

Mel, John & Paul.
Thank you very much for your helpful comments and tips.
And yes Mel and I used clamshell lighting for this image.
In Rebecca's defense the pose was one I specifically asked for as I
wanted to try some post production tutorial techniques.
As you say Paul it's about wether I like it and I personally do,
Mel all the PP was done in Photoshop.
I really enjoyed the shoot and am looking forward to our 2nd at Mel's
place some time soon and am very grateful to Mel for spending his
time helping me learn.

Thanks for taking time to CC my image it is appreciated.

Shaun

[Stbourne]

Here's another along the same lines of PP a little less serious.

[PhilipHowe]

I think the whole image is too sharp. I think this throws the skin processing off slightly for me. I find the silver face slightly distracting.
That said, as per the facebook page, I think it you are going to that length, you need to make the photo flawless (magazine style) ie, the mouth symetrical, the hair perfect etc.

It's a great first effort.

the second image is better for me, but I'm not a fan of a perfectly lit studio portrait being silver/black and white.
I think black and white only works where you are trying to create deep shaddows, ie, muscle definition etc.

[Stbourne]

Thanks for your input Phil.

Always learning and help from more experienced
photographers is gratefully accepted.

Regards