Y_vdm wrote:
thanks for the methodology, Steady. I will try it once I got good looking face ... Definitively prefer shooting models, candids and my wife
Amitiés,
Yves
Glad you liked the post Yves.
My Simple Suggestion: try this on your own face and you might surprise yourself with how you look. And...it will at least give M. something to smile about...seeing you in front of the camera for a change.
Break the "ice" and I assure you, you won't break the camera. But, it may break some inhibitions and give you something "cool" and some new "subject" who is always around when you want to photograph someone.
Thanks Steady. My night, tonight, is taken up with two basketball games to shoot (still haven't PP the last game); however, I promise that I will "break the ice" one of these days. If this post is still active when I do, then I will post the image (with the subtitle..."I am NOT an animal!")
Spoken in the right way, in the right situation, at the right time, in the right tone of voice, and by the right woman that could be a compliment Dave.
Thanks for adding to this discussion. And for posting the two images to consider.
I prefer #2 (Big Light).
I think it looks much better for a few reasons:
1. Not such a tight composition (the #1 image is too close)
2. More "ambient" light and background (even if OOF, the background gives depth)
3. Nice expression, seems friendly
4. Light on face seems softer and nicer, pleasing. Looks like reflected light from a table top outside in an open shade environment, using the sun for ambient and possibly the reflected fill. So, it looks "natural."
5. The light in the eyes looks nicer, not just a spot/dot (catchlights) as shown in #1 image
Another observation about the second image: it has a hat. When people wear broad brimmed hats, the eyes and foreheads are often dark in shadows. Your second image has very nice even light under the hat brim and looks much better than most images of a man wearing a hat.
The second image looks good, regardless of light source or technique. It is a nice portrait.
That said, there are other differences too. The first image appears to have been made inside in "close quarters." The second image appears to have been made outside. The technique I described earlier as "Steady Hand's Method for Blank Wall Close Quarters SP" could certainly be applied to some outside situations (if seated next to a large wall or reflective surface for instance), but it is really "geared" to using small spaces as typically found in a home or apartment to "bounce" the light from a flash in order to give a larger light source and better light and angles on the face. But, if I were seated outside at a cafe (or on a deck) and saw the right opportunity, I would not hesitate to try it (the method) for an "outside" shot SP. Simply point the flash at the nearest large reflective surface, point the camera to the subject (me) and click using the self-timer.
But, perhaps a better comparison (of two images) would be a more "confined" space (like a typical bedroom) and the use of one, two , or three white walls nearby. One shot to show the flash "direct to face" and the other shot to show "flash pointed at wall."
Finally, was the second image shot using the flash method described in my original post?
Great post Steady. I don't have a SP so I might just give this a try. I'm feeling the anxiety already about being in front of the camera! That's so new to me. Haha. If I get something that turns out half decent, I'll post it. Thanks.
Glad I found this. Looks like i'm going to be making a few attempts tonight. As you said, many have probably attempted but have given up. That would be me.
