Post Your Best Portrait Shots!

[clemmb]

Gian,


I enjoyed looking through your website although my wife did not like me looking through it. Your lighting and posing setups are first rate. I do think the photoshop to the skin and face is a little too much. Just a hair too much but they all look great. I do feel the first one here is a little inappropriate for this forum. If I were to get caught viewing it at work I could find myself in real trouble. The second one is very sexy but ok for the forum. Please keep the link to your website though so we can continue to view your work.


Mark

[DavidEccleston]

Jan liked this picture on Flickr, and it will make a nice test of the new forum:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6093/6320721490_ca3fc553db_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6320721490/)
Posing for the camera (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6320721490/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

[Sheiky]

Jan liked this picture on Flickr,
Who's Jan? :p
But yes, I think it's absolutely awesome:D I'm just a big fan of spontaneous portraits and this is simply a great one :cool:

[ddt0725]

LOL! I think it's a great spontaneous shot!! She's adorable and her fun personality shines in this shot!

[Gian Luca]

Clemb I am sorry but my last message went lost with the migration and the photo I cancelled is back. I cancel it again now.

[bgood]

I'll jump in and try my first post on the new forum. Here's a shot that I took this past weekend during a senior portrait shoot. I loved her eyes, but am interested in your thoughts on the image...

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6039/6349323380_d7e26aa85a_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/6349323380/)
Senior Portrait Saturday (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/6349323380/) by B_R_T (http://www.flickr.com/people/bthurgood/), on Flickr

[cls]

I'll jump in and try my first post on the new forum. Here's a shot that I took this past weekend during a senior portrait shoot. I loved her eyes, but am interested in your thoughts on the image...

Hi, this is a really nice portrait. Framing, expression and lighting are simply great. But, in my opinion, the opacity of some PS layer could have been reduced. One can understand the temptation of really making those eyes shine, but maybe it went a bit too far. Just my thoughts on an otherwise great portrait.

[Rocco]

I agree with CLS. Great image. Also, maybe too much on the eyes. This kind of a low contrast B&W conversion begs for subtly. Has a very soft feel. I think they eyes alone are fine. If the rest of the image had more contrast, or just clipped blacks they'd fit right in.

Really think it's a good one though, for sure.

[Mark Elberson]

97

[Sean Setters]

Great shot Mark. I really like that one.

[Mark Elberson]

Great shot Mark. I really like that one.

Thanks Sean. Seems like babies are all I shoot these days! There must be something in the water :-)

[Sean Setters]

Taking pictures of babies isn't too terribly difficult, is it? I know I've regretted nearly every 2-6 year old shoot...

[rlriii13]

I had a 3-shot spurt that I really liked, and while looking at them in post, I though they would make a great photo booth strip. Google led me to all kinds of advice, and I basically followed this one (http://www.shotsbyneil.com/blog/2009/01/create-a-photostrip-out-of-multiple-images/), using Photoshop's Contact Sheet II. It only took me a few minutes, and I like the results. There are plenty of ways to tweak it. I could see myself doing more of this in the future.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6019/6356586051_37e5745a5b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rlriii13/6356586051/)

[ddt0725]

Wonderful shot, Mark! I don't have much experience except for with my grandkids & I fully agree with Sean ...2 & 3 yr. olds are MUCH more difficult!

[ddt0725]

Love the photo strip idea! I am going to have to take a look at that, thanks for including the link! It definitely works very well for the shots you posted!

[Mark Elberson]

Taking pictures of babies isn't too terribly difficult, is it? I know I've regretted nearly every 2-6 year old shoot...


Wonderful shot, Mark! I don't have much experience except for with my grandkids & I fully agree with Sean ...2 & 3 yr. olds are MUCH more difficult!

To take a good picture of a newborn is much more difficult than a 2-6 year-old in my experience. I almost exclusively shoot children. In the past two years I've shot about two dozen children's portrait sessions and about one dozen newborn sessions. Lighting a newborn is easy because it's pretty much like shooting still life. Getting both the pose and perspective right can be very challenging. I still learn something every time I shoot a newborn and it never has to do with f-stops, lighting ratios, etc. When you get it right though it's very satisfying as you know that you are capturing a moment that is the most fleeting. I have a new 6-week-old of my own and you can almost watch her grow!

[bgood]

Hi, this is a really nice portrait. Framing, expression and lighting are simply great. But, in my opinion, the opacity of some PS layer could have been reduced. One can understand the temptation of really making those eyes shine, but maybe it went a bit too far. Just my thoughts on an otherwise great portrait.

Thanks. I'll look at the b&w conversion and darken the blue layer a bit or maybe try the other suggestion to use a level adjustment and clip the blacks just a bit. Thanks for the critique.

[DLS]

I have a new 6-week-old of my own and you can almost watch her grow!

Well said Mark - me too! My daughter is 6 weeks old today and my wife and I have tried a couple of photo sessions......very challenging to say the least. The timing has to be perfect. We find outselves setting up.....then waiting until she is ready, ha ha. What a challenge. Here's one from 2 weeks ago....

I used natural light from windows camera left and bounced flash off the white ceiling, 430EX. A few touch-ups in LR3 to lessen any harsh shadows and soften the image a bit.


C&C welcome everyone. As you can imagine, I have no clue if I'm on the right track or not. Thanks in advance. I think my biggest flaw is DOF - I think I needed a bit more....

101

Cheers,

Damian

[DLS]

I had a 3-shot spurt that I really liked, and while looking at them in post, I though they would make a great photo booth strip.

Great shots, well done. You captured 3 great emotions that any parent would love!

Cheers,

Damian

[Kayaker72]

Damian...beautiful pic of your daughter.

[Gian Luca]

Shanti, 1Ds MKIII + 70-200 f2.8 ISII ISO 1.600, f2.8
I have some more shots of Shanti, but some of them include Nude photos, so please do not open the gallery in case you may feel offended
http://www.juzaphoto.com/index2.php?l=it&pg=profile2&mode=viewgallerie&idutente=1156&gal=6755

http://www.juzaphoto.com/shared_files/uploads/gal6755_1156_51348.jpg

[DLS]

Thanks Brant. I like your waterfall shots in the "best current shots" thread. Looks like you live in a beautiful area.

Damian

[clemmb]

QUOTE=Gian Luca;60743]
so please do not open the gallery in case you may feel offended

[/QUOTE]
I looked, just don't tell my wife. Great work. Makes me want that 1DsIII even more.

[Gian Luca]

Thank you Mark, do not worry I will keep the secret with your wife:p

[MrGreenBug]

Indeed great photos Gian! Pretty models too. ;)

[Jayson]

Here's my little man for Xmas. He had some smiles, but this is the best one of the lot for that day.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tjqm2D7FAF8/Tt5PUIc_IWI/AAAAAAAACRU/MAWzbLp-4UQ/s800/2011_12_05_23822_1.jpg

[Steve U]

He looks like he has this Christmas racket sorted, great portrait.

[ddt0725]

Fantastic shot, Jayson! I love his expression!!

[Mark Elberson]

From a recent engagement session:

277

[clemmb]

Nice shot Mark. I like the flare.

Here are a couple of mine like this.
278
279

[Steve U]

Wow two different silohuettes and back lighting, from two different Marks, great portraits from both of you guys.

[ddt0725]

Yes, very beautiful and romantic portraits from both Marks!! I am sure the couples were very delighted when they saw how the both of you truly captured their love for each other!

[Steve U]

Christmas is a time to pause and reflect on the year that was, but it's not always easy.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6580308491_d688ca6761_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6580308491/)
Nev (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6580308491/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr
Thanks for viewing.
Steve

[ddt0725]

Wonderful capture and b&w conversion, Steve! Your caption is perfect and the photo does invoke a past reflection and thought process from the viewer!

[thekingb]

A perfect pensive pose, Steve!

[Steve U]

Thank you for the comments. Nev is my father-inlaw, a proud old bloke, who worked hard his whole life for his family and now has some even bigger battles in front of him.

[thekingb]

Two of the three most important people in my life! 7D & EF 85 f1.8.

http://riverview.smugmug.com/Portraits/Portraits/i-JzjZmjj/0/M/IMG0132-M.jpg (http://riverview.smugmug.com/Travel/Atlanta-December-2011-1/20778152_T7rnJS#1649097297_JzjZmjj-A-LB)

[Dr Croubie]

Two of the three most important people in my life! 7D & EF 85 f1.8.

The camera and lens? What's the third? :p:p:p

[Dr Croubie]

(sorry, couldn't resist.)

Gorgeous photo though, love the kid's expression.

[thekingb]

The camera and lens? What's the third? :p:p:p

Absolutely hilarious! You sound like my wife too....

[Steve U]

That's a sweet portrait, you can feel the love.

[ddt0725]

@thekingb - Lovely portrait! Yes, you can really feel the bond between the two of them!

[Sean Setters]

Two of the three most important people in my life! 7D & EF 85 f1.8.

http://riverview.smugmug.com/Portraits/Portraits/i-JzjZmjj/0/M/IMG0132-M.jpg (http://riverview.smugmug.com/Travel/Atlanta-December-2011-1/20778152_T7rnJS#1649097297_JzjZmjj-A-LB)

Which one's the lawyer, and which one's the accountant?

[thekingb]

Which one's the lawyer, and which one's the accountant?

Well, the little one is not bad with numbers for a 4 year-old, but I wouldn't trust him with my taxes just yet. The big one happens to have a law degree and is, for sure, my counsel.

Thanks Steve, Denise and Doc! It's not easy to get a natural capture of wife and child, so I feel lucky to have captured this one.

[Sean Setters]

Here's my legal counsel--he has an economics degree from Princeton and a law degree from Vanderbilt. He's currently serving on BP's defense team. I'm thinking about having him write a demand letter to my ex-neighbors who ran off with a bottle of my laundry detergent...

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4140/4890457209_a04f7112d5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/4890457209/)
Haris: Still Looking (http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/4890457209/) by budrowilson (http://www.flickr.com/people/budrowilson/), on Flickr

[thekingb]

Here's my legal counsel--he has an economics degree from Princeton and a law degree from Vanderbilt. He's currently serving on BP's defense team. I'm thinking about having him write a demand letter to my ex-neighbors who ran off with a bottle of my laundry detergent...

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4140/4890457209_a04f7112d5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/4890457209/)
Haris: Still Looking (http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/4890457209/) by budrowilson (http://www.flickr.com/people/budrowilson/), on Flickr

Impressive credentials. My lawyer is prettier. :D

Rather than the detergent, you should get him to write a demand letter to your current neighbor for standing you up on the photo shoot.

[Sean Setters]

Impressive credentials. My lawyer is prettier. :D

Can't argue with you there.


Rather than the detergent, you should get him to write a demand letter to your current neighbor for standing you up on the photo shoot.

hehe...nice

[conropl]

Thank you for the comments. Nev is my father-inlaw, a proud old bloke, who worked hard his whole life for his family and now has some even bigger battles in front of him.

Very nice portrait.

It sounds like there is more to the story... I hope his battles work out in his favor.

[Steve U]

Very nice portrait.

It sounds like there is more to the story... I hope his battles work out in his favor.

Thank you Pat.

[Steve U]

"Yes I'm worried, you would be too."
Dawn, Nev's wife.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6603270351_31aac1cd64_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6603270351/)
Dawn (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6603270351/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr

Thanks for viewing.
Steve

[ddt0725]

A beautiful lady, Steve and they make a very nice looking couple! Did you use any type of light set-up on Dawn's photo or were you lucky enough to get perfectly even natural lighting? A very nice portrait indeed!

[Mark Elberson]

My beautiful wife :-)

Two Gridded Strip Boxes in Clamshell formation
1 Kicker camera right and behind with 45 degree reflector

[Rocco]

Snapped this one today. Was experimenting blending manual flash power with ambient. Held the flash out in front of the camera with my left arm, using the pop-up to trigger it. Sigh.. tax returns can't come fast enough.

322

This was at 1/8th power. Looking at it in post I really wish I was at 1/16th instead.

[Steve U]

A beautiful lady, Steve and they make a very nice looking couple! Did you use any type of light set-up on Dawn's photo or were you lucky enough to get perfectly even natural lighting? A very nice portrait indeed!
Thank you Denise, this was midday, natural lighting, with a light coloured reflective roof, outdoors.

[Groundfault]

Very nice work !

[Rocco]

My beautiful wife :-)

Two Gridded Strip Boxes in Clamshell formation
1 Kicker camera right and behind with 45 degree reflector

Mark,
Can you explain about what you meant about the kicker light with the reflector? I'm having a hard time visualizing that one.

[Mark Elberson]

Mark,
Can you explain about what you meant about the kicker light with the reflector? I'm having a hard time visualizing that one.
Sure thing. A kicker light is just another name for a rim light or an accent light. I used it to light her hair and add a highlight to her face. Without it her head would completely fade into the background (tonal merger). There's nothing wrong with that, but it was not the look I desired. I was using monolights and reflectors are just basic modifiers that restrict the light to a specified angle of view (like zooming on a speedlight).

[Baker]

I haven't been here in quite awhile, nor have I taken photos in quite awhile. :( I've had a lot of family things going on. But I'm back! Here is a preview from a shoot i had with a friend that I haven't seen in a long long time - It feels so good to be out with my camera taking pictures again
Taken with my 5D II and 50 1.4

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6642720279_684807540b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrishinytzke/6642720279/)

[Sean Setters]

I like it Baker. Good shot and processing.

[bouwy]

Nice shot Baker Well done

Wally

[M_Six]

Nephew and his wife and dog at Christmas.

http://bimmermail.com/Xmas2011/candl800x800.jpg

[MrGreenBug]

Have been out of the loop for awhile and here's one from a recent portrait session with my eldest daughter.. I'm pushing the limits of my 1000D/XS in terms of ISO capability.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ptCEQc8Prho/TxMUPfLufiI/AAAAAAAAQSI/goT5JbAsraw/s800/IMG_0062.jpg

1000D + Sigma 17-50mm @ 50mm, f/2.8, 1/30 sec, ISO 1600 + Yongnuo 560 in umbrella as main light + bare 580 EX II opposite of main light.

Noise reduced in LR and tweaked in GIMP.

Your C&Cs are very much welcome. Cheers!

- Angelo

[Sheiky]

Nephew and his wife and dog at Christmas.
By the look in their faces, they where definitely up to something. Cool shot;)


Have been out of the loop for awhile and here's one from a recent portrait session with my eldest daughter.
Very nice portrait Angelo. She looks like she has a great time and that's nice to watch.

[MrGreenBug]

I haven't been here in quite awhile, nor have I taken photos in quite awhile. :( I've had a lot of family things going on. But I'm back! Here is a preview from a shoot i had with a friend that I haven't seen in a long long time - It feels so good to be out with my camera taking pictures again
Taken with my 5D II and 50 1.4

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6642720279_684807540b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrishinytzke/6642720279/)

I so love this shot Baker! Was this all ambient?




Very nice portrait Angelo. She looks like she has a great time and that's nice to watch.

Thank you so much for the kind words. Yup, she did had fun until the batteries dried up on our shoot.

[Baker]

I so love this shot Baker! Was this all ambient?

Thank you :) And yes, it's natural light. I have been using natural light for almost all of my portraits recently. I really like the look it gives.

Here is another from that shoot:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6685058473_4694f7f413.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrishinytzke/6685058473/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrishinytzke/6685058473/) by Chris-Baker (http://www.flickr.com/people/chrishinytzke/), on Flickr

[clemmb]

Engagement portrait session. Two strobes used with white umbrella.
405
406
407
408
I don't know about elsewhere but in Texas it has become popular to take a piece of furniture out to a pasture for a portrait.
409

[gkphoto]

411
Canon 30d, 24-105mm, ISO100, 1/160, f5.6, 67mm

[ddt0725]

@ Mark - Faantastic composition on all of them but I love the processing of the second one in your engagement set! Also, really like the second to last shot with the horse in the background!

@gk - Very cute fall photo! You really captured the happiness of the day ...a photo to treasure!

[conropl]

...Here is another from that shoot:

Baker - The eyes are beautiful in this shot. I went to flickr and looked at the larger version, and there is a black outline around the iris of her eyes. Is this something you add in post processing?

Mark - I do like the Texas style shoot. It always looks homey and relaxed.

[ddt0725]

[QUOTE=conropl;63428]Baker - The eyes are beautiful in this shot. I went to flickr and looked at the larger version, and there is a black outline around the iris of her eyes. Is this something you add in post processing?QUOTE]

Just a guess but colored contacts does this sometimes.

[Baker]

Baker - The eyes are beautiful in this shot. I went to flickr and looked at the larger version, and there is a black outline around the iris of her eyes. Is this something you add in post processing?

The black outline is actually from me not being careful enough in photoshop when I selected the iris to brighten/sharpen it.... oops!

[patham]

A shot of my dad.
500D, 17-55 f/2.8 @ 55mm, 1/60s, ISO320

http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/9747/img7886dxo.jpg

[Rocco]

This is my daughter Sophie. Looking for a little feedback. Curious what you guys will (or won't) notice about this one.

Used my 430 ex II camera left with the Gary Fong LightSphere (love that thing).

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6835017509_234c7b7364_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/richardvier/6835017509/)
IMG_5453-2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/richardvier/6835017509/) by RVier199 (http://www.flickr.com/people/richardvier/), on Flickr

[cls]

This is my daughter Sophie. Looking for a little feedback. Curious what you guys will (or won't) notice about this one.
Hi, the first and overall impression is, of course, something like ”beautiful portrait of a pretty model”. But, since I got a feeling from your post that there could be some “secrets” about it, I put on my Sherlock glasses and had a closer look:

- The description says 430 EXII camera left, but the shadows look as if it was mainly lit from front, slightly above camera. The small but intense reflex in the center of her eyes could be on-camera flash. (The camera right shadows are less distinct and the corresponding eye reflex is not as intense.)

- Not a single hair pointing out in any direction means either an extremely well combed model or, as in this case, an extraction from the original photo put on a white background. Masking hair is a pain in…

- I get a feeling that focus hit the hand/nose rather than the eyes. It’s hard to tell from an image this size but at least that’s the impression I get. Such a difference in focus at such a small difference in distance would tell you used a wide aperture. Assuming your 17-55 stays on the camera by default, my guess would be that the photo is taken at 55mm, f/2.8.

- You named the file “…-2”. That indicates you made a second editing attempt that you are more pleased with. My guess is that in “…-1” the background looks different.

- Finally, I’m trying to figure out the reason for her somewhat aghast expression. Maybe you shaved your hair just to get the shot and revealed it just in time for the firing.;)

(Just to make things clear in case it's not obvius - I really like the portrait and my attempt to "analyze" the photo is by no means meant as negative criticism.)

[rlriii13]

Save some for the rest of us! :D I guess there's nothing else to say... wait, I do have a guess at her expression. Instead of a shaved head, I'm going to guess someone in earshot uttered a bad word.

[bouwy]

[I'm going to guess someone in earshot uttered a bad word.] LOL.. I would not be suprised.

[Rocco]

Hi, the first and overall impression is, of course, something like ”beautiful portrait of a pretty model”. But, since I got a feeling from your post that there could be some “secrets” about it, I put on my Sherlock glasses and had a closer look:

- The description says 430 EXII camera left, but the shadows look as if it was mainly lit from front, slightly above camera. The small but intense reflex in the center of her eyes could be on-camera flash. (The camera right shadows are less distinct and the corresponding eye reflex is not as intense.)

- Not a single hair pointing out in any direction means either an extremely well combed model or, as in this case, an extraction from the original photo put on a white background. Masking hair is a pain in…

- I get a feeling that focus hit the hand/nose rather than the eyes. It’s hard to tell from an image this size but at least that’s the impression I get. Such a difference in focus at such a small difference in distance would tell you used a wide aperture. Assuming your 17-55 stays on the camera by default, my guess would be that the photo is taken at 55mm, f/2.8.

- You named the file “…-2”. That indicates you made a second editing attempt that you are more pleased with. My guess is that in “…-1” the background looks different.

- Finally, I’m trying to figure out the reason for her somewhat aghast expression. Maybe you shaved your hair just to get the shot and revealed it just in time for the firing.;)

(Just to make things clear in case it's not obvius - I really like the portrait and my attempt to "analyze" the photo is by no means meant as negative criticism.)

HAHA! Well then.. heh. I did extract it from the original picture and put it on the white background. I was hoping that it wasn't SUPER obvious.. or at least well done. I think I did okay, but man.. a good backdrop with a strobe hitting it would be ideal. That took so long to make it look like it wasn't a copy/paste job.

Thanks for the compliments though guys. Love that girl.

[Rocco]

Save some for the rest of us! :D I guess there's nothing else to say... wait, I do have a guess at her expression. Instead of a shaved head, I'm going to guess someone in earshot uttered a bad word.


[I'm going to guess someone in earshot uttered a bad word.] LOL.. I would not be suprised.

I honestly have no idea! I think she was blowing me a kiss. Only thing I can figure.

She's two years old so.. the only bad word she knows is "NO". Say that to her and you'll get an expression that puts Anjelica Huston's character in The Witches to shame!

495

[neuroanatomist]

From a recent Valentine's portrait session with the girls:

"Be Mine"
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7044/6905673371_cfdee15d7f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dr_brain/6905673371/in/photostream/lightbox/)
EOS 5D Mark II, EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM @ 105mm, 1/200 s, f/9, ISO 100

"Sweet"
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7190/6905674665_4c64505916_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dr_brain/6905674665/in/photostream/lightbox/)
EOS 5D Mark II, EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM @ 105mm, 1/200 s, f/9, ISO 100

Both shots lit from camera high front/left with a PCB Einstein 640 in a 48" octabox and camera right with a 430EX II in a 24" Lastolite Ezybox. Some vignetting added in post.

Thanks for looking!

-John

[Steve U]

Lovely portraits John. Gorgeous subjects and artistic light.

[ddt0725]

John, these are fabulous! First off, I cannot believe how much they have grown in such a short amount of time since their last photos! Secondly, I think you can erase the "amateur" from your bio ...these are VERY professional looking!

Denise

[clemmb]

I think you can erase the "amateur" from your bio ...these are VERY professional looking!

Denise
I agree. Great job John

[Th3t4]

A photo of a friend in the summer
602
Digital - canon 550d 50mm 1.8 (i believe)

Caleb
603
Film - Praktica MTL3 - Ilford FP4

[bouwy]

Fantastic shots John. Beautifully excuted and I agree with Denise they are genuine Pro Shotshttp://community.the-digital-picture.com/images/icons/icon14.png

Th3t4 Love your first photo...Very nice http://community.the-digital-picture.com/images/icons/icon14.png

[Photog82]

John, excellent photos.

Here's a few of mine, I've just started to get into portrait photography, as you may be able to tell by these:

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/3476/img7523u.jpg
http://img818.imageshack.us/img818/4180/img7474g.jpg
http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/227/img7734y.jpg
http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/5016/img8925mv.jpg

[Sheiky]

Nice photos James:) I couldn't tell you just started. They look pretty good. You like to play with the vibrance/saturation sliders don't you? :DI rarely like shots that are B+W with a few colored items, but I like the ladybug-shot.

[bob williams]

John, excellent photos.

Here's a few of mine, I've just started to get into portrait photography, as you may be able to tell by these:



James, Killer job on these and for a noob in Portrait Photography ---well, lets just say you have the knack and I am envious. I could see parents paying a lot of money for shots like these.

The first shot---Love it, what a smile you captured on this little girl and the mix and vividness of the colors are outstanding, the only critique I can offer is maybe tighten up on the crop just a little, but not too much--you still want to keep much of the tree and leaves in the pic.

Second Shot: Perfect don't touch it. Very sharp face with the leaves in action and again gorgeous colors and great crop.

Third Shot: Love the way you did the black and white with the ladybug in color and I really like this crop as well. I also like the ladybug being the focal point----it just works----Frame this one.

Last shot----Great framing, back ground and pose---and of course, wonderful subject with a another great smile. The only comment I have for this one is the lighting is a little harsh and appears that it was camera mounted; try practicing with your flash off camera or bouncing it of the wall or cieling.

Again, Great series and beautiful model---very, very nice work.

Bob

[conropl]

John, excellent photos.

Here's a few of mine, I've just started to get into portrait photography, as you may be able to tell by these:

+1 with all of Bob's comments. Great set.

Welcome to the forum.

[Photog82]

Thanks everyone for the nice comments. Bob, the last shot, I agree with you, unfortunatley that day she wasn't co-operating as much as she was in the first set of photos. I want to buy a speed light so that I can bounce the light off of the ceiling. I just purchased a 7-in-1 light reflector as well which I'm looking forward to trying. I normally don't like B&W shots for portraits however I thougt it'd be neat to focas on the lady bug.

[Steve U]

Really nice series of portraits James and welcome aboard.

[ddt0725]

Welcome, James!! I think you did a fantastic job on these photos ...they sure look like you have been doing this for awhile! With such a willing model, I think you are going to be able to get a great deal of practice time in! I am looking forward to seeing more in the future!

I have been debating for awhile now on which 5-in-1 or 7-in-1 reflector to get. Which one did you get and would love to get your opinion of it.

Denise

[thekingb]

Beautiful James. My fav is the first shot. Welcome to the TDP forum.

[Photog82]

Welcome, James!! I think you did a fantastic job on these photos ...they sure look like you have been doing this for awhile! With such a willing model, I think you are going to be able to get a great deal of practice time in! I am looking forward to seeing more in the future!

I have been debating for awhile now on which 5-in-1 or 7-in-1 reflector to get. Which one did you get and would love to get your opinion of it.

Denise
I have this one (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/736126-REG/Impact_R_7142_Hollywood_Combo_Light_Studio.html), however I don't think I'll ever use the green/blue screen and am going to see if they'll exchange it for the 5-in-1 version. I like it so far, but you need adequate light elsewhere for it to reflect properly which I'm sure you know.

[Mark Elberson]

636

[Mark Elberson]

638

[ddt0725]

Both shots are truly fantastic, Mark! I was just looking through your website and your work is so remarkable, every shot shows such creativity from props, lighting, composition, depth of field. I love your work!!!

[Mark Elberson]

Wow 😊 Thanks so much Denise!!!!!!

[NFLD Stephen]

636

Love this shot Mark! Was this set up or just spur-of-the-moment?

Stephen

[Mark Elberson]

Love this shot Mark! Was this set up or just spur-of-the-moment?

Stephen

Spur of the moment. She was on her mat and looking terribly cute so I grabbed my camera and got on the floor with her :-)

Thanks!

[Steve U]

Spur of the moment. She was on her mat and looking terribly cute so I grabbed my camera and got on the floor with her :-)

Thanks!
C'mon Mark all brides look cute sitting on their mats. ;)
Seriously, I really like the the clever DOF you selected, the perfect framing of those baby blues on the top third and that expression is a beauty.
BTW, the bride is a really good B&W image as well.

[NFLD Stephen]

Spur of the moment. She was on her mat and looking terribly cute so I grabbed my camera and got on the floor with her :-)

Those are often the best shots! Do you mind if I ask how you got the background so white? I think having the background free from other clutter/distractions adds so much to the effect created by the "dreamy" DOF and great expression on her face! Was there coincidentally a white wall behind her?

[Mark Elberson]

Those are often the best shots! Do you mind if I ask how you got the background so white? I think having the background free from other clutter/distractions adds so much to the effect created by the "dreamy" DOF and great expression on her face! Was there coincidentally a white wall behind her?
Yep, that's my family room's white wall, but it was not by accident. I always try to eliminate distractions when composing. There was an outlet just out of frame to the left and a table to the right. I shot this at 50mm f/2.

[Mark Elberson]

C'mon Mark all brides look cute sitting on their mats. ;)
Seriously, I really like the the clever DOF you selected, the perfect framing of those baby blues on the top third and that expression is a beauty.
BTW, the bride is a really good B&W image as well.

Thanks Steve :-) I could stare at those baby blues all day!

[Steve U]

Don't even talk to me until....
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7199/6965327411_78314c8585_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6965327411/)
Not till I've had a coffee... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6965327411/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr
Thanks for viewing.

[bouwy]

Beautiful shots Mark Well done....
Steve what can I say....That shot has Perfect framing, Perfect composition, Perfect dof, Perfect everything. As matter of interest, was the Lady someone you use to know....LOL :D

[Steve U]

That ain't no lady that's my wife!:o
Thanks a lot Wally.

[conropl]

:D
That ain't no lady that's my wife!:o


:D:D:D:D LOL

That is a bore through your soul look that only a wife can give.:eek:

[Sheiky]

We where looking through some older photos when we passed this shot. My girlfriend insists that I share this shot, because she claims that I always make this face when being the co-driver. I really don't... I think:o
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7199/6826645114_f16424d4a5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/janpaalman/6826645114/)
Scary times driving with her:p

[bouwy]

WOW...Something is going to happen.... :confused:

[Rocco]

I'm more interested in that car.. Looks clean!

[Sheiky]

Take a guess;)

WOW...Something is going to happen.... http://community.the-digital-picture.com/images/smilies/confused.png
In this scene she probably didn't have the strength to steer with one arm or was too late brakinghttp://community.the-digital-picture.com/images/smilies/tongue.png

[Steve U]

Are you sure she's not checking her breath for alcohol?;)
Random breath testing.
Or she looks like she might even be scaring herself.
It's a great shot Jan.

[DavidEccleston]

Nice shot Jan. Did she run a stop sign? Run over a pedestrian? We may never know. ;)

Here's a couple of portraits from our walk in the woods. The wildlife was, pretty much, all still asleep somewhere.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7064/6974213295_21318e0f3a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6974213295/)
Magda (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6974213295/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7203/6974213007_1bcb899b41_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6974213007/)
Bella (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6974213007/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

[Sheiky]

Great shots David! Great spontaneous posing and you sure have some nice bokeh there. Also like the processing you've done.
The teeth are almost there:o

Thanks for the comments guys! Steve I'm pretty sure this was before we has wine, but it might as well be afterwards:confused: David, "Run a stopsign, Run a pedestrian?" These things may have been happening, but definitely not in a running pace:p The '67 VW Beetle is not that fast hehe!

[DavidEccleston]

The post processing done is "Cross processing". You can do this in anything that lets you edit the curves for each channel separately. This site describes it's done (http://www.photographymad.com/pages/view/digital-cross-processing-in-photoshop). Basically it emulates when you develop film of one type with chemicals meant for another type of film. Adjust the curves however you like to get a variety of different feels.

[Sheiky]

Cool thanks for the link David! I must admit that I have quite a few choices of cross processing on Alien Exposure 3. But to be honest they don't look at all like this. I quickly tried out your method on this shot. I like the idea. I'm definitely going to play with it sometime.

[DavidEccleston]

I find that after applying the curves (and I usually leave blue pretty much alone), I'll go back and tweak the white balance so the hue is more natural, you just get heaps of contrast. While the first one below didn't necessarily require extra contrast, on the second one, it really helped make the sand pop out from the background.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6845239022_b81cb5f513_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6845239022/)
Swing (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6845239022/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6991367025_7cffec40a9_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6991367025/)
Sand (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/6991367025/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

[Steve U]

Nice treatment Jan.
Good images Dave, you are right the sand is really popping in that last one, it's a great capture.

[Sheiky]

Thanks Steve. It was just a quick test to see the cross-processing thing.
Thanks for the white balance tip David! Your photos look fantastic. Not just the post-processing but also the photo in general. Great shots!

[DavidEccleston]

Thanks Steve and Jan.

[bgood]

After a bit of discussion I talked my son into posing for me. Here's one where we went for the tough guy look. Text obviously added in post. Used three lights - main light camera center and higher above him through a soft box and two bare lights at 45's behind him, both gelled red. On second thought I probably should have put them through umbrellas. Oh well, live and learn...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6699502439_292be78a31_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/6699502439/)
Soccer Game Face (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/6699502439/) by B_R_T (http://www.flickr.com/people/bthurgood/), on Flickr

[bgood]

Here's another attempt. This time it was part of a senior portrait shoot (my first one).

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6861609618_26f854ae59_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/6861609618/)
Senior Saturday Part Two (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/6861609618/) by B_R_T (http://www.flickr.com/people/bthurgood/), on Flickr

[DavidEccleston]

Both are great shots Brian

[Sheiky]

Indeed...great photos Brian! For a first time senior portrait it looks very good! By the way what's up with the lips (watermark?) in the second photo?

[bgood]

Thanks. The lips were all her's. I didn't do anything to them. As for the watermark, I have been adding those to my flickr photos as a meager attempt to discourage copying them.

[Sheiky]

Lol I bet she has her own lips, but we are talking about the watermark lips in her neck right? Or do you mean your name-tag watermark?

[ddt0725]

I was staring at her actually lips wondering what the heck you were talking about, Jan! Now I see what you mean on her neck and partly on her jacket lapel. Looks like maybe the area was missed with the brush(?) You have a VERY keen eye, Jan!

[Sheiky]

Yes it's hard to overlook I guess ;) The shape actually looks really similar to her real lips. It's probably just lip-flare.
I don't know if I'm right, but if this isn't a watermark on purpose. It might be a forgotten selection. Perhaps Brian adjusted the lips selectively and accidentally moved his selection over some other layers... I don't know. I do want to know though...Brian?:rolleyes:

[bgood]

OK, you got me. Nice catch. I honestly missed it. I went back to check on where it came from and it was a layer that I was applying to everything but her lips and somehow ended up copying that mask twice. I wish I could claim it as a watermark, but sadly, no, it's just a flub. Luckily, she hasn't picked her photos yet and I have already fixed it. Thanks again for catching it. I knew there was a good reason to throw an image or two on here!!! I updated it and hopefully don't have lips in other places they shouldn't be. :rolleyes:

[clemmb]

Did some engagements this week
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7076/6863919332_d5a82cdb33_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/6863919332/)
IMG_0025 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/6863919332/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7176/6863921568_7b7fd13eda_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/6863921568/)
IMG_0122a (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/6863921568/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7099/7010034649_777c70dcb1_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7010034649/)
IMG_0089a (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7010034649/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7129/7010035825_f8ab1f5796_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7010035825/)
IMG_0182a (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7010035825/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7105/7010033563_d535904cba_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7010033563/)
IMG_0042 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7010033563/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

[Sheiky]

Nice set of photos Mark! You sure have some tough customers. Hats are my absolute nightmare:p I've messed up quite some sports-photos where they had hats on.

[Rocco]

Well, like Sean I prefer to not do kids. Sometimes my gas tank says otherwise and I take a commission for them. Here's a couple of my favorites from today's shoot.

771

772

Obviously, he's missing a shoe here. It was impossible to keep it on him. In this one I faked the expression by having his mother yank the shoe from his hands and I took the shot before the tears. Gotta do what you can, right?

[rlriii13]

Nice Rocco. What were the specs on the first shot?

As for the shoe - I think it's a great detail that the mother will look back on and laugh.

[clemmb]

Some family portraits

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7268/7049672999_8dd0a2f51c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7049672999/)
IMG_0032_pp (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7049672999/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5457/7049669379_c8213b862c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7049669379/)
IMG_0027_pp (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7049669379/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7048/7049662401_408cbe1370_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7049662401/)
IMG_0020_pp (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7049662401/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

[nvitalephotography]

I went to a photo shoot held by a local photography group. I got my first chance to work models. I also got to use some off camera lighting for the first time, which was a big motivator to getting my flash off camera. So that might be my next photography purchase

here are a few shots from the evening(more on flickr). let me know how to improve them.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7139/7053584489_d88dab9f6c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/7053584489/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7228/6907495984_ffefb7e3e3_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/6907495984/)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5443/7053588403_5fc533d5de_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/7053588403/)


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7056/7053585355_c49470cacd_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/7053585355/)

[bouwy]

Great shots Nick. Well done

[Steve U]

Really like that last one Mark, great natural easy feel to it, nice moment.
Nick, nice series of shots my favourites are number 2 and 3, very good lighting in all them to my eye.

[Mark Elberson]

799

[Sean Setters]

Very cute indeed. :-)

[bouwy]

Nice one Mark.

[bgood]

Great lighting Mark. Makes for a great shot.

[Dave Johnston]

Did a family session this morning. First real shoot with my 5D III. Worked well.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5468/6930920468_0709259f20_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/6930920468/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/6930920468/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D mkIII + 85mm f1.8 @ f1.8 1/400 ISO-100

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5160/6930920202_6280cb1ef3_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/6930920202/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/6930920202/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D mkIII + 85mm f1.8 @ f1.8 1/400 ISO-100

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5345/7076998859_407e174a67_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7076998859/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7076998859/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D mkIII + 85mm f1.8 @ f1.8 1/320 ISO-160

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/7076998657_c7c59fedf7_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7076998657/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7076998657/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D mkIII + 85mm f1.8 @ f4.0 1/250 ISO-640

Thanks for looking, critiquing.

Dave.

[Sheiky]

Great set Dave!

@Rocco, I really like your second shot. It's just looks so fresh and crisp? Sorry cannot think of a better word for it, but I like it ;)

[clemmb]

Horsing Around with Senior Portraits

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5117/7097613117_bdc8eef9af_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097613117/)
IMG_0029as (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097613117/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5469/7097672885_e57a072b48_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097672885/)
IMG_0139_pp (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097672885/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5334/7097623835_e37c9d9e29_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097623835/)
IMG_0051a (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097623835/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7187/6951625940_34f42da0f3_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/6951625940/)
IMG_0187_pp (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/6951625940/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5194/7097699845_8a2d2ce21c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097699845/)
IMG_0195 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7097699845/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

[Steve U]

Great series Dave, really like the 2 B&W's.
@Mark, professional set Mark, I really like 2 and 4, exposure, beautiful relaxed model, great work.

[Steve U]

Are you looking at me?
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8142/7104283347_c7e8981b6a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7104283347/)
Are you looking at me? (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7104283347/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr
Thanks for viewing.

[Photog82]

SteveU, great model and lighting for the setting. I'm sure you had a good time there, I've yet to attend a Comic type convention... there's always on the west coast and I live on the east.


I'm not sure if these qualify as portraits in the traditional sense, but I like to think that these capture these people in their natural, having fun state.

What do you think?

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7056/7106214423_b68477b024_b.jpg (http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7056/7106214423_b68477b024_b.jpg)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8017/7105960105_97d9ecacd3_b.jpg (http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8017/7105960105_97d9ecacd3_b.jpg)
The original photo and print show great detail on his beard and water


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7125/6959890230_02928cf27b_b.jpg (http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7125/6959890230_02928cf27b_b.jpg)

[Steve U]

Great expressions and excellent captures James, the bottom two are definitely portraits.
One from Anzac Day today, where we remember and honour those who served and strived for our freedom.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/7112181685_25ff607f3f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7112181685/)
Lest We Forget (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7112181685/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr
Thanks for viewing.

[Rocco]

Great expressions and excellent captures James, the bottom two are definitely portraits.
One from Anzac Day today, where we remember and honour those who served and strived for our freedom.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/7112181685_25ff607f3f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7112181685/)
Lest We Forget (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7112181685/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr
Thanks for viewing.

Nice! Old people make for the best B&W conversions. Well done.

[Rocco]

Nice Rocco. What were the specs on the first shot?

As for the shoe - I think it's a great detail that the mother will look back on and laugh.

Bah! I sorry so slow at replying.

This was the EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 on my 7D - @f/2.8, 1/200 sec., ISO 400, 33mm with my Tiffen HT CPL. Was using a disc reflector as well, but I don't think I did for this shot. He started to crawl around so I was rolling around all commando style.



@Rocco, I really like your second shot. It's just looks so fresh and crisp? Sorry cannot think of a better word for it, but I like it ;)

Yeah! I was going for that spring look. It was the first really nice day we had here.

Here are a couple from a session I had on Monday.

956

958

959

[Steve U]

Here are a couple from a session I had on Monday.





959

Really great set Rocco, hadn't spotted these ones before. This one is my favourite, oozes playfullness and some sexy tension, beautiful portrait.

[Steve U]

Another older chap in B&W, they do tend to wear their story on their face when processed in B&W.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7073/6987353920_66cf52a8ed_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6987353920/)
Lest We Forget_9 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/6987353920/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr
Thanks for viewing.

[clemmb]

Did some engagements yesterday.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7105/7239101580_588804ef8f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7239101580/)
Image_0104 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7239101580/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5442/7239103276_fc61d9bda5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7239103276/)
Image_0066a (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7239103276/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

You can see more on Flicker.

[Jayson]

Here are my little men. Took three different pictures to get all of them smiling and looking at the camera. It is definitely harder to take pictures of your own kids by yourself. This was for Mother's Day.

[nvitalephotography]

went and participated in another photoshoot for some more practice photographing people...What I learned is that I need to work on my posing people skills.

Heres one of my favorites from the day.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7236/7257605786_2947976c3c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/7257605786/)

[clemmb]

A friend came over needing some headshots
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8165/7383012402_e35cb9475d_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7383012402/)
IMG_0001 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7383012402/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8013/7383011154_6290281211_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7383011154/)
IMG_0005 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7383011154/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5338/7383013716_209599c9d6_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7383013716/)
IMG_0009 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/7383013716/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr

[Steve U]

Nice series Mark, she should be happy with these.
Nice exposure on the face Nick, strong confident pose, good with a pretty model.

[Sean Setters]

Agreed. Good series.

[Mpieris]

Okay here are a few of mine... Please critique away

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mazing_pictures/7484209044/in/photostream/lightbox/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mazing_pictures/7484115430/in/photostream/lightbox/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mazing_pictures/7484097622/in/photostream/lightbox/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mazing_pictures/7484087012/in/photostream/lightbox/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mazing_pictures/7484074740/in/photostream/lightbox/

[Sheiky]

There's not much to critique...great set of photos!
You can very easily share them by BBcode by the way.

[Jonathan]

Mpieris,

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.

Love 'em all. Very engaging images.

Since you wish a critique, I would only say that the first portrait appears flat in an unflattering way. Better light play would have enhanced it, I think.

[Mpieris]

There's not much to critique...great set of photos!
You can very easily share them by BBcode by the way.

Thanks for the feedback. I'm not familiar with BBcode. Is there an easier way to share the photo from my iPad? I use it more frequently and the only way I found to do it was upload the image to Flickr and then share the link.

[Mpieris]

Mpieris,

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.

Love 'em all. Very engaging images.

Since you wish a critique, I would only say that the first portrait appears flat in an unflattering way. Better light play would have enhanced it, I think.

Thanks for the feedback Jonathan. I see what you mean in the first photo. Cheers!

[Mpieris]

[QUOTE=nvitalephotography;70165]went and participated in another photoshoot for some more practice photographing people...What I learned is that I need to work on my posing people skills.

I like this photo and the pose seems fine to me. The only thing that is a little distracting to me is the gate/barrier behind her. It's not straight in some places. It doesn't look quite right.

[conropl]

Thanks for the feedback. I'm not familiar with BBcode. Is there an easier way to share the photo from my iPad? I use it more frequently and the only way I found to do it was upload the image to Flickr and then share the link.

Open your Photo Stream
Scroll through the thumb nails and click on the photo you want to post so it is being viewed
Above the photo being viewed is a drop down arrow that says "Share".
Three methods of sharing will show up. They are: "Share this via...", "Grab the link" and "Grab the HTML/BBCode"
Click on "Grab the HTML/BBCode"
At the bottom, select "BBCode"
In the drop down arrow choose the size of picture you want to post. It shows pixel size (I usually choose 800 pixels wide).
Then right mouse click on the code in the text box and the whole mess will highlight and you can click "copy".
Now all you have to do is go to your post... right mouse click and click on the "paste" selection.
The code will now show in the post, and when you submit or post, then the photo will show up at the size you chose. If you do this in Advanced Posting, then you can preview before posting.

[bob williams]

Well, under duress, I was talked in to shooting people--The parents of my future grandchild---Anyway, Knowing that I don't shoot people, they talked me in to it any way, and this was the result--Please feel free to critique my first serious people shot.

http://rwilliamsimaging.com/img/s2/v51/p772206589-4.jpg

7d, 50 1.2L, one light flash and umbrella to the left, black background
F4, 1/1000, ISO 100, Flash at ETTL---I know, the settings don't make sense, but really, this is what they were.

[Mpieris]

Open your Photo Stream
Scroll through the thumb nails and click on the photo you want to post so it is being viewed
Above the photo being viewed is a drop down arrow that says "Share".
Three methods of sharing will show up. They are: "Share this via...", "Grab the link" and "Grab the HTML/BBCode"
Click on "Grab the HTML/BBCode"
At the bottom, select "BBCode"
In the drop down arrow choose the size of picture you want to post. It shows pixel size (I usually choose 800 pixels wide).
Then right mouse click on the code in the text box and the whole mess will highlight and you can click "copy".
Now all you have to do is go to your post... right mouse click and click on the "paste" selection.
The code will now show in the post, and when you submit or post, then the photo will show up at the size you chose. If you do this in Advanced Posting, then you can preview before posting.

Thanks but this looks to be instructions for the computer. I don't think it will work from the iPad, which is what I use more frequently.

[Sean Setters]

Well, under duress, I was talked in to shooting people--The parents of my future grandchild---Anyway, Knowing that I don't shoot people, they talked me in to it any way, and this was the result--Please feel free to critique my first serious people shot.

http://rwilliamsimaging.com/img/s2/v51/p772206589-4.jpg

7d, 50 1.2L, one light flash and umbrella to the left, black background
F4, 1/1000, ISO 100, Flash at ETTL---I know, the settings don't make sense, but really, this is what they were.

I like the idea and I think it's decently executed as is. I know it's a one light portrait, but I do wish there was some separation light for the father's hair. His light colored shirt separates his back and shoulder from the background, so it's only his hair that needed the light. The only other thing that might have aided the portrait was doing the session slightly earlier in the pregnancy. There's an ideal window to do maternity portraits. One maternity photographer put it to me this way, "There are stages to pregnancy--from glowing, to showing, to beautiful bump, to get this thing out of me!"

Keep in mind, most [especially first-time] mothers don't know when they will actually pass the beautiful bump phase and usually put off scheduling their appointments until the last phase has already begun (I've done several in this phase). :-)

[cowmao]

My wife doesn't want pictures of our daughters plastered all over the internet, which is most of the pictures I take. But, I think this one is safe. It's a portrait in that she is posing for it, and we happened to be sharing the park worker's umbrella a few feet away from her. It's not a lucky shot either. She purposely stood there for multiple takes.

Elmo's Forest of Fun at Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.

http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-6tjHM63/0/XL/IMG3756DPPc-XL.jpg

I darkened it to bring out the water, but it looks very underexposed on my screen now.

[ahab1372]

Thanks but this looks to be instructions for the computer. I don't think it will work from the iPad, which is what I use more frequently.
It should work on the iPad too, unless flickr gives you the mobile view. Unfortunately there is no way to change back to full view (at least I haven't found it - flickr, shame on you).
On my iPhone I get around it by using a different browser (icab) which flickr does not recognize as a mobile browser, thus I get the full view.

Arnt

[VictorVIR]

hello..I am photographer from Indonesia.. :D

[Alicia N]

Beautiful flower girl waiting for the bride to get ready. Not sure how to post a bigger pic. Click to see larger.

1285

[Sheiky]

Nice shot Alicia. Also... welcome to the club ;)

[andnowimbroke]

Very nice shot. Doesn't hurt to have a cute model either.

[ddt0725]

Beautiful flower girl waiting for the bride to get ready. Not sure how to post a bigger pic. Click to see larger.

1285

Wonderful portrait of a beautiful little girl!

Welcome to the forums, Alicia!

Denise

[bouwy]

Great shot Alicia

Welcome and I look forward to see more shots

Wally

[bgood]

Here's an attempt at high key from this weekend. Have to thank my daughter for again being patient with Dad.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7277/7660102530_676d2ed27b_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/7660102530/)
The Eyes (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bthurgood/7660102530/) by B_R_T (http://www.flickr.com/people/bthurgood/), on Flickr

[bouwy]

Great work Brian. I know what it's like for kids to sit still and act normal (LOL) for more than three seconds....This my take.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7280/7439325508_d8c82fa044_z.jpg

Thank you for viewing

[thekingb]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7280/7439325508_d8c82fa044_z.jpg



Love the lighting Wally! Great capture.

[bgood]

Great work Brian. I know what it's like for kids to sit still and act normal (LOL) for more than three seconds....This my take.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7280/7439325508_d8c82fa044_z.jpg

Thank you for viewing



I agree, the lighting is great. Nice work. Did you use a gridded light to get this?

[bouwy]

I agree, the lighting is great. Nice work. Did you use a gridded light to get this?Thanks Guys for the nice feed back. I used Canon 580EX flash with a diffuser on it.

[Steve U]

Beautiful portrait Wally.
Still exploring hair colours here, in the midday sun, used my flash but there was no way I could dissolve those shadows.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8431/7721243976_cbc63be21f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7721243976/)
Greazefest2012_8 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/steves_life/7721243976/) by Steve's Life (http://www.flickr.com/people/steves_life/), on Flickr

Thanks for viewing.

[bouwy]

Brilliant shot Steve. Mixture of contrast and colours are beautifully captured

[Local Hero]

Here are a couple portraits I've taken recently. The first one is a friends sister who recently got married, second one is a family friend and co-worker, and the third is childhood friend who just pasted her boards to be a physician assistant.

http://patricklandy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Landy-1732.jpg

http://patricklandy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_1521.jpg

http://patricklandy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7494.jpg

[Steve U]

Welcome to the forums, Hero. Great professional looking protraits. Lighting is spot on.

[Local Hero]

Welcome to the forums, Hero. Great professional looking protraits. Lighting is spot on.

Thanks. I stumbled across the site this morning and I've spent the better part of the day reading reviews on the site and topics in the forum.

All three of the shots were done with a single speedlite (either a 430EX II or a 600EX-RT) with a shoot through umbrella triggered by a Canon 60D wirelessly, I love that feature of the camera.

[ddt0725]

Welcome, Hero ...these portraits are absolutely fantastic! Very well done!

[clemmb]

Great shots Hero. Welcome to the forum.
I see you are from Tallahassee. I graduated highschool and college there.:cool:

[Local Hero]

Great shots Hero. Welcome to the forum.
I see you are from Tallahassee. I graduated highschool and college there.:cool:

Go Noles! ;)

[bouwy]

Great shots Patrick....Look forward to more:)

[Dave Johnston]

Aye Carumba, Steve!

Welcome, Patrick! Like the 2nd shot best. Great work on all of them! I've got friends from tallahasee that live up in NC where I went to college. Went to school for mechanical engineering, now they own a beer brewery... guess all that drinking we did paid off in some way.


Dave

[Local Hero]

I'd just like to say thanks to everyone for the warm welcome. I'm looking forward to interacting with people equally addicted and fascinated with photography. My wife can only take so much of me talking about it before she stops pay attention. ;)

[Dave Johnston]

Took some shots of friends for their baby turning 3 months. We had been taking them here in SC for maternity and newborn, but since we were all going to be in KC for a minute, I figured there was as good a place as any to get them!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7253/7770386674_84d1e2123a_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770386674/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770386674/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D III + 85 f1.8 @ f9 1/125 ISO-250

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8291/7770429768_e9d4b68e3f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770429768/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770429768/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D III + 50 1.8 @ f8.0 1/125 ISO-250
This was two shot blend done with some layer masking in photoshop. The buildings were about 2-3 stops too bright for the subjects to be a proper exposure.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7770421628_5b7c2458eb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770421628/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770421628/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D III + 50 1.8 @ f1.8 1/500 ISO-100
Probably my favorite of the bunch.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8287/7770413466_0fd069d41b_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770413466/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770413466/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D III + 50 1.8 @ f1.8 1/2000 ISO-100

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7272/7770407814_5d9f0bdea8.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770407814/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770407814/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D III + 50 1.8 @ f1.8 1/640 ISO-100

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8285/7770400752_fababd7971_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770400752/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770400752/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D III + 50 1.8 @ f1.8 1/1600 ISO-100

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8304/7770394268_1d7c1c4883_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770394268/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pairodocs/7770394268/) by johnstondox (http://www.flickr.com/people/pairodocs/), on Flickr
5D III + 50 1.8 @ f2 1/1250 ISO-100

Sorry, big post. Thanks for looking.

Dave.

[Steve U]

Nice ones Dave, i like the second one and the last one the best.

[Local Hero]

I'm with Steve, I like the second one the best. Seeing those pictures reminded me of this one I took of my son when he was about that age, 4 or 5 months old. My wife, son, and I sneaked into the football stadium early on a Saturday morning to get a picture of him on the field. We had planned on him sitting next to the helmet but as soon as we set him down he rolled over and assumed the position of doing push-ups.

http://patricklandy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Landy-1957.jpg

[Steve U]

Give me 20. He looks serious, he probably thinks those shoes are inappropriate for a workout. Nice pic.:)

[Steve in HB]

Boy. I had to swallow hard before I posted this question. I haven't been able to access any of the photos. All of the links start out like this (or some variation) [img]/cfs...and so on. It's not showing up as a "link" so how do I access the body of work?

Thanks! :'(

[ahab1372]

Steve (Slim),
I think you are looking at older posts. The forum was migrated to a new platform, and links to images directly uploaded into the forum software broke. Links to external pages (flickr etc.) were not affected. Links to new images uploaded directly into the forum platform do work. I think the cutoff date was some time in 2011

HTH,
Arnt

[andnowimbroke]

Lots of old topics/posts are truncated too, so if it seems like a post is short or has little knowledge added to it, that could be the problem as well (or it was one of my posts) and just ask agai

See what I did there :)

[Dave Throgmartin]

Boy. I had to swallow hard before I posted this question. I haven't been able to access any of the photos. All of the links start out like this (or some variation) [img]/cfs...and so on. It's not showing up as a "link" so how do I access the body of work?

Thanks! :'(

Slim this is a pretty friendly forum. There's no need to swallow hard before posting just about anything!

Dave

[Mark Elberson]

From a wedding I shot this past weekend

5DIII + 85mm f/1.2L @ f/2

1404

[Steve U]

It looks pretty bright and sunny there, nice exposure on her face. You must be happy with that lens and camera combo.:p

[clemmb]

I recently attended a model photo shoot sponsored by Sigma. They had 8 backdrops set up. 4 of the setups were continuous daylights with large soft boxes. 3 of the setups were tungsten. The 8th setup was strobe for shooting with their Sigma SD1 Merrill. I was disappointed that the setups were like this. The lighting was such that I had to shoot ISO 800 with lens wide open to get a decent shutter speed. If I am shooting wide open I want it because that's the depth of field I want, not just so I can get a good shutter speed. I asked one of the PROs that was there to help if she shoots like this professionally. As expected she told me she uses strobes for better control and lower ISO. I know part of the reason is it is difficult to allow 80 or 100 photographers to use strobes with their own cameras but I also think part of it is to sell people on their Sigma SD1 Merril. Each shooting setup had 12 to 15 photographers crowded in front of the model pushing trying to get the best spot for the capture. When those less experienced photographers get home and look at their photos at ISO 800 wide open and compare with the images shot on the Sigma at ISO 100 f\9 they will see a big difference and think they want to switch to the Sigma SD1.
Sigma had several lenses we could barrow. I barrowed the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM. Seems like a nice lens for the price but as I go through the images I feel that the focus was not consistent.
The models themselves were great. Beautiful and good at posing in many different ways. Here are a few of mine from the shoot.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8453/8005060253_ce56eb4524.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005060253/)
IMG-0743 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005060253/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8172/8005075049_510753f700.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005075049/)
IMG-0522 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005075049/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8443/8005063906_ca34876091.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005063906/)
IMG-0435 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005063906/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8437/8005063803_e1f201d669.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005063803/)
IMG-0328 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005063803/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8031/8005065455_ea8b4611b1.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005065455/)
IMG-0136 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005065455/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8460/8005067255_a9a7c80f19.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005067255/)
IMG-1174 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005067255/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8038/8005071658_53bf791548.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005071658/)
IMG-0954 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/8005071658/) by clemmb60 (http://www.flickr.com/people/markclemphotography/), on Flickr
See more here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/markclemphotography/sets/72157631578912657/)

[Steve U]

Great series Mark. Beautiful colour rendering and light across the whole set. I can see why Denise loves her Sigma glass.
But looking at your exif data did you use the 70-300L?

Do you always have beautiful girls falling at your feet like that?

About the only thing you needed at this shoot, was a wingman.:cool:

[clemmb]

Do you always have beautiful girls falling at your feet like that?


I wish:rolleyes:


About the only thing you needed at this shoot, was a wingman.:cool:
You wish ;) LOL

[clemmb]

But looking at your exif data did you use the 70-300L?


I took around 1300 images that day. I used a Sigma for some. used my Tamron 70-300 for some and my 24-105 for some.
I used the Tamron on the one you liked on flicker:)

[Steph]

Very nice set Mark and gorgeous subjects.

[Jayson]

Mark, great set of images! Beautiful models as well! I really like your processing on these as well. Did you use anything special for skin smoothing?

I bet it was challenging with so many photographers there getting into the right spot. Nice work on pushing your way around since it seems you had a great spot for each of them! ;)

[ddt0725]

Very nice series, Mark and yes, looks like you managed to get a prime shooting spot in all of them!

[DavidEccleston]

Bella's new do. 1Ds Mark II, 50mm f/1.8 @ f/2.2, 1/250, ISO 1600. A bit of fill light added in ACR.
I like the juxtaposition of an $8000 camera and a $100 lens. :)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8177/8010844572_2c27a3c115_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/8010844572/)
Bella's new do (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/8010844572/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

[Jayson]

Bella's new do. 1Ds Mark II, 50mm f/1.8 @ f/2.2, 1/250, ISO 1600. A bit of fill light added in ACR.
I like the juxtaposition of an $8000 camera and a $100 lens. :)

If that combo produces results like that, then I think it'll do just fine. Who needs L glass anyway! Looks great!

[DavidEccleston]

You need the L glass as you move away from 50mm, in either direction. ;) But yeah, it's a fantastic cheap lens.

[DavidEccleston]

So, Bella wanted even shorter hair today. She wanted "A boy haircut." Naturally, another photoshoot ensued. As you can see from the caption, there's more on Flickr if you're interested.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/8014322505_610644f668_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/8014322505/)
Bella even newer even shorter Haircut 5/6 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/8014322505/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

[Busted Knuckles]

So, Bella wanted even shorter hair today. She wanted "A boy haircut." Naturally, another photoshoot ensued. As you can see from the caption, there's more on Flickr if you're interested.


Not sure of the others - but she doesn't look too happy with at least you. :)

[bob williams]

Dave, That first one of Bella is a fantastic shot---what a sweet looking child and well executed portrait; Now, about the second shot. I am not sure if Bella is unhappy about the hairdo or you, but she is clearly not happy---That's an understatement, she is burning holes through you and your audience----Another well captured shot.

You captured the extreme swing of emotions for your little girl, these will be family treasures and both should be hung on a wall together.

Whew, I am sure glad I raised boys:p.

Very nice work.

Bob

[DavidEccleston]

Bob, Busted Knuckles, she's not actually unhappy, she's just a fantastic little actress. We have lots of shots of her with an massive grin about her new 'do, too. I'll include one below.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8029/8014322105_48a1dd5f7e_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/8014322105/)
Bella even newer even shorter Haircut 2/6 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/15493374@N03/8014322105/) by namethatnobodyelsetook (http://www.flickr.com/people/15493374@N03/), on Flickr

[Richard Lane]

Beautiful shots Dave!

It looks like you're a genius with your decision on getting the 1DsII, the photos above, as well as the ones on your flickr account look magnificent!

I love the colors, contrast, creamy bokeh and thin DOF. You must be thrilled with your decision. I bet you'll start a trend around here!

Enjoy it,
Rich

[DavidEccleston]

Thanks Richard, despite the quirks, we're super happy with the images we're getting. The low noise of ISO 1600 is incredible, compared to the 7D.

I'd wholly recommend full frame, but I wouldn't recommend going as far back as the 1Ds2 without knowing what you're getting yourself into. To change half the settings you need deprecated software on an XP machine with firewire. If you want to use EOS Utility, you'll need to find an older version, as they dropped support years ago. The controls really are super clunky, and the small low-res LCD isn't particularly good. As someone pointed out in either the "fullframe fever" thread, or the 6D thread, Canon is dropping support in a couple months, so there will be no replacement parts in case of failure.

In a couple months you can get a brand new shiny 6D, warrantied, likely amazing high-ISO, hopefully good servo. I imagine you'll find sales for $1800 pretty quick, just as we're seeing sales on the 5Dmk3. So, for the extra couple hundred, it would probably be worthwhile picking up the 6D, unless you need the weather sealing, integrated grip, the battery that lasts forever, pro level features. I'd bet the majority of users would prefer the UI, and IQ, and software improvements over the pro-level body.

The good thing is, if I have convinced anyone to go fullframe, I've timed it quite well, with Canon making it more affordable than ever, and I've done it early enough for you to save up your pennies. All you've got to do is wait patiently.

[clemmb]

Thanks Richard, despite the quirks, we're super happy with the images we're getting. The low noise of ISO 1600 is incredible, compared to the 7D.

I'd wholly recommend full frame, but I wouldn't recommend going as far back as the 1Ds2 without knowing what you're getting yourself into. To change half the settings you need deprecated software on an XP machine with firewire. If you want to use EOS Utility, you'll need to find an older version, as they dropped support years ago. The controls really are super clunky, and the small low-res LCD isn't particularly good. As someone pointed out in either the "fullframe fever" thread, or the 6D thread, Canon is dropping support in a couple months, so there will be no replacement parts in case of failure.

In a couple months you can get a brand new shiny 6D, warrantied, likely amazing high-ISO, hopefully good servo. I imagine you'll find sales for $1800 pretty quick, just as we're seeing sales on the 5Dmk3. So, for the extra couple hundred, it would probably be worthwhile picking up the 6D, unless you need the weather sealing, integrated grip, the battery that lasts forever, pro level features. I'd bet the majority of users would prefer the UI, and IQ, and software improvements over the pro-level body.

The good thing is, if I have convinced anyone to go fullframe, I've timed it quite well, with Canon making it more affordable than ever, and I've done it early enough for you to save up your pennies. All you've got to do is wait patiently.
David,
Love the shots of Bella. I have been waiting for your feedback on this camera. As you can tell in my series below I used a 1DmkIIn for most of them. The 1D2 looks and feel just like your 1Ds2 but with a larger display. I do find the controls to be more clunky than my 5DmkI. IQ is almost as good as the 5D but not quite. As I got used to the controls I find I like shooting with it better than my 5D. I like the feel, the focus points and frame rate. Since it is a larger format than a 7D the high ISO performance is great but if I am shooting portraits for a customer I usually use my 5D.

[clemmb]

Mark, great set of images! Beautiful models as well! I really like your processing on these as well. Did you use anything special for skin smoothing?


I used Portrait Professional on some of them for skin smoothing and eyes. These models did not need much though. :rolleyes:

[DavidEccleston]

Mark,

At first my wife was very unsure. A camera that makes our lenses act shorter, a slower burst rate (Your 1D2 has a nice 8.5fps, our 7D is 7, but the 1Ds2 is a mere 4), lower res, and crappy controls, and a small LCD. What was I thinking?!? She took an ISO 400 picture that showed quite a bit of noise too, and she was ready to tell me to send it back. The USB1.1 1 picture per minute transfer rate didn't impress her much either. Then she saw the results, including some ISO 1600 shots taken in a basement with no windows, and decided that yes, perhaps this camera has found a home after all.

[magsbang]

how do i view the images,i am new here?

[swuwick]

Getting into portraiture, what do you guys think?

1442

[swuwick]

And this one

1443

[nvitalephotography]

went to a fundraiser/pin up shoot over the weekend. Here are a few from the day

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/8069368390_3baa189ceb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/8069368390/)
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8177/8069372917_5aab965268_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/8069372917/) [/URL]
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8177/8069370520_5307a7edd5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/8069372917/)
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8309/8069370037_8d91ff88d7_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/8069370037/) [URL="http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/8069370037/"]

I may be doing another similarly themed photo shoot in a few weeks so feel free to tell me whats wrong with these so I can improve.

[Sean Setters]

Good stuff Nick. ;-)

[ahab1372]

Yep, I agree, great stuff Nick. Maybe Clyde could look a little older, but I guess that can't be done by the photographer. I definitely like the poses.
The model in the car came out great, too.

[Steph]

Indeed, very nice! I like the orange car a lot...

[Steve U]

Hi Nick, very impressive series, particularly like the second and third shots, lighting spot on and poses a little bit different.
I would like a little more grit or shadow in the B&W, perhaps even a vignette. It is a clean, clinical shot with flawless models, but the subject matter screams B&W. There is a slight amount of introduced shadow from the hat and the light positioning, but I would have made it more grainy, a little darker, but that probably says more about me.:cool:
Great show of your versatility and skill, can't wait to see your next set.

[bob williams]

Nick, as others have said---nice set. I agree with steve regarding a little more "grit" in the B&W. Also, in the first image of the redhead girl, there seems to be some kind of blue shadowing around her head shoulder and legs, like maybe you cloned something out or some other processing issue, not really sure, but definitely noticable on my monitor. Does anyone else see this, or do I need to go shopping again?

[bob williams]

FYI, for all of you interested in portraiture. Here is a short (1 hr and 53 minute) tutorial by Joel Grimes who does a lot of those gritty, contrasty and dramatic portraits of atheletes, musicians etc---plus he does a bunch of other stuff. He also has some other good video's on youtube and some detailed tutorials for sale on his website. ALthough he does portraits, there is a lot of good info to be had when watching his videos.

http://youtu.be/Z8m3bm6hC74

[conropl]

Nick, as others have said---nice set. I agree with steve regarding a little more "grit" in the B&W. Also, in the first image of the redhead girl, there seems to be some kind of blue shadowing around her head shoulder and legs, like maybe you cloned something out or some other processing issue, not really sure, but definitely noticable on my monitor. Does anyone else see this, or do I need to go shopping again?

In the first one, there is some gray around the feet, head, and little strip between her behind and the left edge of the frame. It looks like artifacts left from processing. The top one screams for a little vignetting. Other than that, I think you did a great job on these (#2 & 3 are my favorites).

[nvitalephotography]

thanks for the feedback everyone

Bob...I do see that on this computer...I did the post work on a different monitor that apparently did not show that as well. I apparently did a rather poor job making the background more even colored. looks like I need to work on a better monitor

Steve, I actually did do another shot in B&W and processed it like what you describe
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8311/8072360736_211536b3a0_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/59342069@N07/8072360736/)

[Steve U]

A still from a movie Nick, or a movie poster, that's gritty.:o

[bob williams]

Most of you know that I don't do portraits, but I finally decided to try my hand at with my new grandson.

Maddox; 3 months old and already a football fan:D

7d, 50 1.2, ISO 100, F8, 1/250, canon 580 exII and 430 ex
softbox left, fill light on the right bounced off the wall
The original images had two catchlights in each eye---I didn't think about that when setting up. Also, fixing them wasn't as easy as I though because the cathclight crossed from the iris into the pupil which compounded the fix.

Comments and critiques are welcome


http://rwilliamsimaging.com/img/s2/v58/p1193697666-4.jpg

[Steve U]

Not much else to say, except I really like it Bob. Great portrait of the little bloke.
Did you have to set up any feeders?

[bob williams]

Not much else to say, except I really like it Bob. Great portrait of the little bloke.
Did you have to set up any feeders?

Only for his parents;)

Thanks Steve,

Bob

[ddt0725]

Wonderful portrait of a beautiful baby, Bob! Football!? Maybe he needs a GB Packer shirt for Christmas! :)

[ddt0725]

The bride's daughter which I hope to get another photo shoot with someday ...she is so photogenic! The last shot is the bride's nephew (I think). The hat was really causing a great deal of dark shadow over half of his face but now I think I may have brightened it too much.

14691470

[ddt0725]

Most of you know that I don't do portraits, but I finally decided to try my hand at with my new grandson.

Maddox; 3 months old and already a football fan:D

7d, 50 1.2, ISO 100, F8, 1/250, canon 580 exII and 430 ex
softbox left, fill light on the right bounced off the wall
The original images had two catchlights in each eye---I didn't think about that when setting up. Also, fixing them wasn't as easy as I though because the cathclight crossed from the iris into the pupil which compounded the fix.

Comments and critiques are welcome


http://rwilliamsimaging.com/img/s2/v58/p1193697666-4.jpg

I forgot to ask you, Bob ...what size softbox do you have? I am think maybe at some point getting a larger one. My someday wishlist!

[conropl]

Wonderful portrait of a beautiful baby, Bob! Football!? Maybe he needs a GB Packer shirt for Christmas! :)

:eek:Noooooo! Not another chesse head in the world.:p

[bob williams]

I forgot to ask you, Bob ...what size softbox do you have? I am think maybe at some point getting a larger one. My someday wishlist!

DD, I used the Westcott medium Apollo which I think is 28x28---Just the right size for single or small family portraits, but for larger groups I think you would probably need a larger one, or put 2 or 3 speedlights in a medium and move it back a ways.

[Joel Eade]

:eek:Noooooo! Not another chesse head in the world.:p


Yesssssssssssssssssssss!!!!

[bob williams]

Yesssssssssssssssssssss!!!!

Never, never, :cool:

[Joel Eade]

4 Generations....Mother-in-Law (age 93), her daughter (my wife), grand-daughter and great grand-daughter.

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s4/v68/p1204081502-5.jpg

PS Mother-in-law fell 2 1/2 weeks ago and fractured her left elbow (you can see a little of the cast extending below her sleeve)

[ddt0725]

Very nice photo(s), Joel! I just saw a photo online yesterday done like this but I can't remember the website that I saw it! Anyway, very clever way of showing the generations!!

I hope your mother-in-law heals quickly!

[conropl]

Never, never, :cool:

Thank goodness! :cool:


4 Generations....Mother-in-Law (age 93), her daughter (my wife), grand-daughter and great grand-daughter.


Joel - That is a nice idea. It looks like the same frame, all held at the same angle, same background, and it looks like the same chair.

[Joel Eade]

Very nice photo(s), Joel! I just saw a photo online yesterday done like this but I can't remember the website that I saw it! Anyway, very clever way of showing the generations!!

I hope your mother-in-law heals quickly!

Thanks, my wife saw the idea on Pinterest. Not an original thought of mine but she liked it so much she wanted us to make our own version.

[Joel Eade]

Joel - That is a nice idea. It looks like the same frame, all held at the same angle, same background, and it looks like the same chair.

Thanks Pat. It is the same frame and same chair. You start out with the youngest and then print each picture and put it in the same frame for each successive shot with each person sitting in the same chair against the same background. Took us about 1 hour to complete the whole process.

[rlriii13]

I was assuming it was a blank frame and you edited the shots in during post.