Shooting classical portraits

[scg1476]

You do not always need to use strobes to shoot classical portraitures. In fact, you can produce very good and natural looking portraits using available light. Here is an example:
http://www.pbase.com/image/28555770.jpg

 

[scg1476]

and if you feel you need to shoot with studio strobes, always make sure you start out with a simple set up. Best if you start with just 1 light and 1 reflector and build from there

This shot was done using 3 lights.

http://www.pbase.com/image/27753454.jpg

 

[scg1476]

Sometimes in character type portraits, you may need to think of how to present the photo. It may be more impactful to show it in monochrome. This is where you need to decide how to do the conversion. You need to see how the skin tone translates and how details and overall texture come through in the b/w version.

I'll give you an example:
http://www.pbase.com/image/27632424.jpg

 

[scg1476]

but it can be done if you pay sufficient attention and care when lighting and posing the subject. The trick is to tilt the glasses a little downwards and check constantly in the viewfinder before triggering the shutter.

Example here:
http://www.pbase.com/image/27778829.jpg

 

[scg1476]

Good portraits need not be of beautiful girls only. The challenge is always for the photographer to portray his subject. Hence, he needs to find the elements that will flatter his subject. Men can be portrayed as good looking, strong, determined, etc.

Here's an example of a big strong fellow with an Executive look:

http://www.pbase.com/image/27759795.jpg

 

[scg1476]

Go ahead, it is OK to speak. It is OK to chip in if you want to.

If you are not sure and wish to ask some questions, go ahead.

Come on lah.

 

[AhV]

: :thumbsup: You have said it.... portrait should not revolve only around pretty faces... :nono: it's about character or mood of a person which often is a tough to capture on film. Valuable tips..you have there. Conducting lessons somewhere ? Personally, I must say your images are traditional portrait shots. It's too 'formal' or 'serious'. Have you tried modern portrait shots with poses and 'different' backgrounds ?

 

[scg1476]

as these are examples of classical portraits. ))

 

[zekai]

i find you portrait subject complexion very patchy. has this been touched up on film and then scanned?

 

[Zplus]

i find you portrait subject complexion very patchy. has this been touched up on film and then scanned?

Noticed that too. Think it was touched up on film and then print and scanned. When its digital such things are more prominant.


I have never touched up on film before, so pardon my ignorance and no offence, I hope. Maybe scg1476 can enlighten us. Think the process must be way more difficult and complex.

 

[jumbocrab]

Sorry, SCG1476, but are you the "Henry Goh" in dpreview? I saw you posting pictures there, especially when the D70 just came out, it was great!