Kids

I am reluctant to comment on photos of children because I'm such a sucker for kid photos they all look marvelous to me.

That said, amazing shots!

Thanks Rachel

Yeah, I also have a serious soft spot for kids. Love the moods, the special moments, the expressions etc.

This, Johann is the most beautiful to me as there are no fingerprints on it from your methodology. In the others we see the reflection of the flash. In any case, I prefer larger light sources. Isn't there a window too. That should be enough.

As it is each picture shows a wonderful lovable precious imp of a child! Good work.

I'm enjoying the presence of the kids but this first picture is so natural and gives, perhaps, a glimpse of character.

Asher

Asher Kelman said:

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This, Johann is the most beautiful to me as there are no fingerprints on it from your methodology. In the others we see the reflection of the flash. In any case, I prefer larger light sources. Isn't there a window too. That should be enough.

As it is each picture shows a wonderful lovable precious imp of a child! Good work.

I'm enjoying the presence of the kids but this first picture is so natural and gives, perhaps, a glimpse of character.

Asher

Click to expand...

Thanks Asher.
Unfortunately she was not in the greatest of moods, and plainly ignored me. I could not get a single decent shot of her looking at me.

Flash was diffused but as you say, a larger source would be better....... but trying that on location where you need to run around after subjects is not possible.

So we keep trying.......

Johann van Rensburg said:

Thanks Asher.
Unfortunately she was not in the greatest of moods, and plainly ignored me. I could not get a single decent shot of her looking at me.

Flash was diffused but as you say, a larger source would be better....... but trying that on location where you need to run around after subjects is not possible.

So we keep trying.......

Click to expand...

Try using no flash, just a piece of white card as a relfector!

Overcast days in S. A. is unlikely, I'd imagine or am I mistaken? If you have that condition then essentially you have an infinitely wide softbox and the most perfect light. Otherwise, how about shooting in the shade and still one can use a reflector to lighten her face from below.

What's important here is that you did a good job. That first picture works well for me, cooperation or not!

Asher

Asher Kelman said:

Try using no flash, just a piece of white card as a relfector!

Overcast days in S. A. is unlikely, I'd imagine or am I mistaken? If you have that condition then essentially you have an infinitely wide softbox and the most perfect light. Otherwise, how about shooting in the shade and still one can use a reflector to lighten her face from below.

What's important here is that you did a good job. That first picture works well for me, cooperation or not!

Asher

Click to expand...

All tips duly noted Asher.

Only one little problem - this was not controlled (set up) shooting - just sheer candid type stuff - no chance for reflectors, boxes etc.

And just to add to the problem - heavily overcast afternoon - Yes, we do get them !

Johann van Rensburg said:

And just to add to the problem - heavily overcast afternoon - Yes, we do get them !

Click to expand...

That condition is idea lfro realy soft protraits as there's no specular light. The entire sky becomes one gian softbox. If you want ideal conditions outside, then this is it except for the dramatic olor and light angle at dawn and sunset.

Shade is another friend! A simple 16 inch reflector, which springs out from a mere 6 inch flat bag is perfect for adding light to the face and either removing shadows or adding dimensionality. Try it, it's fun and also recruits others into the photographic process. For a head shot, the model can hold it at or above waist level and you adjust the angle to approx 45 degrees to get the effect you want. no batteries, no wires; portable magic!

Asher

This time just sharing really, but your comments always welcome

Image link does not seem to work!

Hi Asher, this is the link:

http://i.pbase.com/o6/19/507919/1/86779603.QLg9SpfF.IMG_1100_WP.jpg

and I can see it on my side. I used the "Copy Image Location" to get it off pbase.

Do we have a problem ?