Most, if not all studio strobes have a modeling light function, which can also be used as an easy continuous light source without any additional equipment. So why use a continuous light source?
Immediate effect.
When using a continuous light source, the lighting pattern, ratios etc can be seen on the subject immediately and if need be adjusted before even picking up the camera. This is extremely beneficial and a time saver as a starting point in how and where to place that flash most effectively.
One other advantage is the low power output. There are often situations where event the lowest power setting on the most low powered flash is still too much… yes you can stick on ND gels, but that’s another topic. What this low power output does is let you mix and balance your lighting with ambient much more smoothly rater than just nuking everything.
For wedding shooters this could mean a romantic couples portrait under candle light, for model shooters, well the possibilities are endless.
In here, I wanted the environment dimly lit so I can use high ISOs to create digital noise.
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Settings: 1/80 @ f1.4 @ ISO800 … the lens was 85mm f1.2 @ 85mm
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Settings: 1/80 @ f1.4 @ ISO800 … the lens was 85mm f1.2 @ 85mm
First of all, apologies to the long absence… this is the first time I’ve had useable internet. I cannot guarantee regular updates, but will do my best to fill the gaps.
Back to the topic of Lighting an Working with a model. What is the most important factor you need to consider during a photoshoot? The most mega-pixeled camera? The brightest flash? Or that super gigantic softbox?
The answer is none of the above.
I believe the most important aspect of a photoshoot is the interaction between the photographer and the model. To some, it is part of their personality that comes naturally, while to others it is like acting.
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Keeping things simple. 1 bare strobe, using the white walls for bounce.
One of the challenges of a portrait is the background. We should always avoid distracting backgrounds, and find and use backgrounds that will help in isolating the subject, to make it pop so to speak. This is definitely one example of the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) principle.
The Sky.
What is more non-distracting than a sky!! Especially when its overcast.
Settings: 1/250 @ f13 @ ISO100 … the lens was 70-200mm f2.8 @ 200mm
One of the most simplest way to recognise a big budget production is by how many assistants there are. The main photographer will need at least 2, 1 for the second photographer, 2 more for the make-up artist and before you know it, you are on the phone ordering 20 different coffees.
Why are assistants so important, surely its not that hard to click the shutter!!
The very basics of an assistant should be there to help you adjust the lighting, help posing the model and carrying some of the gear. Time is money, the extra 5 minutes you take to adjust that light might seem nothing at the time, but that 5 minutes can be alternatively be used to get that extra amazing shot.
This is especially true for wedding photographers, you will always be short on time and will always have a need for an assistant.
So how do you go about finding The Perfect Assistant? I would recommend online forums or friends that are into photography. Finding someone that is just as passionate about photography as you can be difficult, however it is definitely worth the effort.
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One of the best ever assistant I’ve had in action.
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Settings: 1/250 @ f9 @ ISO100 … the lens was 135mm f2 @ 135mm
I know a few posts back I’ve already talked about using a tight crop. This is the next level, the Super Tight Crop!!
First of all, why use a tight crop? For myself, I feel when a tight crop is used, it forces the viewer to a very specific part of the original image. I most likely will never shoot a tight frame to start with though.
Having a Super Tight Crop do have a few disadvantages. Loosing pixels is the major one, this will limit the flexibility of printing it large, however if you just shoot for the web, you won’t really notice the difference.
The other major disadvantage is it stresses on the camera gear you use. It demands alot of clarity and resolution. Most of these super tight crops are only 10% of its original size.
Choosing an image to use Super Tight Crop is also one of the challenges you’ll face. Generally, there are several aspects to a beautifully done portrait, for example composition, the model’s posing, the clothing, background, etc. For a Super Tight Crop because you are forcing the viewer to concentrate on a very small specific area, you have to ensure it is something worth looking at!!
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Settings: 1/2500 @ f2 @ ISO100 … the lens was 200mm f2 @ 200mm
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Settings: 1/200 @ f1.4 @ ISO100 … the lens was 35mm f1.4 @ 35mm
Yes, you read it right, a wide angle 35mm lens. This just shows you can create stunning portraits using any kind of lens.
