studio photgraphy and a few examples

[maplerock]

I have the D30 and want to take some good senior portrait style photos. I would appreciate any tips, pointers, or critiques. Below I am pasting the links to a few pictures that members of my family posed for.

I use Novatron flash equipment and a wein safe sync to protect my D30. I like what I have gotten, but know it can be better. My middle son is about to have senior pictures done, and I'd rather do them myself than pay someone else! Please send any hints or suggestions.

Thank you,

Jerry


http://www.otherside.com/maple/linda.jpg
http://www.otherside.com/maple/dave2.jpg
http://www.otherside.com/maple/tan1.jpg
http://www.otherside.com/maple/dave1.jpg

[philgabe]

Jerry:

Quick thoughts looking at your pictures.

1. They're really good--I've seen pro formals that are not as good;

2. The eyes of the subjects never look perfectly sharp to me (maybe it's a problem of resolution of the file you posted?);

3. the lighting is a little flat if anything. I'd use side lighting with ratio to give a little more 3D feel.

That's about it!

Cheers,

Philippe
www.epochphotos.com

[maplerock]

Philippe,
I appreciate all input. I think you are right. The eyes could be sharper. I do a lot of wildlife photography, and try to focus on the eyes. I need to be sure to do the same for my people pics too.

I work in a small space and have a hard time softening the flash... (no soft box). I shoot through the umbrellas and it works pretty good.

Thanks again