What can I do better in the future for this type of shot?

[FlipsidE]

I took this tonight with my brand new Stroboframe Pro-T flash bracket, a 420EX, and a Lumiquest 80-20 with white insert.

The lighting just isn't what I wanted. Is there any way to help clean this up on a single flash setup? It was almost IMPOSSIBLE to keep her still during the evening. I was lucky to get this one. I would have preferred to take it multiple times comparing exposures, but I just didn't have the chance to.

Shutter - 1/60
Aperture - f/5.6

http://www.wesculbertson.com/caelynportrait_800_cr.jpg

Thanks

Brandt

[edsarkiss]

very cute ;-)

next time you could try to get her when she's not against the wall -- i think it would be better without the wall shadow.

you may also want to try additional diffusion on the flash. working so close, you will get those harsh shadows. maybe a "custom" insert for your 80-20 with some cotton balls glued to the paper would help (that was just totally a brain fart -- i've never tried it, but it just might work ;-) ) or a piece of vellum taped over the "output" opening of the lumiquest ... i'm just thinking about spreading the light.

also, you may try to just stand further away. with the diffuser on the flash, a couple more feet between you and the subject may soften the light up nicely.

i'd recommend doing some scientific tests with a teddy bear, doll, or something else that won't move. take an hour and try a bunch of different things and document what you did. that will give you some experience for the next time you want to get a photo of that little cutie...

[FlipsidE]

Excellent advice! Thank you!

FlipsidE

[snibbetsj]

Other than what edsarkiss said I would add that you might try the gold insert with the 80-20, it will warm up the skin tones. Other than that, it's a very cute photo.

FWIW
Jeff

[edsarkiss]

amen to the gold insert --

actually i've made an insert with a manilla folder (orange-yellow-off-white color) material that i use with my diffuser. i used some velcro circles to attach it, so i can remove it easily. the material is heavy paper, so it has lasted for several years now without signs of wear.

"sanford and son"-ly yours...

[im2postal]

Use a brighter background.

Robbie