need some tips for a park photoshoot with some models

[carguy]

hey whats up im doing a photoshoot in my local park during the day its mostly shady in the park im using my rebel xsi with kit lense what are the best settings to use and should i use my tripod???

[khanhfat]

longest length of ur lens and widest aperture . Set in Aperture mode .... beware of harsh shadow, bring a reflector or additional flash. shoot in lowest iso settings available.

[slimninj4]

I agree with Khanhfat. Use AE if you are not comfortable in Manual. Set your camera to start at F8, ISO 100 or 200 and see how it goes. Adjust accordingly. Always bring a reflector and if you want a flash. Though I do like to use natural light.

I do not use a tripod for posed shots indoors or out. I like to be fluid and be able to move around taking pics and adjusting as I need.

[towersinthesky]

Agree with the above. If you do have a bit of light try and reflect a bit to fill.

Also, I would suggest shooting all your shots in RAW so that you can up your exposure if you don't get quite the light you need. Good luck!

[carguy]

hey thanks for your help guys

[sspellman]

Carguy-

It would be very beneficial to you to practice your camera technique with just a friend at the same location to figure out how to use your camera better, so you have more experience by the time the models are in front of you.

Tips:
I would recomend starting with Av=F4, centerpoint focus, and partial metering.
Use FEC to adjust the overall lightness/darkness of the pictures.
Focus on the eye and recompose your shot.
Zoom your lens out to the maximum for the most flatering pictures.
Try to position the model with the sunlight hitting the side or back of her head to avoid squinting.
Use good outdoor fashion pictures from magazines for sample poses and composition.
You will often want a sharp subject with a blurry background-experiment with f3.5 to 8.
Try to coordinate the clothing, makeup, and background colors.

Have fun-
Scott

[Picture North Carolina]

One other thing to consider: check your local city regulations.

Some cities require professional photogs get a permit to use parks for shooting. It doesn't matter if you are shooting on an amateur level. The guard doesn't know that, and the interruption of an overly-aggressive guard or police officer has a tendency to dampen the spirit of the shoot.