A few portrait question sessions (lens choice, clothing, etc.)

[LORatliff]

Hi guys,

I'm doing a portrait shoot for some family friends this weekend (not paid, just as a friendly gesture) and wanted to get input on a few things. :) Even though this is free, they are friends and are a beautiful family, so I'd love to give them something that they will be proud of and will happily display in their home.

Firstly, I'm shooting outdoors so I won't be setting up lights or anything. I'm going to be shooting with the 28-70mm 2.8 L and I also have a 550EX speedlight. I'm thinking that should be enough, no? Would a reflector be a good addition? Since we're outside, I'd rather not have to hassle with changing lenses.

Also, planning to shoot around 9AM... We're shooting at a pretty park with nice colorful leaves and also has some great old stone bridges that we're built during the WPA. What do you all think about clothing choice? I was planning the good old white button down and blue jeans look, but someone here may be more creative than I. :D

Thanks in advance.

[RyanK]

If you have some sort of a diffuser, I would bring that.

[Dennis_Hammer]

I would bring a reflector and something or somebody to hold it. Also would shoot with the flash off camera or atleast the ability to do so in case shadows are a problem. Plus its nice to be able to bounce off the reflector helps diffuse even for fill. Lastly if possible change your shoot time to closer to sun up if possible the light will be better (magic hour and all) or close to sunset depending on where in the park you want to shoot different places will get light at different times.