critique to learn

[cristoleyz]

I am really trying to learn here. I would like you to tell me what I am doing wrong and how should I have taken these photos. I know they are not sharp but what else is missing? I really want to buy the Rebel XT but not until I can really get a grasp on this.
Another thing, the original file seems sharper than when I resized it....is that normal?

Thanks in advance! All criticisims welcome.

Chris

[cristoleyz]

two others :-)

[ChP]

Yes, it is normal for the resized file to be less sharp.

My take on these photos is that they lack an atmosphere and connection with the model. Portraits are often make or break based on the eyes. In all of these photos the person doesn't seem interested in having a picture taken. The composition of the second one is the most interesting.

To improve you need to have a mission before you start to shoot. Did you want this photo to express something about music culture? Are you making a brochure to sell guitar lessons? Are you objective you get a snapshot.

[colliewalker1]

two others :-)

(1) It's a shame the young lady looks so serious.:cry:

(2) Fill flash could have been used to good effect I think.

[PhotosGuy]

I really want to buy the Rebel XT but not until I can really get a grasp on this. That would be a pretty good choice to start, but I'm wondering what program you used to process these pics? If you don't have PS, you should at least have PS Elements before you get a new cam.

[smittymike19]

outdoor shots and electric guitars? not sure it works. she needs an amp to hear the guitar with the electric, but its not there. these would be more suited to an acoustic.

[cristoleyz]

Yes, it is normal for the resized file to be less sharp.

My take on these photos is that they lack an atmosphere and connection with the model. Portraits are often make or break based on the eyes. In all of these photos the person doesn't seem interested in having a picture taken. The composition of the second one is the most interesting.

To improve you need to have a mission before you start to shoot. Did you want this photo to express something about music culture? Are you making a brochure to sell guitar lessons? Are you objective you get a snapshot.


Thanks so much for your input!!! I read as much as I can here and try to absorb it but I figured it would be good to put something out there to have a look at. I will go back in look at these pics with your input. Thanks so much!!

[cristoleyz]

(1) It's a shame the young lady looks so serious.:cry:

(2) Fill flash could have been used to good effect I think.


Thanks for your response! Yes....she is a very serious girl LOL

Thanks for your suggestion on fill flash.....can I ask what you mean by that...sorry just trying to understand all this.

[cristoleyz]

That would be a pretty good choice to start, but I'm wondering what program you used to process these pics? If you don't have PS, you should at least have PS Elements before you get a new cam.


Actually I have Paint Shop Pro but really didn't use it for these. I did use the quick fix on some of them but thats about it. I wanted to leave them as is for the best critique.

Thanks for your help

[cristoleyz]

outdoor shots and electric guitars? not sure it works. she needs an amp to hear the guitar with the electric, but its not there. these would be more suited to an acoustic.

Ha Ha Ha.....you know I didn't even think about the electric guitar thing until you mentioned it and that is so true! Actually, she was playing the acoustic and now has started w/the electric and will absolutely not put it down let alone even touch her acoustic anymore. What a shame....I like the acoustic much better. Thanks for your input.

[DavidEB]

Eyes.

get a little lower, have her look a little up (not so much that it looks like she's staring at you but enough to see her eyes).

and tell a little joke just before you shoot, so she smiles.

[Viking Joe]

I agree with most other "constructive" comments as well but I'd like to add something. You are looking for people to critique you and point out flaws. Well, I'll leave that to others. I really like the compostion in all your photos. It looks like you put time and thought behind it. The first pic is my favorite. She looks serious but also as if she isn't even aware that you are there. I'm a musician and I know what it's like to get into the zone. The other pics look forced, but that's not your fault. Nice job.

[grego]

In all of them, the light seems to be behind her. Take advantage of the natural light to give your subject some nice lighting. Also all the photos seem disconnected with your friend. Get more personal with the photos. It's missing that bond between the viewer and the individual.

[tim]

A little flash fill would be good, and you need to get more of her face. Lie on the ground if you have to.