First attemp at still life

[LaurieZehn]

This is my first attempt at a still life photograph. I took it with a Cannon 50D, f 5.6 using my 430 flash (shot through a white umbrella) hand held above and about 30 degrees in front of the apple which was sitting on a mirror in a completely dark room. The flash output was set for 1/16.

I would appreciate any comment or criticisms to help me improve. Thanks.

[LaurieZehn]

I forgot. I also made a 4"snoot for the 430 out of foam paper to direct the light at the apple.

[corkneyfonz]

I'm no expert on still life since a camera club judge described my first effort as a steaming pile of elephant dung. However, there are two distinct flash hot spots, four if you count the reflection. Other minor things are that the apple looks as if a very large circular brush has left its mark and there are distracting shades in the left and right of the reflected section. The halo may also cause distress to purists. However, if these blemishes were to be overcome in PP then I think you've got a pretty decent shot.

[LaurieZehn]

Since I'm pretty new at this I didn't know how to get rid of the hot spots. Any suggestions. I also, removed some lint on the black background with Photoshop healing brush. I must have mistakenly clicked on the apple.

[LaurieZehn]

Since I'm pretty new at this I didn't know how to get rid of the hot spots. Any suggestions. I also, removed some lint on the black background with Photoshop healing brush. I checked the original and the circle is there.

[LeuceDeuce]

Don't use a snoot. To lose the hotspots, you want as soft a light as you can create. That means as big a source as you can get, as close as you can get it.

[LaurieZehn]

Thanks,I will try that tommorow.