Lighting Pointers

[Kelly Rose]

This is my first post here, and I am looking to improve my skills as a photographer.

Lighting is a challenge for me, as I am still looking for my "style" of shooting. Any critique on this picture would be most appreciated in regard to lighting, composition... etc.

[vk2gwk]

Welcome!
Nice shot and well focussed.
Very slightly blown out spots in the face ( nose en cheeks in particular). This can be easily corrected in post processing - especially if you shot RAW.
Why did you cut off the top of his head?

[Kelly Rose]

I cropped it close because I thought that it drew the focus to the eyes, though I am not certain that it does. The photo was shot in jpeg.

Does the lighting look "flat"

[szazzaro]

Always Shoot raw or raw+jpeg.........takes more time in post but more versatile..