First try at a portrait

[gouldimal]

Im new to all this, and i figured before i start having friends pose for portraits, i might as well work out all the kinks doing self portraits so i dont have to waste their time with my mistakes. Anyways, I found this setup at night in the back of a shopping center. I like the lighting, although I think it was a mistake for me to wear a hat, as it cast a shadow over my face...or the shadow may be from the wall? I don't know... Anyways are there any suggestions so I can get better at this? Thanks

Canon Powershot A80
Shutter: 1/2 Sec....I thought it was longer but i guess not, according to the EXIF data
Aperture: 3.2
ISO: 100




http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL526/3752743/7742928/104433140.jpg

[guitarman]

I don't think the hat is entirely at fault for that shadow.

[dsze]

There is no face. I think you had a cool idea, but there is absolutely zero detail in the face, which may be what you were going for, but its not what I think of when one mentions the word, "portrait." Suggestions; if you can't or don't want to use more flash, bump the ISO up, slow the shutter way down and tilt the head into the light a bit. Give it another shot.

-daniel

[gouldimal]

Those are really good suggestions, Thanks a lot! I'm going to give it another shot when i get a chance. Also, no I wasn't going for no detail on the face, I was just kind of curious to see how it would turn out, no expectations, but now that I see it, the lack of detail on the face does bother me. Thanks again!

[pwen watkin]

It's interesting.