First Off Camera Flash shot, I'm new to Photography

Talley wrote in post #16527160
I see this as a "normal preference".

what gives.

Having the subject looking back into the frame leads the viewers eye back into the photo. It helps to graphically balance out the negative space. By posing the subject looking out of the frame you are creating tension which can work but its generally less pleasing if you are Trying to convey a sense of comfort or ease.

Nice and strong contrast...
For a first attempt you did very well, so congrats. It is moody and effective. The light is a bit hard, but that can be good in this case. It depends on the mood you are trying to set. If you wanted a softer look then a softbox or beauty dish and maybe fill light from behind to remove some of the shadows. It all depends on your ultimate vision for the photo..

Syl Arena wrote a great book, "The Speedliter's Handbook" which does not do a lot with the 600 series Canon speed light, but does address everything using the 580EXII and 430 series flashes. I liked it because it talks 95% lighting theory and real-life and 5% features of flash.

.. and there are many others.

1626 x 1080

EMBED PREVENTED, IMAGE TOO LARGE: http://blog.pocketwiza​rd.com …10/10/Joe_McNal​ly_014.jpg Click here to see our image rules.

This photo isn't designed to give you a sense of comfort, so the composition works IMHO.

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …97771207@N04/11​355806904/

Here's a comparison from Gary Fong himself in regards to his collapsible lightsphere.
http://www.youtube.com …TBkJ6N_LhDKQKm2​PAHkgXYc07

smooth3000 wrote in post #16530230
Here's a comparison from Gary Fong himself in regards to his collapsible lightsphere.
http://www.youtube.com …TBkJ6N_LhDKQKm2​PAHkgXYc07

In which he compares them to other small and effectively useless (for the task) modifiers for off camera flash. Notice he doesnt show you how its superior to a shoot through umbrella.

gonzogolf wrote in post #16531326
In which he compares them to other small and effectively useless (for the task) modifiers for off camera flash. Notice he doesnt show you how its superior to a shoot through umbrella.

These tests were all done with a speedlight + modifier on camera to show you the difference between them. So comparing his modifier to a shoot through umbrella is like comparing oranges to apples.

But yes, I would agree that starting with a basic shoot through umbrella beats any flash on your camera.

smooth3000 wrote in post #16532025
These tests were all done with a speedlight + modifier on camera to show you the difference between them. So comparing his modifier to a shoot through umbrella is like comparing oranges to apples.

But yes, I would agree that starting with a basic shoot through umbrella beats any flash on your camera.

I was just making clear to the OP who might watch that and somehow come to the impression that a lightsphere would actually improve his off camera photography.

gonzogolf wrote in post #16532031
I was just making clear to the OP who might watch that and somehow come to the impression that a lightsphere would actually improve his off camera photography.

I don't think Gary Fong designed the lightsphere to be used off camera.

smooth3000 wrote in post #16532035
I don't think Gary Fong designed the lightsphere to be used off camera.

No, but if you read the entire thread the OP was asking if he should buy one for that purpose.

Well hopefully we answered his question.

smooth3000 wrote in post #16532035
I don't think Gary Fong designed the lightsphere to be used off camera.

Actually I just saw a youtube video where Gary himself explains the lighting differences of his Lightspere vs Umbrella off camera. Of course the Lightsphere won

CanonVsNikon wrote in post #16532536
Actually I just saw a youtube video where Gary himself explains the lighting differences of his Lightspere vs Umbrella off camera. Of course the Lightsphere won

Light sphere, ftw! Haha

I wouldn't think about using the Lightsphere for off camera flash, I originally asked about it to soften the light. Once I get my umbrella and lightstand (UPS says tomorrow), I'll give it another try, well probably once finals are over.