Some lighting troubles

Went out for a shoot today, and looking at the pictures, most of them have shadows across the face, they are still usable, and I am sure the person will like them, however, I am wondering ways I can fix it for next time.

I was looking into getting a Vivitar 285hv to fill the shadows, but have lately heard not great things about that flash. Was also thinking, would a reflector in this case work, reflecting the sunlight to the other side of her face? Or would that only be useful for studio work?

Looking to only spend around 100 or so, if that is possible. But please, if there is another option that is really good for the price, and it is more than 100, suggest it. Thanks.

Mathias927 wrote in post #7079419
Was also thinking, would a reflector in this case work, reflecting the sunlight to the other side of her face?

Sure would. Check out this video, and the next two in the series if you like. The easiest way to even out some of the light is to shoot in the shade or on mildly overcast days, letting the clouds be your diffuser panels.

Using a separate flash has some advantages such as it being easier to vary the flash output (you can move the position of the reflector and change the material type, but those are more time-consuming). You might need to have an assistant to operate a diffuser panel.

Don't hesitate to experiment with your pop-up flash as a fill. Using pop-up as fill doesn't suffer from the same ultra-harsh effects as when it's used as main.

Mathias927 wrote in post #7079546
During the shoot I noticed the shadows a little

Yes, curse our eyes and their auto-aperture! It can be tricky to estimate the dynamic range of a scene until you peep on the viewfinder and realized that shadows have ruined the picture you wanted to take. I've found that observing the shadow line itself rather than trying to judge the difference in lightest section to darkest section makes it easier for me.

Take a look at this link and view this video. It may help you out.
http://digitalprotalk.​blogspot.com …el/Portrait%20p​hotography

Perhaps a simple reflector? Bounce some light back into the face?

Foam core works well, it's light, and cheap.

For instance, yes.
Or styrofoam, like what can be found in shops that sell building material (no idea what you'd call them in proper English, sorry )

Here's one that I use - http://www.amvona.com …p/flypage&produ​ct_id=1658

Ook wrote in post #7079555
Yes, curse our eyes and their auto-aperture! It can be tricky to estimate the dynamic range of a scene until you peep on the viewfinder and realized that shadows have ruined the picture you wanted to take. I've found that observing the shadow line itself rather than trying to judge the difference in lightest section to darkest section makes it easier for me.

Try squinting. It really darkens the shadows and gives a much closer representation of the dynamic range as it will be registered on the sensor.