Emily

Hello, this is my first 'serious' post in POTN forums. I've seen lots of GREAT pictures in here and it really gives the idea how should a good photo look like. I'm happy that I found this site

I bought my DSLR just a couple of months ago and this was my first model photoshoot ever and I've had no idea whatsoever about what I was doing. I was a bit nervous at first but it turned out to be real fun. The girl isn't a model but we know each other quite well so being comfortable was not an issue. All pictures were taken with a Canon EOS 350D (Rebel XT) and EF-S 55-250mm f4.0-f5.6 IS (EXIF data is in the pictures) just before sunset in natural light. Any C&C is greatly appreciated.

1.

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Welcome to the forum, these are very nice and a good start. No expert with portrait shooting I think you are doing very good for just beginning. Your model/friend seems very at ease with the lens and you and that is a big plus. I especially like number one, a very warm smile! Keep you images coming, a very, very nice start.

really great photos. the natural light is great and your model suits the setting perfectly. Many an "experienced" portrait photographer would be proud.

I like it, the 55-250 in good light can produce good portraits

Wow, that's encouraging! Thank you

I really like #3, the light and the expression really does it.

The 1st B&W doesn't work though. The processing and her pose just not flattering to her.

#3 is my favorite.

another #3 vote. It would have been extraordinary if her eye would have caught the lens. Lighting on her face is priceless. Exposure perfect as well. Nice work.

dave

snyderman wrote in post #8510001
another #3 vote. It would have been extraordinary if her eye would have caught the lens. Lighting on her face is priceless. Exposure perfect as well. Nice work.

dave

Thanks! She turned her head an inch and looked into the lens right after this shot but the lighting was pretty harsh so shadows instantly ruined it. Still, I like the way she looks in to the distance

aram535 wrote in post #8507993
I really like #3, the light and the expression really does it.

I agree. The color of the sun makes it nice and warm.

#1 is great. Awesome hair lighting, and her eyes really stuck out.

Very Good! #3 is my favorite!

# 1 is the winner for me, but #3 does have great color.

Thank you all for positive comments. What about some constructive criticism? Things I should adress next time to improve overall results?

Get the subject off of center/center. (1/2/5)
Portraits are better off (mostly) shot vertically. (1/2/5)
Use a longer zoom to compress the background more. (almost all)
Use a warm reflector to give the subject's face a warm glow to match the sunlight. (1/5)

Now this may sound harsh but don't take it as such. It seems you're trying various settings to see what works rather than knowing what you want and setting the proper settings to get it. That's just the impression I got, I hope I'm not too far off base with it.