Board logo

標題: Share your portrait/people/fashion/beauty photos here with critique [打印本頁]
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-4-30 23:46     標題: Share your portrait/people/fashion/beauty photos here with critique

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-1 00:06 編輯

The LYK photo section has been pretty quite for quite a few years.  Yet, quite few of us have been pretty active the past April.  To keep everything going.  I would like to suggest everyone to post their portrait/fashion/beauty photos here.

I encourage positive critique, so that we can all learn from it.

Here are my suggestions:

1> Only post your own photography, and try to do 1 at a time, so it's easier to repy.
2> Share your good photo - tell us why you like it.
3> Share you average photo - so we can all provide feedbacks on how it can be improved.

Bottom line, let's make this a place where we can all learn something together.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 00:04

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-1 00:06 編輯

To Start, this is a relatively simple picture with very shallow Depth of Field
Location: UBC - Classroom

What I dislike: It would have been nice if I can get both eyes to be in 100% focus, some light were also leak to her left arm.
What I like: The photo turn out to be about what I expected.  The Bokeh is soft, you can see abit of the pattern in the background, and I think the color also matches the hair and the skin color.

Lighting: A remote flash was use on her right side of the face which create a touch of contrast on her face from right ot left, which I believe can be important, especially for such close up.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 00:13

The pose is not for me. I guess it's the "Asian pose"? It actually turns me off.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 00:17

One time I bought the best selling book from Asia called "500 best portrait poses". 99% of them are ugly as hell. I guess that speaks about the Asian aesthetics.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 00:24

I forgot who said this, but some famous guy said that China/HK photography is 10-15 years behind Japan and Japanese photography is 10-15 years behind American.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 00:47

Scanning my shoot from last weekend. Here is the first one.

I was already shooting at f8 but still there's zero dof.

作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 00:49

LOL, that person must be US American.

I forgot who said this, but some famous guy said that China/HK photography is 10-15 years behind Jap ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 00:24
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 00:50

Medium Format ma!  But that post is Asian post too wor.  The kind you see on facebook?

Anyway, please tell us more details when u have the time la.

Scanning my shoot from last weekend. Here is the first one.

I was already shooting at f8 but still  ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 00:47
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 00:55

It's too big, almost scary. I need to exercise caution next time before I put on that extension tube.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 01:01

作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 01:48

I deleted the first one -sorry. I like this one more.

作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 01:54

LOL, that person must be US American.
chobit 發表於 2012/5/1 00:49


Not really. China is big on conceptual photography these days. Most of the prominent artists use photoshop extensively to create surreal illustrations. But none of them has any foundation in traditional photography. As a result, while their shots look "cool", there's simply no history to it.

Japanese, lots of influential masters but they mostly became active in the 60s and 70s. But Robert Frank already redefined photography in 1958. So the time gap is about right. I am not familiar with Japanese color photography but I believe it didn't gain status until the last couple decades. But in the US, Steve McCurry and William Eggleston have been doing this since the late 60s/early 70s.
作者: Look4chrisng    時間: 2012-5-1 08:17

本帖最後由 Look4chrisng 於 2012-5-1 08:22 編輯



Portrait: moment and personality is everything.
Here is a quick photo before heading out to dance lesson.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 08:36

Portrait: moment and personality is everything.
Here is a quick photo before heading out to dance  ...
Look4chrisng 發表於 2012/5/1 08:17


good - I try to stay away from this traditional center vertical portrait but yours looks good.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 09:48

Portrait is really an interesting area. There are so many ways to do just one thing.  At some of the shoots that I go to, I have seen other photographers with huge umbrellas and lighting, but at the same time they come up with shxt poses in front of a garbage background. I also blame that on digital. It totally disrupted the regular process that people go through to learn and refine their craft.  Instead they pore through the internet to look for what is cool and simply copy it with their digital camera. So nowadays you have millions of uninspiring and copy-cat stuff floating everywhere.

I just started reading Joyce Tenneson's stuff.  In the old days, artists went through years of refinement and self-exploration before they finally broke loose and created their unique vision. There are still artists like that today, but most of them still shoot film and go through the tried and true process.  Those that practice digital fast-food simply won't get anywhere.

Sharing another shot from last weekend.

作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 11:02

I really like this picture.  It would be a good picture for her to keep for life.
The higher contrast lighting usually bring out more of the un-perfect skin on people's face, yet that's what allow us to be more creative with kids, since they have some of most perfect skins.
The 2 things which IMHO can improve in here.
1> Catch Light on the eyes.  Not something you can easily do when outdoor or with just a flash, but should be much easier in studio settings.
2> Just a hair of light on the hair =D

Thanks for sharing =D

Portrait: moment and personality is everything.
Here is a quick photo before heading out to dance  ...
Look4chrisng 發表於 2012-5-1 08:17
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 11:14

I don't usually shoot with squre format in mind.  The format I used are mostly 4x6 & 4x5.
So, I'll try my best to share what I see.

1> The pose, it's almost like the person is showing the hair under the arm.
2> When the eyes are lookign in an extreme angle, I think it usually looks better if the face is not facing the camera too straight.  Plus capture close enough where the eyes are not leading anywhere.

What I like ares the yellow and red color, and the makeup around the eyes look interesting.

With this p
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 01:01
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 11:19

The like the compoisiton better on this picture.  The eyes are still looking away, but because of the angle, and the extra space, it allow the extra distance between the eyes and the end of the frame.

The bokeh looks nice and soft, I don't like the dark object in the top-right which I think is a distraction, but then I can't say for sure if it's better w/o it.  If would have put less of it in the frame so that the green would still be the outline of your key subject.

I deleted the first one -sorry. I like this one more.
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 01:48
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 11:28

The bokeh looks nice and soft, I don't like the dark object in the top-right which I think is a distraction, but then I can't say for sure if it's better w/o it.  If would have put less of it in the frame so that the green would still be the outline of your key subject.
chobit 發表於 2012/5/1 11:19


Agreed on this point. I only scanned 3 last night. I have like a whole roll for this girl. I think there are some interesting ones that I haven't looked at.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 11:35

I have many of the same person in the same series, so please bare with it.

Location: UBC - Library

I don't have too much that I dislike about the photo, as the overall wide angle capture the enviroment, but not to override the main subject is what I have in mind.  Her expression seems ok, showing a little of her personality.  If anything, I would say it would look better if her eyes a lite up a little more.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 11:39

Your shot looks like one of those photos they use in a job article in the Jobs section. Again, it's funny how many different visual languages there are when it comes to portraits. With landscape or sports, there are only so many ways you can shoot. But with portraits, the possibility is endless.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 16:46

I don't have alot to say about this one.
The idea with the lighting is the same, and so of the overall composition.  It's the action (What she was doing) define the differences.  I was also shooting in a slightly lower angle on the right side while she is leaning toward me from the left.  This help naturally define the line of her body.  I don't do fix poses like many other photographers, and I have a way to assist me, so that people can post more naturally regardless of his/her experience, and I'll share with everyone later, once I get a chance to post more pictures..!  But then only if people are interested =P
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 16:59

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-1 17:00 編輯

This is a completely diff picture, but I fig. it's may still help me express what I was talking about with my original post.

See how she is looking away from the camera, but with the helps on 4x6 image, it provide some extra room for where her eyes are looking.  I also have her adjust her head, so she is not moving only her eyes to the side.  Because I was using remote flash off my camera.  It often allow me to use my fill flash to fill in the area and angle I wanted. so that it create some level of contrast, and in this case, 1 side of her face has more shadows which helps her face looks more skinny.  (The amount of shadows need to be limited, so that it is not complely fill in shadows.

I don't usually shoot with squre format in mind.  The format I used are mostly 4x6 & 4x5.
So, I'll t ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-1 11:14
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 17:30

This help naturally define the line of her body.  I don't do fix poses like many other photographers, and I have a way to assist me, so that people can post more naturally regardless of his/her experience


But I don't find this natural at all? It's just as posed (if not more) as others?
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 17:31

This is a completely diff picture, but I fig. it's may still help me express what I was talking abou ...
chobit 發表於 2012/5/1 16:59


The high exposure on her face hurts my eyes in this one.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 19:56

It was shoot Raw, so I only up the Raw and adjust it a little, see if it's better.  Yet, don't forget that brightnes is impact quite alot by people monitor.  And you can usually tell by double checking the RGB value.

This is a completely diff picture, but I fig. it's may still help me express what I was talking abou ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-1 16:59
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 19:59

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-1 20:01 編輯

Yes, you r right, it's posed.. I'll need to post a few more pictures, and I'll start explaining what I mean to properly pose a model w/o using traditional posing techni which helps reduce the amount of 生硬 from an non professional model.

But I don't find this natural at all? It's just as posed (if not more) as others?
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 17:30
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 20:34

It was shoot Raw, so I only up the Raw and adjust it a little, see if it's better.  Yet, don't forge ...
chobit 發表於 2012/5/1 19:56


yes
contrast depends on the monitor as well
but if every other shot looks fine and that one particularly hurts
then that's still a problem.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 21:02

After all the color, a couple B&Ws. Shot with Ilford FP4 125.



A double exposure:

作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 21:52

True.., so hope this is other one is better.

yes
contrast depends on the monitor as well
but if every other shot looks fine and that one partic ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 20:34
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 21:58

I like the 1st b&w, the background bokeh is dark enough, allow your subject to stand out.  I hair is shiney, and the style works very well on him.  I think his standing pose is good too.

I am not a double exposure perosn, so it works for you, then it works for me too.

Like it.

After all the color, a couple B&Ws. Shot with Ilford FP4 125.



A double exposure:
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 21:02
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 22:12

Those 4 pictures are supposed to be within the same idea.  It isn't perfect, but then it's still carefully framed within the given enviroment.
The diagonal lines in the background is part of the idea.
Honestly, I don't expect every photo to be perfect, my goal is to keep them all within a good standard, and continue to improve from it.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 22:29

You like to use flash a lot.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 22:48

Yes and no.  The last 2-3 years, I haven't touch my flash much, but  Back in 2008/2009, I have been doing quite a few outdoor fill flash on a softbox along with my Radiopopper.  It does allow some level of creativities when it comes to lighting ideas.  It's actually quite fun.  It's like taking a your studio outside.  Your combine the ambient light the the softbox/umberalla setup, and it's not restrict by sync-speed, since you can use FP mode as long as you can get close enough to your subject.
Depending on ambient light is, the flash and the ambient light act at least like 2 studio lights.

You like to use flash a lot.
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 22:29
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 23:43

Something different. Also from last Saturday (but a different shoot)

作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-1 23:47

LOoks like some kind of suvivor from an accident!!

Something different. Also from last Saturday (but a different shoot)
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-1 23:43
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-1 23:54

Partly inspired by, of course, who else

作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 09:51

作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-2 10:24

Aside from posting your picture.  Please don't forget to share us, what/why you think it's good, etc..

快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-2 09:51
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 10:51

Aside from posting your picture.  Please don't forget to share us, what/why you think it's good, etc ...
chobit 發表於 2012/5/2 10:24


I can share why I took the particular approach but I cannot specify what is good because that's not how I think of a photograph.

I can point out that something is bad if it bothers me. But if nothing bothers me, then technically it's good. But it's not a good photograph yet unless I also like the approach, the visual style and the particular process.

So for these two close-ups, obviously I wanted to single out the scars, the blood and the make-up. But I was also influenced by Chuck Close when I was conceptualizing.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chuck_Close
   
There were maybe 10-15 photographers there shooting. I did not want to capture the whole scene because that's not the angle I wanted to take. Because I had the close-up adapter on me, this idea of capturing just their faces came to full bloom.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 11:02

A couple more notes.

When I take photos, the intention is always to have them printed large and hung. So there would be some shots that don't look too impressive in a web size on the screen, but would stand out completely if printed and framed.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-2 22:06

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-2 22:09 編輯

I actually don't do much headshots, but here is another one.
A few things I found that can make the headshot better

1> Expression the subject's face
2> The focus on the eyes should be dead on.
3> Catch Lights on the eyes help.
4> Borkeh should be as clean as possible
5> Since this is a headshot, you may think it makes very little different of how they stand.  However, by having your subject facing body facing a different direction, the have her head turn to you will make a difference.
6> Often enough, your subject's background may contain horizontal line, it will improve your image by keeping your subject's neck above or below the line.  (keep at least one side of it offset from the neck)
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 22:16

why is it always the same model?
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-2 22:36

In this original post, I talked about how the eyes should normaly look into the directions where more open space is avaialble.  Yet, this photo isn't quite like what I said.
This is what I think, and I think it works, but then only you folks can be the judge on this, but I'll share what I think anyway.

So, here the subject is looking away for the open space, but what help the counter balance the result are some of the shadows and line that are going from upper right to lower left.  Another think that helps a little is her feet and body is still point toward the inside instead of turning away with the same direction has the head.  In some way, it's sort of like forming a reverse V.

My photos probably still contain lots of technical flaws in it, but I guess that's part of the fun.

The like the compoisiton better on this picture.  The eyes are still looking away, but because of th ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-1 11:19
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 22:42

I can never analyze a shot like you do. I am amazed how you can go through this entire analytical process. No one has ever taught me this kind of stuff so when I explore on my own, I can only tell myself, ok I like this and ok, I hate this.

Do you have another model or another style? Frankly I am quite tired of her.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-2 22:59

Yeah.. that's actually about the last of the batch which sort of diff. in terms of lens use and style. =D
As you can see, I just love photography so much that in the last many years, I haven't take too many breaks.  At work, I have help my agency taking pictures of charity events, church camping picutures, studio shots for phone directory, and I used to carry my DSLR with me 100% of the time when I am out before I have kids.  Now I keep my XP1 with me including work days.  I may not use it, but I enjoy
photography so much, most people think that's my wife instead =D

I was hoping more of us would share here, but I guess it's ok with me, because I am currently at peak photography mode

I can never analyze a shot like you do. I am amazed how you can go through this entire analytical pr ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-2 22:42
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 23:06

I am kind of the opposite. 3 years ago when I first started taking pictures with a point and shoot, I would bring it everywhere and take all kinds of junk shots. But as I moved on, I use my gears less and less. Most of the time they just sit on the shelves. Instead, I spend all that time conceptualizing and designing the next shoot. In a way, I am taking photos in my mind instead of using a camera. Nowadays I only bring my camera when there is a shoot to do.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 23:12

An out of focus one this time.

作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 23:25

In this original post, I talked about how the eyes should normaly look into the directions where mor ...
chobit 發表於 2012/5/2 22:36


In all your shots the external light is usually the main source of light. It's simply too hard for me and this style doesn't appeal to me.

I prefer something like this guy's:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/joc ... 008/in/photostream/
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 23:38

本帖最後由 快樂牛郎 於 2012-5-2 23:40 編輯

Same girl but with a different film this time to capture a different tone/mood.

The similar photos that I have seen were all horizontal with 2x3 or 3x4. I tried a few times with the square format before and it didn't work. I think I finally figured it out this time.

作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-2 23:41

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-2 23:43 編輯

It'll eventually get there.  Overcast lighting is in fact some of the easiest lighting to work with when shooting portrait.  Essentially, it's a large softbox.  In many cases, when we do portrait shots in a wedding, The time is between 1pm-4:30pm where the lighting is at it's worst.  So, the first thing we look when we arrive the shooting site is to find the shade (Opposite side of the sun+large building), where lighting is flat.  Low contrast = easy lighting.

I hope this thread wouldn't become Happycow and chobit only thread.

In all your shots the external light is usually the main source of light. It's simply too hard for ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-2 23:25
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-2 23:46

I always hear the pros talking about all kinds of technique to handle difficult light. Sure, if you work for a client and you have to shoot at a certain location at a certain time, then you do whatever you can do to get the job done. But those are just junk shots no matter what you do. The good stuff comes when you chase after the light, not to fight against it. The easiest lighting condition is also the best.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-2 23:58

The next set of my photos are shot @ Yale Town.  Some of the shots are similar, but it was also purposely done in different angles for capture the different lines/color/shape in the background as a series.  It was actually 1 of my very few photoshoot which I decided to try out some PS Filters.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-3 00:15

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-3 00:19 編輯

Nah, you sure that's truely what you were thinking?
Remember that Paul/Chu Yan photo you commented.  that's a easy/standard setup, but you think it's boring.  The photographer probably play it safe for the same reason.

So, overcast lighting play the same role, it's a anyone can do type lighting where you can't go wrong, but the same old is boring.

The last couple of photos you posted are also unique, right.  It's not everyday you have people taking picture of faces with scars and blood on it, but then that's probabaly where the funs..

PS: BTW, isn't not about fighting the light, it's higher contrast lighting is too help you create the kind of image you wouldn't be able to do with flat lighting.  Say those, extra shadows from the trees, and the higher contrast on the leaves which you want to blend into the shot.


I always hear the pros talking about all kinds of technique to handle difficult light. Sure, if you  ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-2 23:46
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-3 00:38

Remember that Paul/Chu Yan photo you commented.  that's a easy/standard setup, but you think it's boring.  The photographer probably play it safe for the same reason.


That was a studio setup where the photographer could choose any setup he prefers. The "easy" lighting condition I was referring to was just natural light from the sun.

PS: BTW, isn't not about fighting the light, it's higher contrast lighting is too help you create the kind of image you wouldn't be able to do with flat lighting.  Say those, extra shadows from the trees, and the higher contrast on the leaves which you want to blend into the shot.


If you just want high contrast lighting, you can achieve it easily with the right location. What I was saying is that, even if you can try to fix a bad lighting situation by using sophisticated setup, the result would simply look like it's a patch work. It's never gonna look as good as another shot that combines the right location and the best natural light.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-3 01:05

Got it, sadly, that's the kind of what you have to deal with in weddings.
Client often pick their location, and time.  And the time simply won't be morning, nor would it be at lunch or dinner time.
Yet, I wouldn't say you can't work around it.  There are so much you can do as a photographer to made decent photo even at relatively poor lighting.

For example, you don't try to to soft looking beauty photo during sunset, you can pick to do Silhouettes, or off camera flash with gel color filter to blend the flash light into the shot, etc.!

Is one type better than the other, I wouldlnt' think so.  But then one may like one style better than the other..!  All it comes down to is preference.

I remember an exercise I did some years ago.  (Recommended by a good photographer).  When we review a decent photo (I don't think there is such thing as best photo), before we say nah.. I don't like it.  Ask myself if I understand the shot.  
where is the light, type of light, how many light source, focal lenght, composition pose, etc..!  Then if I don't like the shot, what would I do provided with the same everything, and how and why it is any better.

That was a studio setup where the photographer could choose any setup he prefers. The "easy" light ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-3 00:38
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-3 01:11

BTW, I don't recommend making the setup to complicate either.  A DSLR (Highly recommended) + Off Camera Flash (with High Sync capability like FP mode), and stand and an umberlla.  So essentially just 1 light to help you work with your subject.

Including the sun, you can already manage 2 light source which come from lighting directions.  Sometimes, the wall or glass, etc can help as the 2nd or 3rd light source as well...! Again, it's fun to check around and think about the light, then have them work for you to create the kind of mood, and effect.

I always hear the pros talking about all kinds of technique to handle difficult light. Sure, if you  ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-2 23:46
作者: Look4chrisng    時間: 2012-5-3 08:35

回復 44# chobit


    I like this one.
作者: Look4chrisng    時間: 2012-5-3 08:42

I like his portraits.  I think he shoots large format a lot of time.  But the expression is so nature, you can see the personality, no CHOK 樣.

But his stuff is whole other level, so you can learn from him in so many ways

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shima11/7068551067/
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-3 10:11

本帖最後由 快樂牛郎 於 2012-5-3 10:13 編輯
I like his portraits.  I think he shoots large format a lot of time.  But the expression is so natur ...
Look4chrisng 發表於 2012/5/3 08:42


As I mentioned before, most of the good stuff these days are still shot on film. Even when these people shoot digital, they use it as a point & shoot and instant free polaroid.

I don't know how anyone can truly understands the photographic process without shooting film.

He has a lot of good work, but I wouldn't say he's at a really high level. You can shoot like him in a couple years if you put in a lot of hours and effort.

But it's good to finally see someone in HK with good stuff (most of the stuff from HK are crap)
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-3 12:38

At this point, I think that's no reason to debate about films vs digitals.  Enough had been said by many well known photographers out there.  Just when you think yor MF is what consider the best, someone else will tell you they shoot large format instead.

I think knowing what we want to do with our photos at the end can helps us make the right dicision.
1> Do we plan on printing it, or if is going to display froma monitor
2> If it is for printing, are we talking 4x6?  12x16? billboard?
3> What type of media?  Canvas?  Matt?  Other type of art media?
4> Rather you are dealing with films or digitals.  They both require many steps of pro-process before the final prints.  In other words, I think it's matter of the final applications.




As I mentioned before, most of the good stuff these days are still shot on film. Even when these p ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-3 10:11
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-3 12:55

These kind of go together, so fig. I'll post them as well.

The next set of my photos are shot @ Yale Town.  Some of the shots are similar, but it was also purp ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-2 23:58
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-3 12:58

This has nothing to do with the final print or the image quality. It's the process that makes the difference. It's the fact that you know every shot will cost you money and you know that you can't screw things up because you know you won't see the results 3 days from now that forces you to concentrate on perfecting your craft and going through the whole mental process before clicking the shutter.  If you are already trained to do that, then it won't matter whether you shoot film or digital anymore. But without ever shooting film you are not gonna get this training, coz humans are lazy by nature.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-3 13:05

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-3 13:09 編輯

This 2 photos goes with the same ideas.

Often enough, people who start taking portrait photos are very photos on the models, but the full picture as a whole.

The idea behind this pictures are the diagonal lines.  Those lines exist in both the subject, and the background, which help enhance the visual quality.  They may not work for everyone, but then if that's not part of your consideration before you take the picture, then you are missing something.

PS: Some people may find the the 2nd photo is tilted too much.  This is actually where the 1st photo comes in to play.  One with a more common accepted angle, and 1 photo where you push it a little more.  That usually works well if the photos are used for photo album design, where the photos aren't always placed in parellel with the album.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-3 16:26

At this point, I think that's no reason to debate about films vs digitals.  Enough had been said by  ...
chobit 發表於 2012/5/3 12:38


See this interesting article here

http://theonlinephotographer.typ ... 5/a-leica-year.html

Basically any restrictions you impose on yourself will make you a better photographer, provided that you actually think about the limits you have and try to produce equally stunning results within those limits.

Shooting is a lot easier nowadays. But shooting good stuff is as difficult (if not more difficult) than ever.
作者: 快樂牛郎    時間: 2012-5-3 16:27

This 2 photos goes with the same ideas.

Often enough, people who start taking portrait photos are v ...
chobit 發表於 2012/5/3 13:05


I am actually not sure what I am looking at. Since we can't see her faces, I assume that this is a study about human body form/curvature rather than emotion. If this was the case, I don't find her body that interesting.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-3 18:22

Interesting :o

I am actually not sure what I am looking at. Since we can't see her faces, I assume that this is a ...
快樂牛郎 發表於 2012-5-3 16:27
作者: librazhy    時間: 2012-5-3 20:32

this is a very nice picture
作者: librazhy    時間: 2012-5-3 20:37

which lighting technique was taken with this setup?
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-3 21:44

i like the background too
except I don't like the facial expression of this model.....
kinda "over"......
作者: Catpiano    時間: 2012-5-3 22:13

Ding ..  

What are you guys doing ar??

Some cute asian (chinese I guess) photos vs scary bloody white dudes photo??
作者: BiscottiGelato    時間: 2012-5-3 22:51

Ding ..  

What are you guys doing ar??

Some cute asian (chinese I guess) photos vs scary bloody w ...
Catpiano 發表於 2012-5-3 22:13



LOLL x2
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-4 08:29

catpiano一針見血.......
didn't realize tim, haha
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 08:57

Lol, who post what, as long as it's portrait related, I think I have nothing against them.  but then honestly, I was hoping more LYK would post their photos too.

Like many other photographers, I am still learning, and I don't think that's an end to it, yet I believe I can still contribute my experiences in portrait/wedding phtography so that we can all gain something from it, other than "Oh.. nice photo, period"

Anyway, let's share, and ask, and contribute, and keep this place activities. =D

(It's funny that the 3 active LYKs on this forum.  2 of us are now in Seattle, while you are in AB.)

Ding ..  

What are you guys doing ar??

Some cute asian (chinese I guess) photos vs scary bloody w ...
Catpiano 發表於 2012-5-3 22:13
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 09:27

It was a off camera flash setup.  I did bring me an umberlla, but it's one of those that works a like a softbox, so there is no light leaking from the edge.

As you can see from the picture, the sky is brighter on the top right, so that's where the direction the sun light comes from.  Then on the right, was where I decided on the angle and output needed.

It was not a studio setup, nor I am the only photographer.  We can of just take turns very quickly.  So, at the end you only have a few seconds to think about your shots.  Everything needed to be ready by quick estimate only.

(I think there were 5 photograpers)  It was an event that was posted on LYK back in 2009 before she left Vancouver and moved back to HK.

which lighting technique was taken with this setup?
librazhy 發表於 2012-5-3 20:37
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 09:29

Hey.. nice to see you here.

LOLL x2
BiscottiGelato 發表於 2012-5-3 22:51
作者: librazhy    時間: 2012-5-4 10:29

It was a off camera flash setup.  I did bring me an umberlla, but it's one of those that works a lik ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-4 09:27


since I've never tried a off camera flash, I 'm confused. did you mean all 5 photographers sharing one off camera flash?
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 12:15

Nah.., I was the only one using a off camera flash, cuz I was/am picky.
I usually just let them shoot first, so once they are just there standing checking their images, then I sneak in quickliy and get my shots done.

As for off camera.  I have a wireless device which trigger the flash to go off wirelessly.  The build in Canon flash (excluding the new ones coming) uses Infrad to trigger and it doesn't work well at all.  So, my setup involve another device called "Radiopopper" which convert the IR into radio which allow me to trigger easily over 50 meteres.  (who cares).

Another thingi s TTL.  Normal stobe setup can only work together with you camera up to the X-sync speed of 1/60 - 1/200.  (Some can do better, especially MF with leaf shutter.  But Canon flash can operate using FP mode, while you loss flash power, but you can work with the limitation, take picture with your lens wide open outdoor where it isn't possible in the past.

since I've never tried a off camera flash, I 'm confused. did you mean all 5 photographers sharing ...
librazhy 發表於 2012-5-4 10:29
作者: librazhy    時間: 2012-5-4 13:18

chobit, do you use distance meter ? or metering device?
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 13:48

In house studio works, then yes I would use a light meter.  Outdoor no.

1> The flash w/modifier usually can't overpower the sun unless it get very close to the subject.
2> It's on E-TTL, so you actually control the power output using flash compensation from your camera, or if you are using 2 groups of lights, then the ST-E2 can adjust the power ratio between the 2 groups.

Every so often, I may turn the flash into M at full power when I know this is what I need, but rarely.

Using light meter + manual setup, you get very consistant light output from your flash, so you are fully in control.  Yet, you don't always have the luxury (Time) to take your time.  Also, if you subject loss interest, then you won't be able to capture anything good.

For me, I'll pick the TTL setup over manual..  The extra time allow communicate your model.  The communication allow your model to understand what you need, and it also allows you to modify their mood, which essentially become part of emotions in your photo.
chobit, do you use distance meter ? or metering device?
librazhy 發表於 2012-5-4 13:18
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 13:57

Looks like I should stay away from posting asians for the next few photos.

I think she did have the kind of look/style matches the very well with everything.
作者: Catpiano    時間: 2012-5-4 19:12

i like the background too
except I don't like the facial expression of this model.....
kinda "over". ...
嘉嘉 發表於 2012-5-3 21:44



    Well .. probably ABC ..  always "over" ga la..
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-4 19:48

Well .. probably ABC ..  always "over" ga la..
Catpiano 發表於 2012-5-4 19:12


you mean CBC? chobit said it was shot at UBC ga bor~
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-4 19:50

Looks like I should stay away from posting asians for the next few photos.

I think she did have the ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-4 13:57


I like the 2nd better
but personally I think the water tap on the right is kinda distracting
her pose in the 1st looks kinda 生硬
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 20:09

I never thought about the water tap.  Thank you!

I like the 2nd better
but personally I think the water tap on the right is kinda distracting
her p ...
嘉嘉 發表於 2012-5-4 19:50
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 20:12

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-4 20:16 編輯

Those 2 kind of go together too.
If I remember correctly, I thinkt the Last 2 pictures was on 50mm f/2.5 lens
This 2 are from 35mm f/2
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 20:33

One more at 20mm
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-4 21:55

Those 2 kind of go together too.
If I remember correctly, I thinkt the Last 2 pictures was on 50mm f ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-4 20:12


This time I like first one~
pose is good, everything seems good
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-4 22:03

本帖最後由 嘉嘉 於 2012-5-4 22:04 編輯

ok I don't really do portraits........
but i will just share one of my frd's bb's photos (and hopefully she doesn't find out and kill me XD cuz I didn't get permission to post~~~~~ but would be nice to get some comments/critiques too)

this one just from my 50mm 1.8, and was shot at F2.8, 1/60......focus was a bit soft? or maybe I shaked my hand a little?


I don't really know much about portraits and doing baby photos...
just trying to capture every moment of her.....don't know what else I can do leh?

i am looking forward to do a photo session with her and her parents when she's maybe few months older (currently 2.5 weeks old ^_^)
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 22:10

Yeah.. I think the first one is better too.  It's simply more balance,  Head on the left, while the other object on the right.  Thanks!

This time I like first one~
pose is good, everything seems good
嘉嘉 發表於 2012-5-4 21:55
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 22:15

I made so very quick change, I think it's a little better, but only you can be the judge.

I adjust the brightness and contrast a little, Clone away the top right, I left the white, since I think it's ok to stay there as part of the photo, and I crop away the bottom a little.

Sorry for changing your photo, but as far as I concern, even without making any changes, this is still a good photo to look back years from now.  It's not like every single photo we take will need to go to a photo contest or something.  But then I think it wouldn't hurt to think about how to improve this the next time.
Thank you for sharing..!  I dont' used to like kids.  Now that i have 2, I really like them, and babies too =D

ok I don't really do portraits........
but i will just share one of my frd's bb's photos (and hopefu ...
嘉嘉 發表於 2012-5-4 22:03
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-4 22:23

本帖最後由 嘉嘉 於 2012-5-4 22:27 編輯

thanks!

yeah I think the brightness could be improved too (actually i did adjust it just 10 min ago too ^^ but didn't upload)

and thx for pointing out the corner and cloning away the purse too~!!
i didn't notice about the purse until i looked back at the photo on my computer, haha
it was a quick snapshot of the baby plus i didn't want to disturb too much, so wasn't paying a lot of attention to the surrounding.....^_^;;; (yes, excuse excuse excuse....)

i don't use to do kid photos too....
but now that she is my best frd's baby, and when they see the pictures i took, they smile a lot, that really makes me happy too ^^ and it's fun to capture all the expression of the baby cuz sometimes it just happen for 1 second and gone.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-4 22:41

I used to over concern about creating the very best photo everytime, and lost many important moments, but I changed few years ago.
What's more important than capture the shots, you know your honeymoon time, the happy moment, the kids having funs, your friends, your friends kids.  If you don't take the shot because something in the background doesn't look good, you may alreay loss that important moment.
Obviously, I am not saying it's still ok if nothing looks right in the shots, but I just don't think it's possible to keep everything perfect without giving up opportunities.
I take alot more snapshots these days, and I am happy I that I do.

thanks!

yeah I think the brightness could be improved too (actually i did adjust it just 10 min ago ...
嘉嘉 發表於 2012-5-4 22:23
作者: 嘉嘉    時間: 2012-5-4 23:40

thanks for the advice

I do get a bit lost about myself when I am overly doing snapshots and not think before i click my shutter.....is that really ok? am I not forcing myself to learn better?
but yes it's true that I could end up losing a lot of important moment....so I guess sometimes I  just really have to decide whether i want the "moment" or I want a well composed photo....

one more that i want to share of the baby's photo


I didn't like it at first cuz of the shadow on her face, coming from her mitten
but i looked at it later and started to think it's not bad
except one thing that made me regret so much >< it's that i should have included her dad's hand more! so that i could show a comparison of her small body and the big hand, sigh....i should have noticed
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-7 00:25

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-7 00:29 編輯

Back to my this.
Bad: some of the shadows, but then there is very little I can do with just one light, and this is with no photoshop.
Good:  I think she is very pretty, and looks wonderful from the side as well, and her hair was beautiful
As for the compostion.  I included the white on the right and the left for over balance, but white doesn't touch her head in the photo.  It's sort like an accent color, or allow the hair and everything not lossing it's outline.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-7 00:33

本帖最後由 chobit 於 2012-5-7 00:35 編輯

As you continue to train you eyes, you will eventually no need to spend very little time to analyze the light, or work on your compostion.  The sample photos I posted normally take less than 10-20 seconds to capture.  In some cases maybe a min at the most.  

thanks for the advice

I do get a bit lost about myself when I am overly doing snapshots and not thi ...
嘉嘉 發表於 2012-5-4 23:40
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-7 00:44

Bad: Outside the windows may be a little bright.  It's find it ok, but I don't think everyone like that.
My idea:  Catch light ont he eyes, the mood.  I tend to take picture with composition that can balance the photo itself.  The vertical white curtain on the left, and the extra gap provide on the right.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-7 00:51

I guess this photos is about her beautiful dress on her.
作者: chobit    時間: 2012-5-7 00:54

The last of this batch!
作者: Look4chrisng    時間: 2012-5-7 08:22

I made so very quick change, I think it's a little better, but only you can be the judge.

I adjust  ...
chobit 發表於 2012-5-4 22:15



    This is a lovely photo.  I love the placement of the hand, it lets us see how tiny the baby is, and the bonding.

The photo is a bit low key and there always seem to have colour issues with low key photos.  Maybe newer cameras do a better job in rendering colours.  For this photo, I would turn to b/w.



歡迎光臨 溫哥華老友記討論區 (http://loyaukee.com/forum/) Powered by Discuz! 7.2