Today we have some images from our first Superclass at the Convention which was on Portraiture, one of our favourite subjects. It always amazes and astounds me at how complicated some photographers can make such a simple subject as a portrait. Lighting on the first 2 images was simply with a large Bowens soft box with a reflector kicking light back in from left of camera, nothing difficult or complicated. The second image was to demonstrate how easy it is to create a simple portrait with only available light and a reflector. here the light was coming from camera right with the reflector providing some fill on Christiane’s face. I saw this image as a simple yet dynamic portrait with the red seats disappearing in to the background providing a strong focal point on the subject.

I again appeal to anybody setting out in Portrait Photography to learn to see and use light, leave buying any new kit until you have mastered your lighting. Use family, friends, neighbours etc. as your subjects, always use the largest light source you can afford be that a soft box or daylight and remember at all times to keep it as simple as possible allowing you to spend time in conversation with your client. I use a 20+ year old soft box and Bowens head in our studio, it is always set to the same output so I know never have to worry about exposure, occasionally I will use a second, much smaller, soft box to provide either some fill or separation from the background but once again its a very simple set -up. Your lighting should become second nature to you  so be it in your studio or a clients home you should know to half a stop what your exposure should be, the unfortunate thing is this only comes with practise and experience which is why again I say if you are dedicated to improving your portrait lighting skills get out there and photograph!

The first portrait taken on our Super class Faye has left in colour because of Christiane’s striking hair.

I love the colour image but when converted to black and white with just a hint of tone added it reminds me of a 1930’s Holywood Glamour Portrait

The final image today is a simple daylight portrait of Christiane taken in one of the booths of the Planet Suite of the Novotel. Daylight coming from camera right and a fill camera left provided by a reflector. That’s it.. simple!