Photography Experiments: Portraits

Just did a simple portraiture experiment today with my Phottix Mitros flash.  Tested several configurations, and just wanted to get the gist of using the flash.  The harsh shadow was annoying, maybe using another diffuser and a fill light might help, but no tools on hand other than white A4 paper, which helped to make it less harsh.  A slight under exposure for most of the shots considering they are portraits. 

I definitely would have used another model, but it was hard to get hold of one in such a short notice, so myself would have to do.  Clearly not that flattering, but aw well. 

Photography Trick: Invisible Black Backdrop

I had a fun little shoot using a technique I learned from this YouTube video.  It involves making use of a small aperture to create a black frame, then using a speedlite to light up the subject.  

Learn a super fast and super easy technique to add a black background into your pictures no matter where you are...indoors or out! In this short video I show you how to use your camera to create a black background in any location and your flash to light just your subject/model.

It was a fun little shoot, and the result was alright.  However, I shouldn't have done this in a hallway where the speedlite would light up the walls and hallway as well.  Great thanks to my friend MW for helping me out being my subject :)

Next time would be to use a multiple light setup to give her a rim light so her hair won't just blend in with the background as much. 

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Hallway Shot - Had to stop down the sides to make it black.  Otherwise the hallway was slightly visible. 

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Wall Backdrop - Tried using a narrowed beam for a little bit more moody shot.  The light got reflected due to the close proximity of the wall in the back, Also messed the focus a little bit.