My son and his fiance

[sparkie1263]

My son and his fiance at there engagement party.I need work on my people pictures. I cannot seem to get any good pictures. I think I am better at things that don't stay still like birds.

[DonSchap]

Frank ... perhaps a lesson or two in portraiture might be of value.

I do not want to be overcritical, but I know that the framing in this particular shot needs work. I certainly do not want to be the one giving the advice, though. A couple of the Canon-guys do this on a routine basis and can offer a better approach to it.

I also would like to hear from them, but if I start offering suggestions, people tend to stay on the sidelines. This is a help forum, for the benefit of one and all ... so, how about guys ... what would YOU do to make this handsome couple more "portrait-like"?

[sparkie1263]

I know I need alot of work taking portraits. I just don't know how to position people. This is one area I didn't do any reading on. I think I will start to do some research. Unlike taking pictures at a wedding or a party there is alot you need to know. I hope some people will give me some pointers. Don feel free to give me some pointers if nobody starts to chime in.

Thanks
Frank

[dr4gon]

hmm I'm really not sure what's terribly wrong. (or really wrong at all, because I would take something like that, haha), but we are definitely here to learn, so I'd like to see all the critiques people can give. After all, that's why sparkie posted it.

The only thing is the flash is a bit harsh and not natural and the focus seems to be pretty sharp on the trees although they both seem very much in focus (the fiance more so).

[DonSchap]

Look ... the follow information is worth a read ... and I am posting it strictly as a reference point in taking images like these. Everyone can learn something ... but practice makes us better, for sure.

Please read through this: -> 12 Portrait Photographers

Then, review the shot submitted.

@ Frank: Can you post the original image, BEFORE the crop?

The TAMRON Learning Center (<- click here) is a wonderful collection of thoughts, procedures, images and considerations for all of us to appreciate. Experience/Knowledge is true power ... and in photography, it prepares you for the ... next shot.

[dr4gon]

Maybe something like this?

[SpecialK]

Maybe something like this?

I guess I'll play.

Not too close a crop, so that the hands are still visible holding each other, and Mike's body does not disappear off the frame.

[Rooz]

the only thing wrong with that pic is the background. (and i dont personally like square crops). otherwise theres nothing wrong with it.

[JonathanJ]

I agree that it is a nice photo, but the background is a little distracting.

My quick attempt at blurring the background:



It is a Gaussian Blur, used a quick mask to select the background.

Cheers,

JJ

[TheWengler]

Here's what I would do (that doesn't make it right )...

First I would shoot in a direction so that the tree is right behind them. Then I'd brighten up the exposure a little bit (personal preference). Then I'd crop it differently. For me, your son's head is too close to the top of the frame which isn't always bad, but I don't like it here. Your future daughter in law seems to be falling out the side of the picture. I guess it doesn't seem very balanced.