lighting critique needed **NOTE** topless guy

[kamari]

i'm lookin for some lighting advice that could make this (or any for that matter) photo better. This was from a series of test shots taken.

[rott]

I think it just needs more drama. Your model has great abs and muscles that could really benefit from strong side lighting. Heck, I might even experiment with some super dramatic top lighting with him, depending on the goals of the shoot.

How about a strong narrow side light instead of a giant soft box or umbrella? From the shadows and catch lights it looks like you had your main light pretty much straight on and slightly above subject.

[Detonate]

I agree...

Looks like you just need a more harsh light for him....

Although I think this image is will work....

I attached a couple versions...

(1) Removed Color Cast and slight contrast boost.
(2) Boosted the contrast of the shadows some more. Slight masking of the face and pants
(3) Just for fun! :P

[kamari]

preciate it. This was done with just a SB600 bounced off of a 9ft ceiling. I'm looking to invest in a set of strobes and so I've been really curious with the differences in strobes and the speedlight setups. Been debating over the purchase of several SB800s for portability or just break down and get the big boys for the good light.

After talking with a few camera folk in shops around town me thinks me may forego the SB800s and, for the price of just one 800 plus umbrellas & yada yada yada, I could spend the same $600 ballpark money and get at least an entry level flash setup.