AboutSteve Pearson Expertise Try me for 35mm or darkroom issues. I am a professional photographer in Australia. I work solely in 35mm digital format, after 35 years of colour and monochrome film in many formats. I have darkroom experience and for many years belonged to my local camera club. I conduct photography workshops around the state on any and most subjects relating to photography and often judge photography exhibitions and competitions.
Experience I hold a Diploma of Applied Science in Forensic Investigation, with part of my studies involving photography. I spend most days with a camera and am into digital photography in a big way. I was given my first camera in 1965 and have not been without one since. I spent nearly 20 years as a forensic investigator with my state Police Force, and since retiring a couple of years ago have concentrated on commercial photography - especially weddings.
Expert: Steve Pearson Date: 1/2/2007 Subject: Portraiture
Question Hi Steve
I'm a beginner Photographer and really interested in the Children portraiture industry
My dream of course would be to own my own studio
but I don't have the space for it
so I'm trying to take indoor and outdoor shots
The problem is that most of the time I don't have sufficient light and the pictures, although have good potential ( I own the Canon30D and good lenses)
don't come as sharp as desired
when I use my camera flash the pictures come out sharper
but I know that photographers usually hate using flash
because it flatten the details
I would love to hear your advise in the subject
also is there much difference between the camera flash and a separate flash unit?
My last question would be what light source is best to use in indoor shots and is it possible to buy something that I can take with me to my clients house?
Thank you very much for your help
Happy new year
Michelle
Answer Hi Michelle. Your problem obviously is your light source. Flash is good, but it must be right. When you refer to your camera flash are you referring to the pop-up flash? If so, it's not worth anything. If you're serious about portrait work you will need a camera-mounted speedlite or a bracket flash. Use one with a twin head, where you can bounce the main flash off a ceiling, wall or reflector. Bouncing gives a more natural look to your lighting and gets rid of the flatness you speak of. That answers your first question. Now for part 2 - refer to answer 1. Use a good flash. Another BIG tip - as you're using a Canon digital camera - shoot in RAW. You say you're a beginner, so to make your life a lot more easier from the beginning, learn about RAW and use it. JPEG is rubbish and is a low-grade alternative for amateurs. Hope this all helps. HNY for 2007. Steve
