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Photography Question 

Michael Wasson
 

Looking for Bridal Portrait Critiques


Here is the link to my gallery. I would really like some critiques on my bridal portraits .This was my first bridal session. My clients are extremly pleased. Still I would like some thoughts from fellow Photographers.

http://www.betterphoto.com/gallery/free/gallery.php?mem=163008


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May 24, 2007

 

W.
 
Hi Michael,

"bridals" 2, 3, 4, and 5 seem out of focus, next to "Bridal 1". Did you use a diffusion or a soft focus filter?
I would try to keep the same focus-type for all photos in that sequence.

"Bridal 3" needs straightening. The perpendiculars in the gazebo are out of whack.

Also, all of the photos in that sequence are a bit too bluish for my taste.

Have fun!


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May 24, 2007

 

Michael Wasson
  I did a soft focus on these in software. I also had all these without the effect as well.


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May 24, 2007

 

Samuel Smith
  ya did good mike.nothing is out of whack.freaking bluish tint?
although she looks a bit scared,remind her/them several shots will be taken,and that we will not get it wrong.
customers happy,just take the edge off.
don't miss the chance to talk to the flower girls,the mum in law,the father of the bride.
it is not a job,treat it as an adventure and enjoy.
maybe it's just me,sam


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May 24, 2007

 

Michael Wasson
  Thanks for the encouragement Sam. I am starting to get excited about the wedding . It's in two weeks. Fortunatly I will have a good friend of Mine who is also a Photographer helping out. If this goes well it could really be the start of something big for me. I know these shots are good and the client was happy enough to give me a refferal and thats what counts.


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May 25, 2007

 

Kerry L. Walker
  All in all, I like your composition but I do have one minor suggestion. When you take a photo of a bride looking down, have her tilt her head down and then look up, with her eyes, at something in the distance. That way you will get her eyes in the picture, not just her eyelids.


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May 25, 2007

 

Michael Wasson
  Thanks for the input Kerry . I will definently remember that on my next bridal shoot.


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May 25, 2007

 

Samuel Smith
  guess I will also thank you kerry,tidbits,sidenotes.positive.
some of us don't know these little things,let alone getting dragged down by muckrackers.carp of the fish world.
sometimes confidence and personality will greatly overide knowledge.
none of these people are out to shoot you down michael,get excited and enjoy.
maybe over at the keg you'll finally get the brides father give up a real smile.and the little flower girl comes over at the reception and asks if your a real photographer.you do have time for this mike,it won't happen again.
thanks for the post kerry,i was ready for bp to set up a charity event to put me in the ring with someone.i kinda realize it's not the way,but I am me.
have a hoot michael,sam


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May 25, 2007

 
- Carlton Ward

BetterPhoto Member
Contact Carlton Ward
Carlton Ward's Gallery
  Nice job Mike,
Did you convert any of these to Black & White ? Michael is giving great advice and I have found there is no cut & paste for doing weddings as they all take on their own dynamics, just try to find the groove and capture the essence of the day. Some of the most emotional shots can come in the brides dressing room if everyone will allow you inside and ignore your presence, you can capture some fantastic photos. Watch the expressions as the bride is sliding her dress on. Pay attention to the wedding party as well as they can give you some very emotional captures that can enhance the experience of the day's events in a journalistic way. I am no expert in wedding photography but have been able to shoot quite a few with great results by just being aware of the little things happening with all involved surrounding the event. The traditional photos are what the clients will buy (family portraits & Bride/Groom pics) but the in between photos will tell more about the days happenings and will get you high praise and referrals. Just make sure you have the basics covered (cf cards, lenses, batteries, tripod, backup camera, lighting) and be confident.
Can't wait to see your results.


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May 26, 2007

 

Robyn Gwilt
  Hi Michael I had a very quick look, and nothing looked radically out of kilter - very nice - on the right track. Maybe a bit of variance in pose/body positioning - some of the back of the dress, looking over her shoulder etc. Best thing is to spend hours on the net, looking at other peoples sites to get idea's for 'posing' especially the 'non-posed' poses! As Carlton has also suggested, grab the unsuspected shots, dressing, close ups, hands/shoes, emotions, and yes, each bride/wedding is different, the trick is to try to bring new idea's in all the time :)


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May 27, 2007

 

Michael Wasson
  AgainI appreciate everyones feed back. I have a few days to go. Wow I bet I am as newvous as the bride and groom. I will be sure and post some of the wedding shots for you all to see. Thanks again.


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May 30, 2007

 
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