About the Image(s)
This is a portrait from the Denis studio series. You know him as Raffael from October. I was inspired by the internet because I didn't want to take a classic portrait at eye level.
I photographed Denis standing on a chair. I like this photo best. The position of his head and his facial expression speak for themselves, he looks natural without posing too much. For me, a shirt is also part of it, we decided together on the blue, slightly torn one. The necklace with the pendant is his lucky charm.
The light came from one side and at an angle from above. The light was not easy to set, because a light that is too bright on the forehead is difficult to edit. The background was a black canvas.
I increased the overall brightness so that the hair could be seen and not disappear into the black background.
Any comments are welcome as always.
Canon EOS RP 55mm f/6.3 1/160 sec ISO 200 flashlight
Jim Overfield
Very nice portrait photo. All colors are warm and comforting, the model's expression and pose appear comfortable and natural. Face and hair are focused and sharp. The background is perfect. Very impressive post processing. Portrait photography is one of my many weaknesses, so I appreciate the details you provided for your set up. I'm impressed with your results using a single light source. Can you tell me more about your flashlight used (Tungsten bulb, LED, distance from the subject)? Did you use a tripod? Great photo!   Posted: 11/08/2024 12:54:28
Sabine Nehls
Jim, thank you for your detailed comment.
Since I didn't take a photo on set, I'll try a drawing that will hopefully answer your questions.
I photographed from a handheld position.  
Posted: 11/12/2024 15:46:32
Jim Overfield
Great detailed diagram of your set-up, which I didn't expect, and much more involved than I imagined. Thank you for your efforts Sabine.   Posted: 11/13/2024 17:30:05
Sylvia Williams
This is a great portrait. I love that you got on a chair for this shot. While I do prefer this shot, I also like like the original, it seems a bit edgier.
  Posted: 11/08/2024 15:39:15
Sabine Nehls
Thank you for your comment, Sylvia.
What don't you do for a photo, even get up on a wobbly chair.   Posted: 11/12/2024 18:26:35
Yvonne Cary Carter
Sabine, What I like about your image is that it shows "Raffael's" personality. The pose highlights his eyes giving the viewer a sense of Denis. Choosing a torn shirt and his lucky necklace adds more to his identity. Great portrait.
I'm curious, what is the Denis studio series?
  Posted: 11/13/2024 13:08:28
Sabine Nehls
Yvonne, Thank you for your comment. I called it "Denis studio series" , a series of Denis with different poses, different clothes and silhouette shots (photographed against the light).   Posted: 11/15/2024 17:10:36
Yvonne Cary Carter
Sounds like a fun shoot with all the wardrobe changes. I haven't done any studio shooting but I hear playing music adds another creative piece. I admire your talent for shooting all types of photography.   Posted: 11/18/2024 19:24:02
Linda Mui
Sabine, this portrait of Denis is fantastic! The elevated perspective adds a unique, engaging quality that really stands out from typical eye-level portraits, and Denis's expression feels natural and authentic. The lighting from above creates a beautiful depth and accentuates his features without overwhelming highlights.
The black canvas background works well to keep the focus on Denis, and your choice to brighten the image just enough to show detail in his hair was smart. The worn blue shirt and necklace add personality, enhancing the relaxed, genuine feel of the portrait. Overall, it's a striking, character-rich image!   Posted: 11/14/2024 13:45:43
Sabine Nehls
Linda, Thanks for your comment.
Denis was a first-time model and just looks natural.
At the moment he is in Japan. When he returns, I hope to do another photo shooting.   Posted: 11/15/2024 17:16:14
Randy Bell
Sabine, I like the perspective you chose to take this shot. It is good to get creative and to think outside the box. His pose looks natural and relaxed, which adds to the photo. I think you did well to open up the shadows on his face and the background to provide some separation. It's a nice portrait of him.   Posted: 11/15/2024 00:05:00
Sabine Nehls
Randy, I agree with you. Sometimes I have to try something new, even if it's just a different perspective. Thanks for your comment.   Posted: 11/15/2024 17:19:55
Douglas Gerdts
There's a level of intimacy in this portrait that is captivating. The photo draws me in and I was to hear what he's thinking or what his perception is of the situation. Gorgeous eyes and expression.
I think the lighting is especially good and the fact that his face is in such sharp focus in contrast to the rest of him.
Really love this portait!   Posted: 11/17/2024 19:27:03