Canon 1D Mk II, Canon 24-70, F/4 @ 1/125
I started my (hopefully) year long project “Mothers and Daughters” this past weekend. Since the paying clients are few and far between I decided to start a project where I get to choose the subjects, the sitting and the shot types. I also wanted to try shooting half digital and half film. Most of my personal photography has been film for the better part of the last year so I wanted to see how it would stack up to digital capture. These images are digital, I’ll post the film shots next week after they’re finished.
Since meeting her I’ve wanted to try and shoot a portrait of this little girl, Naomi. For me, portraits are all about the eyes and Naomi has a positively magnetic set. She’s also a little shy so I knew it wouldn’t be easy to get her to open up in front of the camera. She and her mother Chi Chi were great subjects and I’m happy to have a more than a few keepers from the session. This is the first image I chose to work up and I wanted to share it while I get the rest of the set processed. The top image is a little more contrasty and has a silver tone. The bottom image is a little softer, less contrasty and has a slightly coffee tone.
Which do you prefer and why?
Chris, these are both awesome!
I think I like the second picture best because of the softness. It also makes my skin appear to be more clear and blemish free!
I am so excited and cannot wait to see the rest!
Comment by Chi Chi — February 18, 2010 @ 7:50 AM
I love this! The second, definitely – since the subject matter is mothers & daughters, you want to portray them in a soft and gentle (loving) light. The crispness of the silver tone is very nice, but better suited for an athlete, motivational speaker or a situation where you might want to emphasize intensity or definition.
Beautiful! Can’t wait to see the others!!!
Comment by Taryn — February 18, 2010 @ 8:43 AM
Thanks for the feedback, it is very appreciated.
I agree that the softer tone is more flattering while the more contrasty tone might make a better print.
It’s good to step back and hear what others think. One can often lose focus on the ultimate goal of an image when concentrating on the individual aspects of exposure, contrast, etc.
If I may ask – how did you find my blog?
Chris
Comment by Chris — February 18, 2010 @ 9:22 AM
Wow! Love it! ChiChi your right about the softness for you works better but for Naomi the first picture is the best! Her eyes seem like they are staring right to into my soul. It’s the crispness or total contrast. Great shots! How do I sign up?
Comment by Tara — February 18, 2010 @ 1:49 PM
Thanks for the comments. I tried the higher contrast version for just that reason; Naomi’s eyes really light up. The silver tone accentuates it even more. But as always, you have to find a happy medium to make a successful portrait.
To get blog updates, look at the right side menu, bottom box – it should be labeled “Get Updates” with an entry box for your email. Just enter your email and hit the “Sign Up” button. You can see my other portfolio site by hitting the “My Stuff” –> “My Portfolio” link at the right or by clicking here.
Sincerely,
Chris
Comment by Chris — February 18, 2010 @ 6:12 PM
I love both photographs; the top photo is crisp and the bottom one is soft and tender. Great work!!
Comment by Alice Anyanwu — February 18, 2010 @ 6:17 PM
Thank you for the kind words.
I hope the rest of the series is as well received. This is excellent motivation to finish up and get them posted!
Sincerely,
Chris
Comment by Chris — February 18, 2010 @ 6:30 PM
These are great pictures Chi Chi! You and Naomi look amazing. I have to say I like the first picture; Chi Chi’s hair looks as if it disappears into the corner and my favorite part is the crispness of the clasped hands. The silvery tone to me looks like the picture was taken decades ago, and Naomi is just to cute in the first one. And despite your best efforts Chi Chi we all know you aren’t that old.
I want to sign up too, but do I have to pick just one daughter?
Comment by Shelby — February 18, 2010 @ 6:37 PM
To those who would like to do a mother/daughter shoot, please email me at chris@chrispiperphotography.com.
Sincerely,
Chris
Comment by Chris — February 19, 2010 @ 3:07 AM