Update: We were originally going to give the pro a second chance but our gut instincts tells us it wasn't going to be any better. So I invested in basic lighting equipment and a 33" 5-in-1 reflector then planned on a shoot this afternoon. Below are the ones that made the "final cut". All of these were done with her holding a reflector just outside of the frame, the last three were inside a white gazebo that acted as a nice bounce reflector for an on-camera Metz48. I just slapped the Metz on-camera since it was already dark and cold and didn't really have the time to setup off camera flash/umbrella - her face was beginning to turn pink! Since this was my very first "official shoot" I can see what improvements I still need (Background, Proper catch-lights positioning, exposure, etc.), but she's much happier with these than our previous experience. Makeup was done by her, too!
I took people's advice(s) and shot most these at f4. The first shot was in our backyard (yes, that offending fence again
) - it's also heavily cropped! We'll be planning on a second round maybe next weekend. In the meantime, in addition to the listed improvements I need above, what do you guys think of the results from our first session? Suggestions?
P.S. Thank you "Slip" for the cheetahstand suggestions - I just might include this on my Santa's wish-list
Will Otis like these - Mr. Rupert?
Last edited by K57XR; 11-13-2016 at 10:26 AM.