I'm new to getting involved on the forums, but as I've been reading through different threads I'm realizing I'd like to start taking my portfolio more seriously.

This part of it, anyways... https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/1397083/343454


My background: I'm new to working with models, and so far I've really only worked with a good friend of mine — she's relatively experienced and often opinionated on what she likes. I'd like to learn how to give better feedback as we go and learn what works best so as I branch out to work with other models, I'm not leaving them hanging without good communication.


What I'm looking for in critique if you choose to grace me with your time and feedback:

1) How could I have participated in making these better shots during the shoot?

2) Any advice on how much editing (skin flaws especially) is "too much" or "too little"? I like a very authentic feel and tend not to erase all the blemishes, but obviously things like acne should go.

3) On B&W images: Sometimes I feel as if she melts into the background because maybe there wasn't enough contrast to begin with... do I just ditch these types of images altogether or is there some way of salvaging these situations?


Disclaimer #1: Most of these were shot with a decent camera, but there are several from when we first started shooting together when we didn't have much to work with as far as equipment was concerned. For those, I don't need heavy critique other than perhaps overall composition.

Disclaimer #2: The locale for these is also somewhat limited. I'm looking to diversify locations and backdrops as we go. This includes the fact I'm hoping to also begin working with other models.


Thank you so much for all of your help. Any and all things constructive are more than welcomed. I'd like to continue creating better and more interesting art as I go.

I'm just going to be honest with you. I actually really like your work. It is very apparent you are working with an experienced model because she has incredible control in her posing and a good sense of space and position.

I think you clearly have some great ideas and make good use of your surroundings. Though you use natural light, I feel you use it pretty well to your advantage. Your composition is usually pretty interesting.

To me two things are currently holding you back. One is diversity. More models, more concepts, more locations. But that comes with time, so that's a small point.

The other is post production. I feel like the images could use a bit of tonal and color work overall to really pull the maximum emotion out of them. Though I respect the "raw" aspect, I think the location feels a tad bland to me. Some color grading could probably spice it up.

To answer you question about skin correction....really depends on you. I think for your style a  more gritty appearance is warranted.

As for B&W work, if you use photoshop, you can quite easily tone a B&W image by controlling the luminance in various channels. It's a nice and simple way to add some pop to the subject.

Cheers

Thank you for the feedback! I appreciate the overall encouragement.

Peter House wrote:
The other is post production. I feel like the images could use a bit of tonal and color work overall to really pull the maximum emotion out of them. Though I respect the "raw" aspect, I think the location feels a tad bland to me. Some color grading could probably spice it up.

I've done a lot of experimentation with coloration, but it's been a while since I really focused on the basics here. Do you (or anyone reading this) know of any good resources/tutorials for me to re-visit this?

Obviously I have access to Google and will be using it to find what I can, but there are often hidden gems people keep bookmarked... which is why I ask.

Peter House wrote:
As for B&W work, if you use photoshop, you can quite easily tone a B&W image by controlling the luminance in various channels. It's a nice and simple way to add some pop to the subject.

Thank you! I am constantly forgetting the range of tools available in good ol' Photoshop