Playing with Layla and the Light

Bilsen

I've been hearing lately from friends that most of my work is "too similar" and "too commercial" so, with the help of lovely Layla, I decided to try being an arteest. Let me know if I got anywhere close.

Basic setup is a strobe from the side, a 48" reflector opposite and a hairlight in the first couple.

Click the first image for the full gallery but please skip the Bond Girl if you're worried about her weapon handling.:rofl



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coolpinsky

last 2 are best in my opinion

Bryce Wilson

Can't tell you why exactly, but I'm not liking these at all.

I think maybe the light needs to be a bunch softer.

Bilsen

Thanks guys.

Obviously I'm experimenting outside my comfort zone and I put these up pretty much SOOC for exactly these comments. I'll continue shooting my normal stuff but every so often I'll hit you all with a set like this just to see what happens.

Dreadnote

I think you are working at cross purposes. Specifically, the hardish light together with the dark "over the top" eye make-up are working directly against the soft sensual feeling that a semi nude photo traditionally evokes. That coupled with what are not really flattering angles (for example the first 2 draw too much attention to the square jawline giving it an almost "boxer" like feeling) are making these fall flat for me too. Sorry.

Bilsen

No need to be sorry dread, I appreciate the comments. Ask around, When I try something new I usually put them up and take whatever beatings come along.

One point of interest, I just last night was watching a tutorial from a pro who believes the strong jawline is the sine qua non of a good portrait. Layla did that correctly according to that theory.

Thatnks again.