I am trying to take some portraits of my little one...Here are a few pics I have taken...I was wondering if I could get some lighting tips from some of you to help me take some better pictures...

For starters...I do realize I should use a lighter background..

TIA

 

What's wrong with the lighting??

 

Lighting looks really soft. You just needed to lighten it up a bit

 

Hard to improve on your lighting unless you WANT more shadows. I like Norm's adjustments but that red is burning my eyes now. Maybe a little desaturation...

 

Should I add more light somewhere? This is what I am trying to figure out...I do have umbrella lights I can set up. Also, if I do set up the lights, where should I place them?

 

It all depends on what you are looking to achieve... Take a look at this

 

Thanks for all the help everyone...Maybe it's just me...

It just seems to me that the pictures are missing something...Most likely its the amateur behind the camera...

 

Okay, if you feel the need to go all pro on us, you should probably use a "rim" or kicker light on her head (aimed from behind, not shining directly into the camera and not spilling onto the visible part of the chair) to separate the edges from the background more.

 

thats right, it depends on what your trying to achieve.

I am a studio photographer in Orlando and we use several different lighting types, from high key to profiles and traditionals.

Honestly, whatever you did looks pretty good already. It could be a little lighter, but good job. I actualy like your background, I wish I had something like it at my studio!

 

Norm's link is the "right" way, but sometimes, the best shots are candids, and a setup shot is not gonna happen. With that in mind, you want a hotshoe flash boucing off the walls or ceiling for the best "on the fly" effect....something like this...

Shot with a 70-200 2.8 with a 580EXII....







Also, PM bkw.....

He had a camera specially made by Canon that can only take photos of his little girl. He is the king of that.