Studio Portraits Evaluation

This assignment I was looking forward to as I'll have the feel and experience on what studios and lighting are all about and whats the process of it all which isn't easy at all. Starting this assignment I have noticed that the class and me all put up a mask on us to hide the uncomfortable feel towards taking pictures of ourselfs and just pull faces until it was the right time for everyone to not feel awkward with each each other and have fun, get to know everyone with banter, but eventually near the end we took serious portraits to show the subjects real self. Learning all the lighting techniques was interesting how shadows create a mood to a persons face such as making the faces appear dramatic. For my final portraits I have used the lighting of Rembrandt triangle that is illuminated underneath the eye socket on one side of face creating a shape and subtle tones revealing a side light, but doing this lighting creates an mystery emotion on subject as it can give a look of a dark place which I liked to show insecurity to one of my subjects. Researching into history of photographs helped me think in depth on what portraits means, to give me ideas on what my theme could be on this assignment which I would like to bring out subjects souls to picture, bringing out their personality and character making a meaning to the portrait. I admit I was scared when tutors brought out all the equipment used in the studio, a lot to take in but great to be taught the lighting techniques and never knew that shadows can create moods and excitement. I didn't think much at start of course what a portrait is, I thought at first it's kind of like taking photo's of yourself seeing your changes through the days and coming out of your shell, showing who you are and viewers just read whats in front of their eyes. Most people don't like getting pictures taken because it's a scare to let loose and express your beauty due to judgement on looks and personality so they become a mask.  The real challenge for me is to get the focus right from inside the camera and press the button quickly to get the emotion that is made as I wanted a portrait natural and not the subject forcing a face just capturing a part of their character flashed into an image. For my finals I have used the technique on creating a black background to make images dramatic by having the backing light lower Fstop than the subject and having camera back in distance, being in a small group was easier to interact with each individual as you can get to know them comfortably and less crowded to set up the studio kit correctly and less stressful. By knowing the group split into a small one helped to get great pictures as I think this helps people to feel more settled and not rushed to get portrait's done as you don't feel the need to finish as quickly for people to have a go.  The first image I liked as she brought out character who is worried, deep in thought, or a slight shock expression. Third image I took the shot of him all laid back and relaxed.