Prairie Grass and Sunsets

[KellyL]

We were chasing the sun. I forgot about daylights savings time when we set up the appointment. But I like what happened.

The sun was beginning to set. I looked to the north and saw this gorgeous purples sky. Hollered at Sarah to get into position and we commenced to shooting. We turned and then did some prairie grass shots.

C&C always welcome.

[Doug Johncox]

It looks like you caught the sunset you were chasing. Is the depth of field post produced or correct exposure and f stop. A great look. I wish I had your talent.

[k9ofkaos]

The first one is my pick. I love the pose and the lighting. It's totally krippy!!

[KellyL]

Doug: Correct exposure, f stop and a little luck. One of the things I have learned is that the f stop controls the amount of flash that enters the camera and the shutter speed controls the amount of ambient light. When I set up a shot like this, I try to make the meter read 2/3 underexposed on the sky...at least...and then set the flash to the proper f/stop on the camera. Works most of the time. Sometimes I get very frustrated because the images don't come out with the right light ratio.

I did several test shots on the prairie grass shots to try and get the proper setting, then added the flash.

Mojo: Krippy makes me nervous! Wouldn't you know...Vagabond + one 800 Alien Bee + one Bowen's light stand + 1 Photek Softliter and viola! I'll always thank you for encouraging that Vagabond. It has changed everything.

[nldunne]

My vote is also #1. Keep it up!

[KellyL]

Thanks Norm!

[Rain Lily]

What's krippy?

I love that last one best, Kelly, what a cute expression and the lighting is really cool.

[patterfr]

#1 and #4.
Nice job Kelly.

[k9ofkaos]

Originally Posted by Rain Lily

What's krippy?

Didn't you get the memo?

[transcape5]

Making up for lost Camel time, Kelly?
Excellent lighting. Looks very familiar. 1 & 4 are my faves as well.

[oldugly]

Okay, now you have done it. Not only do you have talent--you have a tall grass prairie close by. Excuse me while I go bang my head against the wall.

[sarae_61764]

These are absolutely beautiful!!! 1 & 3 are my favs. #3 leaves me in awe with how you captured it. Love the contrast and all sooo sharp!

[wolfden]

wow, these are excellent

[Johnny Perkka]

Originally Posted by KellyL

I try to make the meter read 2/3 underexposed on the sky...at least...and then set the flash to the proper f/stop on the camera. Works most of the time. Sometimes I get very frustrated because the images don't come out with the right light ratio.

Yeah, the ones we took on the field when you were here were a bit dark on the sky part... Maybe you wanted it like that, but I kinda wanted more light on it... Chasing the sun is a recurring theme for you, huh?

These look awesome (like a hot dog) though!

[Padre]

Lovely soft light and she is beautiful!

[felix.reichardt]

#1:
Very nice
+ great exposure on subject and background
+ sharpness and colors
0 pose, I think the image might look more balanced if the other arm was visible?

rest:
+ exposure of subject
0 I personally feel such dark backgrounds outdoors rather depressing but like I said just personal taste
- distracting grass around her face. IMHO does not work well if choosen for framing.

[peterst6906]

Originally Posted by Doug Johncox

I wish I had your talent.

Doug, if you want some of Kelly's talent, just go back through some of his threads over the last couple of years.

He's a modest guy with great talent, but an even greater determination to just get good at photography.

You too can develop the same eye and skill if you apply the same ethic that he has.

Regards,

Peter

[Benji]

Kelly,

I like 'em all except the third one. The main light should have been at camera left.

Ben

[jesus]

I like the first one the best.

[KellyL]

Okay...I tried to multi-quote, but obviously, I don't know how to do that....

Thanks all who stopped by.

From what I remember:

Thanks for stopping by.

Lowering the exposure makes the colors pop out more. If I expose for the sky, I lose the colors. Dropping the exposure is merely to make the background sky colors pop.

Thanks very much for the comments and the critiques.