Need your opinion about a photo reference.
 

Hi all:

For the first time, I wanted to be sure to have a good photo reference for my next portrait. So, I decided to take this photo with my digital camera of a couple of friends.

But the truth is I find it too dark.

Your opinion is important. Thanks for your attention.

Regards from Portugal,
Rui

I would agree with you that the reference photo is too dark. I also like to call your attention to the lop-sided composition of the couple and to the huge fold of the man's shirt.

I read some place that William Bouguereau went through great lengths to pose his models, making sure that nothing was left to coincidence, before ever starting to paint. Others went through great pains to make sure that the folds of garments were just right, often even with the aid of pins to hold the fabric in place.

Nothing was left to chance and I would say that is why their work is timeless. If you think in the same manner you soon will see all the things that could be better.

Rui, see attached:

Sorry, I forgot to flatten the image!

Thank you for your comments, Elizabeth and Enzie!

But, Elizabeth, I coudn't get your attachment, just got a red

Rui,

You would get better results on the shadow side if you use a reflector.

This can be a piece of white foam board strapped, clamped, or mitered to a chair. I have in my bag of tricks a sun blocker that people place on the dash board of their car. In the states we would find them at an auto parts store or even at some grocery stores where I got mine. One side is white the other is silver. It rolls up and is very light weight. It works fine if you have another person to hold it, otherwise you're back to whatever you can devise.

You may also try a shadow-side soft light bulb that you could clamp to a chair or stand. As far as the type, wattage, color etc., I'm not much good at that stuff.

These are just the simplest of measures, however, they can help your cause with minimal expense.

You may also find it helpful to read through Will Enns Husband/wife compositon thread in the composition section.

Rui,

Your lens has picked up a glare, which is distorting the girl's face.

Hi again!

So much information and details to study! :)

I will consider all your opinions and will post my progresses in Oils.

Thank you all for your time.

Rui.