Suggetions for Twin Portraits

[April Phillips]

I'm always amazed at how this online group can come up with solutions to problems I didn't know I had (until they are pointed out, at which point they become glaring.) So I want to run these reference photos by you guys with a few questions.

I'm doing two 16x20" oil paintings of my 7 year old twin boys. They will be hung side by side. I will use them as samples in hopes of getting other commissions.

#1 The first problem that I see is the differences in color and exposure that needs to be even out. I shot these (several tries) inside against a window in the evening, about 10 minutes apart, and in that time the sun changed dramatically. I've already adjusted the color in photoshop to get it to match better. I think this should be doable.

#2 Should I fake greenery in the bkg and if not, should i give each a different background color? I realize this is subjective.

#3 Tommy (yellow shirt) is tilted backward. Should i try to correct that (as shown in photo 3)?

#4 I wish I had buttoned up their shirts more so there was less neck. Does that bother anybody and would it be worth trying to fix?

If you have the time, help is much appreciated.

[Claudemir Bonfim]

I like the necks; I don't think you should change the clothing.

In my opinion you would solve most of your problems by working from life; the poses would look more natural. Try using a chair or armchair, this would help your kids get a comfortable position.

Good luck.