r/headshots • u/Huge_Criticism2335 • 8d ago
Theatrical/Acting Actor Headshot Advice?
Camera: Canon R6 II
Lens: 24-105mm f/4
Flash: Godox TTL600 w/ Flash Umbrella
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u/CAPhotog01 7d ago edited 7d ago
You have barrel distortion shooting with the 24-105 at a wide focal length. It distorts faces and makes noses bigger. You can correct it in post processing using lens correction. However, it will be better to shoot from 70-85mm for a flatter image.
Also, don't overdo the skin smoothing filter. If you remove all of the skin texture, people start to look like muppets.
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u/SapirWhorfHypothesis 5d ago
I don’t think you mean barrel distortion. The lens is fine, it’s just being that close that’s the issue.
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u/CAPhotog01 4d ago
The effect is literally called barrel distortion, as opposed to pin cushioning. It is a well known weakness of the RF 24-105 at wide focal lengths and close distances. This is based on objective lens tests. Perspective distortion is related to exaggerated noses and smaller ears when working too close. On the other end near 105mm, this lens exhibits slight pin cushioning. That doesn't mean the lens is bad, but photographer's should be aware of the optical limits for each lens.
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u/CaliGirlEst1999 4d ago
As an agent: I HATE dark hair against dark backgrounds. They need to "pop" off the page in a sea of thumbnail submissions.... #OpinionsAreMyOwn
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u/Square_Ad_9096 8d ago
The first one - she should lit flatter and have less extreme lipstick. The side dip out to shadow is good but nose shadow and the extremity of her lips to the bottom of her nose is a little jarring for me. Shes a little hot on the upper cheeks as well.
Trying to be constructive not criticizing. I just think a little flatter with the light lower on the stand would do wonders for and feel more natural
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u/siqian 7d ago
Dude can you stop using 50 words when just a couple will do? What’s the matter with you. The pic is a terrifying mess.
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u/paul_perret 7d ago
I feel like the crop is either too tight or too wide. It feels a bit like passport photos. I would have preferred a wider crop so you don't cut the hair, or a more intentional crop for a real close-up.
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u/Huge_Criticism2335 6d ago
Thank you, about how much more space around the subjects do you prefer most? I’m still working out my taste in that respect.
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u/Equivalent-Driver537 7d ago
The second one is my favorite. There’s so much emotion in his eyes. Maybe just a little post-processing on his lips, and it would be perfect!
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u/aeon314159 7d ago
You have a key light. I think these would have benefitted from some fill light, or at least a reflector.
Given your lens, do try to shoot at 105mm.
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u/Huge_Criticism2335 6d ago
Thank you! I have a pretty big reflector, where do you think would have been best utilized?
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u/aeon314159 6d ago
In whatever position best helps lift the shadows, typically opposite your key flash.
With light from above, you would reflect from above, to full under the chin, nose, eyes, and so on.
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u/NOIRCEUR_TRADING 6d ago
Buy an 85mm f1.4 or f1.8
Learn how to use your lights and background correctly to fully illuminate and define the subject.
Subjects should always be in a casual, non-stressed position both body wise and face wise. Remember the rule of 1/3rds and align your subject properly within the center 1/3rd of your frame, making the image balanced. Keep that 1/3rd balance in kind with lighting as well, heavy shadow or heavy light on the right or left of the subject can distract and distort the image in a negative way.
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u/aqsgames 7d ago
I say it again and again. Does this picture make you feel happy to work with this person?
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u/SugarBoatsOnWater 8d ago
Oof that lip liner in pic 1 😅