Self Family Portrait

  This was a self family portrait we did the other day as a Christmas present for grandparents.

The photo was taken in our studio using a 3 light set-up.  The key light was CR positioned 40-45 degrees, with a gridded medium soft-box.  The fill light was CL positioned 45 degrees and low, with a medium soft-box.  The fill light was one stop less than the main light.  The third light, was a gridded strobe used as a 'hair light', CR positioned behind us, being one stop brighter than the key light.

  The camera and lights were all tripped with pocket wizards.  The photo was taken in a low-key style on a black background, with intentions for a black and white portrait.

  When taking 'self-portraits', is always more difficult than having someone else take your portrait.  Here are a few good tips on shooting a self portrait. 

 1) If you do not own pocket wizards or radio transmitters, you can use your self timer that comes on all cameras.

 2) Use a tri-pod, set your camera on a tri-pod in the position that you are going to shoot from, and compose your shot.

 3) Pre-focus on your subjects, then switch your lens to manual focus, so that focus will not change through out.

 4) Last but not least, take LOTS of shots. You are bound to get one or two that are good.

  We hope you find these tips helpful when shooting self-portraits. Any questions or comments are welcomed and appreciated!  *Sincerely; Rob & Leiann