jdubu Loc: San Jose, CA

I am an architectural photographer, but last year did a quick session for my niece starting her new business.

Looking back on it, I know the rim light is too low, more CC is good.

CaptainC Loc: Colorado, south of Denver

Well...you're right.

jonsommer Loc: Usually, somewhere on the U.S. west coast.

I also think that the main light camera right is too far back, if it had been moved forward, I think the shadows cast would give her face more shape. Additionally, I think the fill light is not bright enough, even though there aren't any unwanted shadows, like under her nose, the fill light doesn't help, either, with giving the head and face the light variations that help define the shape of her features. If it I had taken this portrait, I would also whiten her teeth as they look too yellow and brighten the whites of her eyes, as well.

bkyser Loc: Fly over country in Indiana

Hi, Thanks for posting. I do have some suggestions that you can take as a starting point. Your main light is beyond broad lighting, into...??? I don't know what you would call it. All attention is taken away from the face and concentrated on her hair (yes, too low) and her ear and back? Check out tutorials on short lighting on Youtube. She's a pretty girl with a nice expression, but unfortunately, none of the attention in the photo is drawn there. Good luck, and keep practicing.

jdubu Loc: San Jose, CA

Thank you for the input. I really have a lot to learn about lighting placement, that is why I shied away from people photography. Going forward, I am glad this section has the expertise and willingness to share.

The main light source was a store window and as I recall, there was one speedlight available to me at that time. Used it as rim light and into a reflector camera left. Not the setup I should have used, I know now. Everything set too low and reflector too flat to the face angle. Thanks