Smoke shoot with Don Chris.
20180628 555 Chris b.JPG
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Contest Finalist in Covers Photo Contest Volume7
People's Choice in Rule of Thirds Photo Contest vol8
Contest Finalist in Rule of Thirds Photo Contest vol8
Contest Finalist in Black And White Compositions Photo Contest Vol7
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Behind The Lens
Location
For this shoot I met with Chris in his home, this photo was taken in his living room. We covered the window in the background with a black backdrop.Time
We met in the early evening in summer. The ambient light was overpowered by the flashes.Lighting
I used two flashes: one right behind him to light up the smoke, another camera-right, a bit further away, with a softbox.Equipment
As so often, I used a Nikon D800 with an 85mm Nikkor lens. The flashes were two radio-triggered Jinbei HD600, one with a standard reflector, the other with a gritted softbox. A black backdrop covered the window behind Chris.Inspiration
Chris is an enthusiastic smoker and his face asks to be photographed - he liked the idea. I think he smoked three cigars for the shoot, I had a sore throat for the rest of the evening.Editing
I applied some minor corrections in post. Otherwise, the photo is mainly as shot.In my camera bag
My gear varies a lot; beach, underwater, studio... Having said that, I don't think gear matters so much for most shoots.Feedback
Have fun! Here, Chris was sitting close to the black backdrop - avoid spilling light on the backdrop if you want it dark. Don't drink too much of the whiskey you may be offered...