u/raddestbtchalive

I posted a photo in another subreddit from a recent shoot. I usually lean towards flash photography but I want to learn different setups and I did a two-point diagonal lighting. The person I worked with also wanted an editorial look to their photos.

I received a few comments about my lighting not being to par in the subreddit. This is not the first time I've gotten comments on lighting and I'm honestly confused on where I went wrong.

I'd like to better my lighting especially since I want to do photography full time at some point.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to better my lighting?

I'm considering teaching myself motion graphics and I have been looking into different softwares. I have Apple Motion (that I got with Apple's student bundle in college) however I'm also considering Cavalry as well!

I have also heard of blender and a few other options.

Please feel free to let me know which would be a great option especially as a beginner. I'm also open to softwares that I have not listed.

I greatly appreciate the responses

Hi everyone!

I've been doing photography off and on since 2023 and this year my goal is to be consistent as well learning different skills that can help me improve.

I've been doing 2+ photoshoots per month this year however I feel like I'm in a stagnant place. I have in mind the kind of style I want to achieve but I feel like I'm not all the way there yet. I know comparing isn't good either but I see the work of photographers I admire and wish my work would provoke in others the feelings their work provokes in me.

I was wondering if anyone would like to offer any critique on my work. I've been told to work on composition and lighting so far however I'm open to anything that will benefit me and help me grow.

Due to the rules in this subreddit with self-promoting, I can send my portfolio/Instagram link to anyone who's interested in offering constructive criticism.

Thank you in advance and I look forward to hearing some feedback!

Hi everyone!

I have been doing portrait photography off and on between 2023-2025. This year I have been more consistent with it in hopes of turning it into a full time career in the future.

Because of my consistency and word of mouth, I have received inquiries for paid photoshoots which I am excited about.

However, I am also hesitant because based on the inquiry forms I've received, the potential clients want either grad photos taken or bright, warm tones for their ideal pictures.

As I continue to grow, I noticed I mainly strive towards a more moody, grungy look with my photos. I have taken photos outside of my preferred style and I also see other photographers execute both moody photos and bright, upbeat photos.

I also think about branding purposes as well and would prefer my portfolio to have that moody look to it. But I feel bad because I feel shallow for feeling a type of way about the desired outcome the clients would like since it's not tailored to my preference.

At the same time, I do want any potential client to be satisfied with any photos I take and making sure it fits their vision.

I know for a fact taking these photos will help me stay consistent and help me learn new things from these potential shoots but I'm not sure what to do.

With that being said, is it better to just stick to my photographic style or step outside of the box?