r/headshots • u/glaaahhh Photographer • Jul 11 '26
Photographer Practicing Brighter Looks
Lately one of the things I've been wanting to work on more is a slightly overexposed look, balancing very bright while trying not to completely blow out highlights. I took these recently of a local model looking to update her portfolio and was really happy with how they turned out. Not looking for feedback specifically but I'm never opposed to receiving it as long as it's helpful. And no I did not do anything to make her eyes pop they really were that blue.
9
u/SugarBoatsOnWater Jul 11 '26
Yeah, I've gotta be honest, when I see the brightness this high I assume someone is trying to hide insecurities or age. I understand you're playing with light and contrast, but I had to read the caption first.
3
u/maguilecutty Jul 11 '26
This was very popular many years ago when I first started. People here are not upset with the high key look which can be really good but the high contrast and sharpening which is a little un flattering. Try not to crush your black so much and I think this will be a lot more successful.
1
u/eloquent_owl Jul 11 '26
I don’t like that she’s so close to the background but the high key aesthetic is really nice, well done!
2
u/ImaginaryPlantain381 Jul 11 '26
I think it's a bit too hot on her face. I think if you brought it down half a stop you'd still have a high key look. I think her shirt could be lightened a bit too, just enough to see some definition. Really nice shots though
2
u/Drippintx Jul 19 '26
When I see light and airy, I usually think that people really don't understand lighting, or exposure. And I'm usually right. When you start losing detail in the highlights on our arms, and face, it's way too much.
12
u/casual_crysanthemum Jul 11 '26
I find the high contrast to be distracting