David and I went to photograph the netball championships which, I have to say is hard work. Indoors and noisy, and you need really good equipment. My 350D and 70-200mm IS f4 L series lens is excellent, but not good enough for low-light indoor sports. F2.8 is essential, and the 350D auto focus is not up to the job. For me it's just play, but David is doing this as a business, so he has the right gear.

Anyway, one parent asked us to do a portrait of her very cute, small daughter, so we rushed outside, and this is the result. Pointing towards the sun, with a remote-triggered flash, and a reflector screen. I'm reasonably pleased, but the flash is too harsh, so I reckon we could've used the reflector better. Needs to be more diffuse, and more from the front.

More practice required! Your constructive tips welcome.

I haven't heard, but I hope Mum is happy with the result.
.................
Postscript: thanks to Makaid for your intelligent comments. Posted are two version of edits.
The first with your suggestions, which were excellent. In the third I've done a bit of a dodgy to brighten the left side of her face. This looks okay in small format, but unfortunately won't be any good enlarged. The answer of course is, get the light right when you take the photo!

PPS, the way we run this operation means we don't usually have time for anything but the simplest edits because we sell the shots on the day.

PPPS, the family bought 6 prints.

great portrat and so beautiful , i am sure that your mum will be happy with this nice result sina86re · 2008-06-29: 07:55

Hello my friend. It is great to have time to visit your blog again. In terms of costructive criticism, I do have a few points. I would have cropped out or cloned out the light in the bottom right hand corner. Also, there is a dust spec on your sensor that should be cloned as well in the top right. I would have also changed the direction of the flash (as you know). The only other thing that I notie here is the lens flare which is probably do to your position to the flash and the sun (mostly flash). I would have backed up the flash away from your subject if it was going to be at that angle. This may have helped with the harshness of the light as well. Otherwise, this is an aesome portrait! I love the angle and the composition I like how you chose to put the hoop in the shot. The smile on the girls face is also perfect. makaid · 2008-06-29: 22:33

The goal post looks so high! Love the angle :-) jet28 · 2008-06-30: 03:55

The first one was probably fine for the given situation and lack of time. I am happy you sold some prints! That is awesome. I haven't made any money yet. :( lol makaid · 2008-06-30: 15:48

Not only was Mum pleased but so was Grandma! In all they bought six images of this young lass! Well done losalamos666 · 2008-07-02: 01:27