Hey Brian,

I would like to know more about your set-up. I like the reflections - but I agree that you need to be thoughtful about when it is appropriate.

Cheers
James

Hey James

My setup consists of 2 800 Alien Bee's. The puppy was placed about 5 feet from the backround and about 3 feet from the camera. I had a large softbox on the right, right beside the pup. I also had an umbrella just to the left of the camera. Here is another shot that I did the next day.

Very impressive shots!. How did you get the reflections? Is it plexiglas on the table? The kitty is beautiful, too.

Thanks for sharing.

Earline

Hello earline

Thank you for the comment, and yes it is just plexiglass.

Love the cat photo!!

I think the exposure is good. I would like to see more light on the backgroud, to make it white. Why are you shooting so close to the subject? Just curious?

Hello Finalshot
There are two reasons the backround is not white. First, I like the look of the backround being a slightly different shade, I think it adds more depth. Second, I only have two lights right now and I like using them for main and fill ( not much luck using reflector for fill ). And the reason that I am shooting so close is because I am working by my self and I have to stay close to the pup to get him to stay.
Now it is my turn to ask you some questions, Ha Ha. I have tried both backround methods (blown out and the way I have shown you here ). I have to say, most people liked the backround of the photos that I posted here. Should I listen to the buying public or should I stick to the "photography rules"

You should do what makes you happy and what youre clients will pay for. BUT, you likely wont gennerate a new following unless you do somthing radical or somthing that is proven. That takes practice, and a lot of it.

I'll bet if you were to put some of those shots out as hi-key they would gennerate additional interest. There's a reason there are basics, not because they are the "best" but because they work. Usually, the "best" stuff in my opinion slightly breaks the rules. In your case, while I understand your purpose, and your point, I believe I rather see hi-key than an under exposed background. My preference is for a completely white background and offset poses with appealing angles.

Keep shooting, the more you photography, the more you know what can and can not be photographed. . . elliot porter