My first attempt at low key

[slugsy]

Here is my first ever set of low key images, went to dunelm and bought some black material and hung it on the curtains, got the 430ex flash and gaffer taped it to a white umbrella, set a reflector on the far side to reduce the shadow across the face. Will post some others later once i have had time to tweek them.
Sarah001.jpg Jasmine001.jpg Sarah002.jpg Sarah004.jpg Sarah003smoothed.jpg
Manual mode F5.6 1/200 iso100, EF50 1:1.4 with -1.6 flash exp comp
Any advice/criticism would be appreciated to make my technique better!
Slugys
Edit Last 2 images are f7.1 1/200 iso100 and have had a smoothed layer mask at 50% over the skin area (not sure if i like this effect or not really)

[EmilyJohnson]

Re: My first attempt at low key

I actually prefer the last two images they've got an intimate and loving feel to them, I like the image of the little girl too. Can't comment on technique as I'm quite new into the world of photography ;-)

[DeeGee]

Re: My first attempt at low key

I think out of all of them number four is my fave. I'm another one who can't comment on technique.