Preparing For Portraiture + Self Reflection

In preparation for the photographing for my portraiture assignment, I have loaded into my camera Ilford HP5 Plus 400 speed film.  This is as I will be photographing in doors (inside buses) in possibly overcast, sun setting/night time conditions.  

I will shoot a roll of film with the aim to capture bus goers from behind and if possible with their reflection in the window - should they have a window seat.  With this idea I am wanting to explore what I can capture when public transport commuters have time to themselves. 

My series or portraits will hopefully convey an outsider sight into the world of another person - as I plan to capture them while they are unaware. 

I would also like to talk briefly about lighting and the advancements (or so I think) of my knowledge in this area.  The first is about key light and contrast.  

Here is  photo of my mum:

I really like the way the above photo has turned out.  The key light is coming from the left of frame (that left side is lit the best) and there are shadows on the right side of frame (her left side).  The light side is backed by a dark (wooden) background, while the shadowy side is backed by a bright light to contrast.  These slight contrasting details bring out the subject of the photo.  

NOTE: The scratches and irregularities are caused by the glass used to push down the negatives, not in the photo themselves - however it does give a nice effect.  

The picture below is also a nice use of contrast in black and white hues

The other thing I have realised is an important factor to photography is an eye light.  The picture below has a good use of an eye light which even though the picture is quite dark and not very well detailed brightness wise, it is still clear to what it is.  The eye light in her eyes also helps to bring some life to the subject and photo overall.  

Similar to this note is also this photo:

Use of shadow and contrast between surfaces of skin/wall worked out really nicely.  Though the subject doesn't have any kicker light, the back of his head is completely black, it still works really well as a photo especially because this is against white which helps bring it out more.  

I'll let you be the judge, but I have realised that light is probably the most important thing when composing shot.  Because without light - what's the use in having a subject?  Unless you are using longer shutter speeds.

See below for my contact sheet (Ilford HP5 Plus - 400 ISO Speed Film):