Ring light, lens hood, studio models (18+)

The first three are shot without the lens hood.  Out of entire 50 some shots, I really don't have one I really like.  There is no contrast and most of them are not sharp. 

The second group are done with exactly the same equipment - D700 and Nikkor 85mm 1.4G, same lighting, except I used a lens hood.  Much better results - colorful, contrast, and sharp.

Also, we started to play with different use of ring lights.  In the first group, the bottom one was placed too close to the model - generating a hot spot.  We are doing a lot better this time.  For next round, I am going to drop my exposure so only a selective area of the model will be captured. 

All comments and suggestions are welcome.  I think I am getting a feel now.

1)first round

 

2)first round

 

3)first round

4) second round

5) second round

6) second round

7) second round