Many photographers spend a lot of time in selecting the right model, discussing her wardrobe, hairstyle, makeup, and what have you. Yet, they tend to overlook a very important aspect: the background. This is a vital part of any photographic setup and needs the proper attention. It can make or break the composition, feel, and […]
In each and every art form there is always a medium or a number of specific mediums related to that particular art. For sculpture it can be stone, glass, or wood, whereas for painting it can be color, metal, or paint applied to a hard medium. The one specific medium of photography is light. But […]
If you are the type of photographer, that like me, prefers to work outdoor rather then in a studio, the effort in choosing the right locations is quite challenging. Needless to say, the choice of location will determine the success of your photo shoot. I am laying out a few basic principals that one has […]
Lighting is one of the principal elements in portraiture. In order to produce quality photos it’s essential that you understand the very basics. An important aspect that you have to keep in mind is the direction of light. I would like to differentiate the types of light that a photographer can work with when shooting […]
Some of you might have already thought of some potential items that can be effectively used for photography. Indeed, when you look around you, at home, your office, the attic, you will notice many useful objects. But, one simple item that I have found very handy is a basic white bed sheet: It all happened […]
What I am supposed to wear for my photo shoot? This is a typical question you will be faced with when shooting portraits. In answering this question one has to establish what type of ‘look’ they’re trying to achieve before planning the actual clothing. In helping individuals to sort out their ideas I like to […]
A week ago I was invited to take part in a workshop titled, Lights and Shadows. Demo models were available and various photographers were shooting in a temporary set photographic studio. I could not help but notice impractical mistakes done repeatedly by some of the photographers present. This led me to write this article, in order to pin point three basic mistakes that you should avoid when shooting a model, in particular a female model. Before you start shooting a model, it is a very sensible to check that your model is excellent. You should check that makeup is to your liking, hair is set well, clothes are not creased, clothing labels are not visible, in short that your model is nothing less than perfect.
I have to admit it. I rejoice working with reflectors during my outdoor photo shoots. This is for the simple reason that it can be used in a number of different ways. It purely makes your photographic life much easier. Do you possess a reflector or maybe you are planning to buy one? Hereunder I have listed for you the basic advantages of working with a reflector when doing outdoor photo shoots. A reflector can be the best accessory you can carry with you during your photo shoots. Its uses are endless. To a certain extent I would prefer leaving an extra lens behind rather than a reflector. If like me, you like working with ambient light, I strongly suggest that next time you venture for your outdoor photo shoot you grab that reflector along.
Much of the attention in photo modelling is given to the way a model poses and dresses. Yet, little or no attention is given to facial expressions. Expressions will make or break a photo shoot. Photos will be soulless and tell nothing. It is suggested that every model has a couple of expressions, which she is good at, up her sleeve. That way it gives character and meaning to her photos. This article describes some of the very basic facial expressions, which which you should attempt to capture in order to have a full photo session. If you work closely with your model, it makes sense to work towards perfecting these expressions.
