Digital Photography Articles

Wednesday 27 January 2010

Digital Photo Tips - The Art of Photographing Women

Digital Photo Tips - The Art of Photographing Women

A quick glance around any museum will reveal an amazing number of images of the female figure. Women have been used in art throughout history. Today, women are the chief focus of photography used by the fashion industry and "glam" magazines, and they appear in newsstands by the thousands each week, where they are seen as brides, movie stars, homemakers and athletes.

So, how do photographers insure they are capturing women at their best? While a whole host of studio "tricks" and software "improvements" are used commercially, through some simple techniques and efforts the photography of women can be achieved with great results.

For example, those "glam" girl images that are becoming popular again can be achieved in a variety of ways. Black and white images of the popular World War II era "pin up" girls are achieved in well-lit studio settings.

It is important to remember that bright light can wash away dark circles under the eyes, the appearance of cellulite and even brighten a smile. While this may be the most simplified lighting scheme, some photographers examine studio photographs from the golden age of Hollywood and copy the dramatic lighting that was employed to great affect.

For example, a wash of light across the eyes of a black and white subject can deliver a great deal of glamour. Additionally, many photographers will apply filters to soften the appearance of the face or flesh of the subject.

Another form of glamour photography is the later "pin up" trend in color photography. The classic images were inspired by popular art, and features buxom ladies in "rockabilly" dress. These images also call for special lighting, and many photographers apply the effects desired in their software program and not the studio. It is important to remember that such photos are never intended to be crude, but instead should be alluring and always feminine.

Another highly feminine manner of photographing women is as brides. For many brides, their wedding day is a highly emotional event, and it may be challenging for a photographer to capture her at her best. One method commonly used by professionals is to review a list of required shots the bride would like taken, this way she will be able to compose herself during these moments.

Additionally, the photographer should examine the sight where the wedding service and reception are to be held to get a good understanding of the lighting required for the best photographs.

Photographing women in creative ways is a wonderful way to experiment in photography, or even earn a living. The images can be romantic or artistic, and should always seek to capture the subject in a flattering manner.

Take your photos to the next level! To learn more tips visit Digital Photo Tips

Sunday 17 January 2010

Your Boudoir Photo Session - What to Expect

Your Boudoir Photo Session - What to Expect

Knowing what to expect during your boudoir photography session will help you prepare yourself for the big day and put you at ease when you know that there's nothing to be nervous about. Boudoir studios prize themselves on bringing out the most beautiful side of their customers and by making them feel comfortable and beautiful during the shoot. It's called glamour photography for a reason, so one thing you should expect during your session is to look and feel glamorous.

Upon arriving at the studio you'll have an opportunity to go over the specifics of your session. You'll meet with the hair and make-up stylists and discuss exactly how you want to look. You'll also have a chance to go over your ensemble. If you have a set selection of outfits that you plan on wearing, that will make this easier.

If not, there's no reason to worry. Many studios have outfits on hand that you'll be able to select from. However, you should check with the particular studio you've decided on to make sure that this is the case. If they don't have stock outfits and you haven't been able to decide on what to wear, you may be asked to bring in a multitude of different options that the photographer will go over with you.

After your dress, hair and make-up have been decided, you'll also be able to review the studio that your session will take place in. You will probably have discussed this with the studio beforehand, but once you actually enter the room you'll be able to make any last-minute decisions or suggestions that you would like. Don't be afraid to let the photographer or the stylists know exactly what you want. These are your pictures. Make sure that you and your surroundings are exactly how you want them before you begin.

As you begin, you'll most likely find that you don't need to be a model to take boudoir photographs. If you've selected a specialized studio, the photographer will be an excellent coach and will be able to tell you how to pose, how to look, and what to do. During the session, an abundance of pictures will be taken to ensure that the final product is the absolute cream of the crop and that you look your most beautiful through your entire collection.

After the shoot is finished, you'll most likely have a chance to review the pictures that were taken. You'll be able to select from the pictures taken and make sure that your favorites end up in the final product. After you make your choices, these pictures will be digitally retouched and developed.

This will take a few weeks, and each studio varies, so pay close attention to delivery time when deciding on your studio. You don't want to have the photographs sent out two weeks after the event for which they were intended.

In the end, professional boudoir studios are concerned with what you want and how you want to look. You should expect to be catered to and made to feel at ease while you look your most elegant.

Craig Bennett is a freelance copywriter and former college instructor in Business Administration. For several years he was a professional freelance photographer.

You may learn more about the excitement of glamour photography and how to enjoy this art form either as a photographer or as the one being photographed at his blog:http://www.LearnSexyPhotography.com