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

Wednesday 16 December 2009

Where to Learn Modeling Poses to Use For Photography Shoots

Where to Learn Modeling Poses to Use For Photography Shoots

If you are a model or aspiring to be one, you know the importance of posing for pictures. When you look through fashion or glamour magazines you often see women wearing swimsuits and think that this is the only type of modeling there is.

The truth of the matter is, there are many types of models, super young and super mature, male and female and, to be successful in the modeling world it is important to know the many different poses and expressions to give your photographer so that you can continue to book jobs, after you finish a photo shoot.

Photographers love models who are multi-faceted and that can produce many different poses in a photo shoot.If you are not sure of all the different positions and attitudes that a photographer may want, it may be necessary to take a modeling class so that you learn at least the bare minimum of how to pose for the camera.

Females and Males

There are classes that are solely for the female model. However, if you are a male who wants to get into modeling, there are courses that you can study as well. When taking these classes make sure that you not only listen to the person instructing the class, but to the other models in the class with you. They may have tips to share that they have picked up from working with certain photographers.

Although the modeling industry appears cut-throat, those who work in it want to help others succeed as well. By sharing with each other some of the photography modeling pose ideas, you can further your career, as well as the careers of others.

Teenagers

If you are one of the many teenage models out there wanting to get into the field, taking a modeling or acting class is a must. In this formal setting, not only will you learn about the industry, but you will also learn the modeling poses you need when working for professional photographers that most often get booked for campaigns.

By taking classes and getting advice, you can take advantage of the knowledge that you need to have a long lasting career.

Once you start knowing how to pose, you can give your all to the photographer instead of grasping for ideas. Then you will be in a position to book more modeling jobs and have a lucrative career as a glamour, fashion or maybe even a top list runway model. Good luck!

Wednesday 9 December 2009

Your Boudoir Photo Shoot - Deciding What to Wear

Your Boudoir Photo Shoot - Deciding What to Wear

The first question that may leap to mind after a woman has decided to have boudoir photographs taken of herself may be: What do I wear? There are a lot of options and a lot of variety available, and picking the right outfits is essential to producing the desired final product. Some studios suggest bringing in three different outfits for the shoot.

Others have stock clothing on hand that you can choose from before the pictures are taken. What's important to keep in mind is that glamour photography is all about you. This is about what you want, what you like, and what you want to see yourself in. Here are some suggestions that may be helpful when it comes time to select your final ensemble.

Lingerie is a very popular choice for a boudoir shoot. It is important, while trying to be as beautiful and confident as possible, that you feel beautiful and confident. Your favorite lingerie (or your significant other's favorite) is an excellent choice when preparing for a boudoir session. Corsets, bra and brief sets, and thigh-high hosiery are recommended. Be sure to bring clothing that not only makes you look good, but makes you feel good, too.

Heels are also an important consideration when it comes to dress. Just because this is boudoir (bedroom) photography doesn't necessarily mean you'll be lying down the entire time. A pair of high heels or knee-high boots will definitely have an added effect.

Beyond the realm of traditional, provocative clothing, many studios make other suggestions to bring the photographs "home," so to speak. The clothing of your significant other is recommended in most cases. Some studios highly encourage wearing sports jerseys to please the sports lover, specifically a men's size jersey of the favorite team.

Studios also encourage wearing a men's dress shirt, maybe even complete with a tie for an extra touch. If your significant other doesn't fall into either of these categories, then this suggestion need only be modified. Wear a favorite shirt instead, or something that is significant between the two of you. This will help tie the gift of boudoir photography to both of you.

Something else to consider is what type of bottoms you're going to be wearing. Thongs are a classic choice, but so are panties. Depending on how little or how much you want to reveal, this choice will be totally up to you, as will all the other choices concerning your boudoir photography session.

Nighties are also a suggested article of clothing. Nighties are versatile dress, and can be as revealing or modest as you would like. If you're not excited about the idea of lingerie and high heels, something more elegant may be the right choice for you.

The clothing that you wear during boudoir photography is very important because it will, more than many other things, affect the final outcome of your photographs. If you're still not sure, the professionals at the studio will be more than glad to help, and some even invite you to bring in all of your options so you can go over them together. Just remember, in the end, it's all about what you want.

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.LearnBoudoirPhotography.com


Monday 30 November 2009

Glamour Model Posing Tips From a Photographers Standpoint

Glamour Model Posing Tips From a Photographers Standpoint

When it comes to modeling, there are almost as many potential photographers as there are potential models. While many people understand that there are serious demands placed on any man or woman that wishes to be a model, few people understand all that goes into being the professional that snap the pictures.

Of course there is undoubtedly going to be a huge expense in the accumulation of the proper photography equipment like high end digital cameras, meters, lighting for the studio and even advertising to promote the new business.

However, all the top dollar gear in the world will not help one to become a true professional photographer.

This genre takes on many forms from portfolios for modeling to romantic portraits ( also known as boudoir ) for females to give husbands as gifts. But, no matter what type photos, a photographer will need to offer glamour model posing tips during a shoot, and this is something that simply does not usually come naturally.

It must be acquired, and it can be if you know what to do.One of the best ways to gain some practical experience is to pay attention to facial expressions that you see on a daily basis. Since more than one facial feature can make up a good pose, you will need to be aware of the entire face and the movements it makes, from the eyes, nose, mouth and other regions of the face. This will help you to give good and reliable pose ideas when shooting.

Another good way to gain experience is to look at magazines. Looking at what established models and photographers do and how the pictures come out is a great way to get an idea or two when it comes to model posing techniques. Once again, it is important that you pay close attention to facial expressions as well as body poses.

This will also help you to understand a little better what the model will need to do when creating the photographs and will help you to hand out advice which is useful and that gets results.When it comes to male or female modeling photography, the person in front of the camera will look to you for direction, and if you are not prepared to give them the proper looks, the photos you take will not fair very well.

Simply because you lack experience does not mean that you cannot offer valuable and professional glamour model posing tips on your photo sessions. By being observant, you can make it through your first few shoots and you can gain the experience that is so important in this business.

A final thought is of course, practice. There is no substitute to practicing your craft until you are comfortable. Shoot with some fashion or glamour models who are willing to be "experiments" in exchange for free pictures for their portfolio books. You will get better and will learn something new with each session. Do this before advertising for paid sessions.

Once you have a few photography shoots under your belt, giving appealing posing tips to the models you shoot and making the photos you create reach their highest potential will become second nature.