My first nude photo session tomorrow.

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

11/17/2007 09:56:55 PM · #1

Was wondering if anybody could give me any suggestions on shooting artistic nude photographs. I am wondering if anybody has any unique idea's or lighitng set-up's that they would like to share with their nude photography. I am hoping my client will be comfortable in front of the camera. That can make or break a photo session in my opinion. Thanks.

idnic

Canon EOS-60D

11/17/2007 10:02:28 PM · #2

As for making your client comfortable - that's your job. Start out slowly, don't just walk in & say lets go... talk a lot... tell her what your shooting, why, why you moved your light or why she should pose a certain way.

As for posing, google - look at things you think you can achieve (lighting, space, etc) and try to emulate they styles you like. That's the best way to learn what works without trying every single thing that doesn't.

Nudes typically look best in subtle light, not bright shopping mall-type lighting. Spend some time preparing for your shoot and it will go much better. Be sure to have props on hand - fabric, blankets, whatever. Plan the session, then shoot the plan. :)

Spork99

OM System OM-1

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro

11/17/2007 10:13:00 PM · #3

Ask them not to wear underwear or any other elastic or tight clothing since it can make impressions in the skin that will take 45 min or so to go away.

Make sure you explain the why or they'll think you're just a pervert.

violinist123

Canon EOS-6D

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM

11/17/2007 10:34:52 PM · #4

Or say nothing and let them sit naked for 45 minutes. All roads lead to the same destination.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

11/17/2007 10:40:54 PM · #5

My simplest word of advice (and do listen to Spaz about the undies) is this:

Go with a single light source for your first nude shoot. It looks more "artsy" to the model when you are done and gives you a better understanding of how light falls on the curves and contours of the body.

Dirt_Diver

Nikon D3s

11/17/2007 11:09:48 PM · #6

If you're model is going to be naked make sure that you're heat is on. Being cold could make them unhappy and start to feel uncomfortable. Good luck with you're shoot.

11/17/2007 11:15:16 PM · #7

Originally posted by Lowcivicman99:

If you're model is going to be naked make sure that you're heat is on. Being cold could make them unhappy and start to feel uncomfortable. Good luck with you're shoot.

Not to mention that goose bumps are a m-effer to photoshop out.

11/18/2007 01:30:59 AM · #8

As for making your client comfortable - that's your job. Start out slowly, don't just walk in & say lets go... talk a lot... tell her what your shooting, why, why you moved your light or why she should pose a certain way.

As for posing, google - look at things you think you can achieve (lighting, space, etc) and try to emulate they styles you like. That's the best way to learn what works without trying every single thing that doesn't.

I agree....it is my job to make her comfortable. We had a pre-session meeting about what she is looking for and we created sort of a "game plan" for the shoot. I am looking forward to shooting her...she is a beautiful young woman with a great body. Thanks for all of the suggestions. Goosebumps would be a pain....but I would LOVE to shoot it outside. We will see if I can actrually pull that off. (no pun intended)

DrAchoo

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5

11/18/2007 01:37:11 AM · #9

Good luck. I know you can do it. You certainly know your way around lighting, although outside will be less controllable. I'm not sure the weather will be quite cooperative tomorrow.

Hope to hear how it goes on Monday.

11/18/2007 02:23:20 AM · #10

Biggest thing is to relax YOURSELF. If you are uncomfortable, it's hard to get the model to be comfy. But, don't worry, even if you are both stiff as boards at the beginning, things tend to relax as the shoot progresses.

11/18/2007 02:28:26 AM · #11

Good luck. I know you can do it. You certainly know your way around lighting, although outside will be less controllable. I'm not sure the weather will be quite cooperative tomorrow.

Thanks.......I am hoping it is just not freezing....rain might add a unique element to the image. Really we have a very "open" game plan.

11/20/2007 01:08:32 AM · #12

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From the session I had on Sunday. A great model to work with. She was very comfortable in front of the camera. I was a bit worried she was going to be uncomfortable and stiff, but it was quite the contrary.