What I Learned Today - DPChallenge Forums

Canon EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 IS USM

02/12/2012 11:31:26 PM · #1

I was "hired" this week by the very enterprising, talented, and truly lovely Amanda Callas who has a fashion blog. I was brought to her attention by the very talented Sugano, the make-up artist (MUA) I used for the Great Dames shoot. I wasn't keen on doing another TFP shoot, but told her if we shot at my place, I would do it. As I'm looking to try more editorial/commercial images anyway, getting an opportunity to shoot anything I've never done before is like Photography University - for free.

Amanda did all the work, including securing another model (she would be modeling herself, as well), and three MUAs getting the clothing, the jewelry, etc. My job was to set up the lights and shoot. We shot six different looks (three per model), with variations of the same lighting (3 light set-up). The shoot lasted 4.5 hours. I know I got at least one killer image of each look.

So what did I learn at the end of the day, and was it worth the "price". In a word: absolutely.

1. trust my eye. At the very end, while trying to figure out why a particular shot was not working very well, I realized that the make-up was much too red on the model's face. I had noticed this while the make-up was being applied, but didn't think to say anything. The lesson: if it looks wrong, say something. It's my shoot.

2. set etiquette limits. One of the MUA kept taking pictures of one of the models on the set, under my lights. Yes, yes, I know. VERBOTEN!!!! However, I understand he's trying to fill his port (as am I), and would have let it go at a shot or two. But he took about half a dozen in a row, several times, while I actually waited for him to finish. It was not very cool, but I kept my cool, although I did mention it to Amanda after everyone had left. The lesson: set rules up front, no on-set photos, everyone gets a copy of the final when it's, well, FINAL. Oh, and it's MY shoot.

3. Let the pros do what they're there for. Sometimes I'd be taking a close up, where I was an arm's length from the model, and through my viewfinder could see an errant lock of hair. More than once I just reached out and fixed it, only to realize after the fact that the proper thing to do was to call for the MUA to take care of it. The crew is there to help me, not the other way around. The lesson: yes, it's easier to "do it myself", but you've got to let people do what they've been hired to do. Even if it's my shoot.

4. I can be friendly, but we're not "friends". I have a tendency to make everyone feel like they're my best friend. Even people working for me. It is my nature to try to find common ground with everyone I meet. This makes for a very relaxed, creative, collaborative shoot, which is my preference. The down side is that employees feel like they can do whatever they want (like take pictures on the set with their iPhone...) The lesson: friendly is good but make sure the boundaries are clear. Because after all...

it's MY shoot :-)

ScooterMcNutty

Canon EOS-5D

02/12/2012 11:44:06 PM · #2

Thank you for the post johanna :) It was very informative. I've got to realize this myself and put it in practice. When i have ideas for shoots, and they actually happen (which is hardly ever) I need to make sure that my ideas are met. Like specific make/hair/wardrobe. because, like you said, its my shoot ;P

littlemav

Nikon D90

Nikon AF-S Zoom-Nikkor 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED VR

02/12/2012 11:45:04 PM · #3

You go girl... it's so hard to not give into that. "Oh I don't want to hurt their feelings!"

posthumous

Canon EOS-40D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II

02/12/2012 11:49:44 PM · #4

the hard lesson of professionalism: I am going to treat you with more respect than I treat my friends, but we are NOT friends.

snaffles

Nikon D7100

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II

02/12/2012 11:58:18 PM · #5

Attagirl Johanna! I must print out and keep a copy of your original post.

bergiekat

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV

Canon EF 24-70 2.8L II

02/12/2012 11:58:37 PM · #6

Johanna, you have enlightened me! Should I ever get up the nerve to shoot with models (but, that would entail having friends and contacts for the hair/makeup, wardrobe..etc.) and I hope I do, I will remember your words of wisdom. Great share!!

Canon EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 IS USM

02/13/2012 12:23:18 AM · #7

When it comes to shooting with models, I often hear "I don't know anybody". Granted, I was in "show biz" for a long time and know lots of actors etc. who would be delighted for me to practice my photography skills on them. But you do not personally need to know models!!!!

For anyone wanting to work with models, whether to start their business or to get subjects for challenges, there are MANY ways to find subjects. The most important thing is that you decide to find them. Although I have had both excellent and less excellent success with Model Mayhem, this is an international resource which puts an enormous pool of talent at your disposal almost anywhere in the world - MUAs, stylists, models, etc. etc. are all on there. Also look into local theater companies, Craig's list, your-neighbor-who-has-a-niece-who's-boyfriend-wants-to-act-and-needs-headshots... Ask your church/temple/boy scouts group/crocheting club/bowling league if they they want you to take pictures at their next function. Etc. Use your imagination.

Models are EVERYWHERE. But they're not going to model for you if you don't ask.

ETA - I did not start out with "contacts" in anything. I did all the styling, shopping, etc. MYSELF. Learn to do EVERYTHING and you'll know what you can expect from pros.

Message edited by author 2012-02-13 00:24:21.

ScooterMcNutty

Canon EOS-5D

02/13/2012 12:40:20 AM · #8

did you have a full time job, or just a regular paying job, when you started getting serious with photography and models?

Konica Minolta MF 85mm f/1.7

02/13/2012 01:17:56 AM · #9

I have a slightly more than part time job, which I still do, while making the transition, Sofia.

briantammy

Olympus PEN E-P3

02/13/2012 01:24:06 AM · #10

thanks for sharing this information about your experiences. i'm sure it will inspire others as it does me. i have much to learn and you always have something help. you may not realize your strengths but people/social skills seem to be more important than knowledge of photography when it comes to shooting people and you seem blessed in this area. I really don't know you at all or where you've come from or how hard you have worked to get where you are but please don't stop sharing what you know and being helpful as you always are. thanks.

oh, will we get to see some of the shots from this session?