still photography lighting techniques

still photography lighting techniques

I don’t think that it’s any secret that the female form or body has been attractive to men for many, many moons. Sexual attraction may be the first thing to come to mind, however the female form is something of a wonder and to many an artist and beholder in general. There are many different forms of artwork paying homage to women including Whistlers Mother, Mona Lisa etc. Today of course we can also achieve greatness in art from the still camera.

Female form photography explained -

Female form photography is almost as it suggests. It is the capturing of the female form image while she poses for photographic purposes. There are many competent photographers today with established photography businesses specializing in different modes of female form photography. These modes include both commercial and artistic strands, often both in one.

Why female form photography?

As indicated earlier, female photography is an evergreen topic of interest for men mostly. But just why is it so popular even after so many centuries?? By now, it seems almost all poses and art expressions of a woman have been captured by the camera. However, it is still in vogue! These are the probable reasons for the sustenance of the female form photography:

- A woman’s body has been a symbol of reverence for men. A woman has always stood for beauty, truth and purity beyond the reach of men. Capturing those delicate moments in a single expression creates ripples in the photography market.

- The next obvious reason for the added interest is the physical attraction that men have for women. Female anatomy photography is a definite yes for them.

- Last but not least is money. Female photography fetches lots of money. Photographers have been known to become wealthy quickly in this arena. As a result, female nude photographs are always in demand.

However, no matter what the reasons are for the photographer, it is the ultimate affect the photograph captures that is important.

Some female form photography tips

Clothes on or no clothes, females have always been a favorite subject of photography. However, it takes talent and perseverance to get the exact expression that would make your photos world famous. If you need some tips about female form photography, then given below are few start ups that would hopefully help you along.

- Find the right model for your photograph!

Getting a subject for your photograph is a tough job for any photographer – especially if your aim is to take intimate photographs. However, if it is simply facial expressions that matter, then even your mother, daughter, wife or sister would do. It is the expression you want right? I’m sure it would be apparent, that if it involves some degree of nudity, then it is better you hire a professional model who would be more comfortable posing.

- Background for stills

The background needs special attention when it comes to photographing female forms. Viewers usually relate better to a serene setting that matches her delicate lines. Usually, the studio is the best place to do the shoot as you can adjust your settings and be in control of lighting. If outdoor shooting is your interest, then you’ll need to be prepared with equipment for highlighting contrasts etc. Hint: A darker background gives better clarity to the female form.

- Lights, Camera, and click….

The lighting is of paramount vitality if you want your images to be perfect. It is always better to have the lighting focused on the female either from behind or the sides. Directly on the face would have two disadvantages; the light on the face would not capture the perfect expression which angled lighting or background lighting would provide. Moreover, light on the face would make any one uncomfortable and promote squinting!

- Keep your distance!

When you are shooting your model, make sure you are away from her!! Use a variety of lenses. Avoid moving in too close when you are capturing the most detailed moments of her face, keeping some distance will help immensely. It would make her feel comfortable and result in better and more diversified expressions.

Female photography gives you immense scope to show off the talent that you have as a photographer. Well, they say “There is a woman behind every man’s success”. This cliché can’t be more appropriate than in this sector of photography!!

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should you learn still photography before learning cinematography?

Is it a tradition to learn basics of still photography to better understand lighting and composition before learning the techniques and principles involved with cinematography?

I haven’t studied either one. I might want to dabble a little in still photography, but I am mainly interested in film/video. If there is an advantage to studying photography in-depth, then I would be happy to do it. I might just do it anyway if I find it rewarding.

In case you’re curious, I have dabbled in graphic art and have a strong background in music, so I tend to feel at home in any creative media and arts activities.

It’s probably best to start in stills, but honestly, I never really learned photography before I went to film school and I picked up cinematography really quick. I’ve been a working cinematographer for about 4 years (mostly shorts and industrials) and teach cinematography part time- still don’t know a ton about still photography.
The main concepts in still photography that will help you are learning how to expose properly, the zone system, and good composition. Film work throws all sorts of new stuff at you, such as lighting for movement, rack focusing, camera movement, etc.
Good cinematography is all about the lighting, so study that. Study electricity and cables so you know how to light in a practical manner. And just get on set.