The aim in this shoot was to capture a sense of naturalism.
Really it is about putting the viewer in the position of voyeur – and its that voyeuristic element which adds the glamour and sensuality to the images.
Lighting Diagram
The lighting is from a window high to the right hand side – completely natural with a high ISO. Grain has been emphasised in post processing.
As the model moves from the window, contrast reduces, closer to the light the contrast will increase.
This type of image also requires that you find poses …
The great thing about photographs is you can pair them down to real basics and no-one questions their lack of reality.
Lighting Diagram
A large softbox upfront provides soft lighting across the form while a bare bulb behinds gives a hair light and seperation from the background.
Sofa’s are kind of great props, in that you can sit, lie, crouch, crawl, curl and all sorts. However, they can also be absolute beggers!
The cushions crinkle, the body disapears, the neck folds wrong, the arms can be wrong, be careful and pay a lot …
This is a study in water droplets on flesh.
Lighting Diagram
Obviously the main concern is safety – mains-powered strobes and water do not mix. The strobes were positioned far enough away that if they fell they could not reach the water. They were also weighted down. They are also of course on full RCD trips.
The principal light is the honeycombed strobe on the left, the softbox on the right provides a little fill at a very low level.
Twisting the model within the light gives entirely different lighting and …
Using a simple cosmetic mud pack we have been able to turn our lovely model into something else entirely.
Lighting Diagram
Hard lighting from one side makes the most of the textures, keep the figure turning within the light to find the right overall shape and shadow as well as detailed textures.
I had pre-visualised this as more of a Grecian Statue shoot, with a little bit of gargoyle thrown in, but when we started shooting I found the
“monster” faces and poses far more interesting so concentrated there.
And don’t forget to move into …
Leah_Axl, a stunning petite brunette with gorgeous features. A very expressive model that works the camera fantastically. She has a fabulous figure and with her unique look can handle any modelling style. From classic poses to funky pin up and sexy back to sweet in the click of a button. She is extremely easy to work with and a pleasure to shoot.
Fires Secret, a beautiful natural red head with long wavy locks of light auburn hair she is definitely unique. She can go from pose to pose without direction but …
