Lindsey is an actress and model. Someone I’d been aware of for some time but hadn’t had the opportunity to work with.
Things aligned and we discussed a series of themes, starting with the classic
black dress, progressing to lingerie, boudoir and implied. Boudoir, implied and concealed nude are genres
that are open to interpretation. These can mean very different things to different
people. Yet another illustration of why good communication is imperative before, during and after a shoot.
For example, someone might be
comfortable being bottomless, their genitals obscured by a camera body, someone
else might draw the line at bra-less with an open blouse. Establishing limits,
context and indeed firm boundaries is a must. If someone, usually the model,
isn’t comfortable with a concept, it will always tell in the images.
Regardless of the theme(s), I
always commence with headshots. Doing so confirms whether I’ve the camera
settings right and if not, can adjust accordingly. It also helps break the ice
and build rapport, especially if we've not worked together before. Model and photographer tend to warm
up and relax over the course of a shoot. All things being equal, images
captured during the second half of a two-hour session are superior to those of
the first.
Tiredness and sudden changes in
weather, or light can also play a significant part. I shot these between F 2.5
and F 1.4 using natural light and a lens-mounted reflector. Towards the close
of our session, I wished I’d retrieved my tripod from the car, since some
captures were impaired by very minor, but tangible camera shake.
