We decided to set up a studio at my house using the college lights and various back drops and set ups. The aim was to famiarise ourselves with the lights and practise instructing our sitters. My aim was to reproduce an exercise in the book the Photographic Portrait by Robin Gillanders. The aim was to demonstrate how body language and positioning affects the message that the portrait conveys even when the sitter keeps a neutral facial expression.
With the help of Eric and Steve we set up our studio, experimenting with various exposures, lighting, backdrops and camera/tripod positions. We took great care to avoid trip hazards with cable positioning and floor covering.
I would also try to produce some good quality pictures that could be used for job applications/CV that Eric was happy with. I'd asked Eric to wear a white shirt and a selection of bright ties.
We start off in neutral position as far as possible.My sitter was also gifted in the use of the light meter.
Position 2.
Head up, defensive, like a prison mug shot.
Head up, defensive, like a prison mug shot.
Position 3. Arms folded, again defensive perhaps nervous.
Position 4. Head up, slightly turned away, arms folded, superior, disdainful, unapproachable.
Position 5. Shoulders and head turned away slightly, less confrontational, bland even.
Position 6. Head tilted to one side, empathetic. He's relaxed, listening to you and interested.
Position 7. Shoulders turned but head full on. You have his full attention, but not in the relaxed manner of 6.
Position 8. Same as 7 but no eye contact. No photographer/sitter relationship. you are observing him but his interest is elsewhere.
Position 8. Same as 7 but no eye contact. No photographer/sitter relationship. you are observing him but his interest is elsewhere.
Position 9. Looking up to the camera, diminished status.
Position 10. Looking down to the camera, elevated status.
Thanks very much for your help and patience, Eric.
Contact Print from the day.
When I'd completed the required pictures, and having observed the outcomes on the camera screen, I felt more confident and took a few more shots to get a good picture which reflected his good natured patience. I was happy with this shot, although I can see the reflection of the lighting umbrella in the left lens of his specks. We could have overcome this maybe with a soft box.
Position 10. Looking down to the camera, elevated status.
Thanks very much for your help and patience, Eric.
Contact Print from the day.
When I'd completed the required pictures, and having observed the outcomes on the camera screen, I felt more confident and took a few more shots to get a good picture which reflected his good natured patience. I was happy with this shot, although I can see the reflection of the lighting umbrella in the left lens of his specks. We could have overcome this maybe with a soft box.
What was model from the inland revenue??
ReplyDeletePosition 9 could have the caption "Now look here you young whipper snapper" I like post4 best I think, you should smile too, you are always smiling! Most excellect choice of model Pip, hope he did your tax return for you in between takes.
ReplyDeleteI mean I like post 5. I've lost the ability to make sense :S
ReplyDeleteYea good stuff pip! Thanks for having us all and letting us take over your place,Dawn and the Gaffer did us all proud,2 great models!!
ReplyDeleteI like position 10! it looks like he's telling you he's had enough now, he needs coffee!! thanks for the time at your place Pip, it was nice of you to put with us!
ReplyDeleteHi
ReplyDeleteGreat experimental work away in your own time how refreshing to see.
Also working as a team is ideal. And wow what a great model you had I must say. (INLAND REVENUE INDEED how rude (ha ha) ).
Links to research also need to be mentioned.
steve