Masculine and Feminine Poses

Photography poses can play a significant role in portraying a person's gender identity. Masculine and feminine poses differ in terms of body language, facial expressions, and overall mood. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast masculine and feminine photography poses, using real-world examples of each.

Masculine Poses:

Masculine photography poses often emphasize strength, power, and confidence. They typically involve more straight lines and angular shapes, as well as a greater sense of physicality. Here are some examples of masculine photography poses:

1. The Power Pose: This pose is all about projecting strength and dominance. The subject stands tall with their chest puffed out and arms extended, as if they are about to conquer the world.

2. The Brooding Pose: This pose is all about portraying a sense of quiet intensity. The subject is often captured with their head tilted down, eyes staring off into the distance, and a hint of a smile or smirk on their face.

3. The Action Pose: This pose involves capturing the subject in motion, such as running, jumping, or performing a physical activity. It conveys a sense of athleticism, agility, and speed.

Feminine Poses:

Feminine photography poses often emphasize grace, elegance, and beauty. They typically involve more curves and soft shapes, as well as a greater sense of emotion. Here are some examples of feminine photography poses:

1. The S-Curve Pose: This pose involves creating an "S" shape with the body, which emphasizes curves and lines. The subject may tilt their head to the side, lift their chin, or arch their back to create a more flattering silhouette.

2. The Romantic Pose: This pose involves capturing the subject in a way that conveys a sense of romance or intimacy. The subject may be captured in a close embrace with a partner, or may be captured looking off into the distance with a dreamy expression.

3. The Innocent Pose: This pose involves capturing the subject in a way that conveys a sense of innocence or vulnerability. The subject may be captured with their head tilted down, eyes closed, and a slight smile on their face.

It's important to note that not all poses are strictly masculine or feminine. Individuals may choose to adopt poses that feel most comfortable to them, regardless of societal expectations or gender norms. The examples listed above are simply a starting point for exploring different photography poses.

In conclusion, masculine and feminine photography poses differ in terms of body language, facial expressions, and overall mood. Masculine poses tend to emphasize strength and power, while feminine poses tend to emphasize grace and beauty. By understanding the differences between these two types of poses, photographers can better capture the essence of their subjects and create images that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Facial Shapes and generally how to light them.

Facial lighting is a crucial element in portrait photography. It can enhance the features of the subject, create depth, and add dimensionality to the image. Understanding the different facial lighting patterns for facial shapes can help you create stunning portraits that flatter your subject's features. In this blog post, we will discuss the different lighting patterns for various facial shapes.

1. Oval Shaped Face

An oval-shaped face is considered the ideal facial shape for portraiture. It is well-balanced and symmetrical, and it can be lit from any direction. For an oval-shaped face, a standard lighting setup with soft, diffused light is ideal. This can be achieved using a large light source like a softbox or a window. The light should be positioned slightly above the subject's eye level and angled downwards.

1. Round Shaped Face

A round-shaped face is characterized by soft, curved lines. To create depth and definition, it's best to use a lighting pattern that emphasizes the cheekbones and jawline. A short lighting setup is ideal for a round-shaped face. This involves positioning the light source slightly to the side of the subject's face, at a 45-degree angle. This will create shadows on the opposite side of the face, emphasizing the cheekbones and jawline.

1. Square Shaped Face

A square-shaped face is characterized by sharp angles and a strong jawline. To soften the features and create a more flattering portrait, it's best to use a lighting pattern that emphasizes the eyes and cheekbones. A butterfly lighting setup is ideal for a square-shaped face. This involves positioning the light source directly in front of the subject's face and slightly above their eye level. This will create a butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose, emphasizing the cheekbones and creating a flattering look.

1. Heart Shaped Face

A heart-shaped face is characterized by a broad forehead and a narrow chin. To balance the features and create a flattering portrait, it's best to use a lighting pattern that emphasizes the chin and jawline. A loop lighting setup is ideal for a heart-shaped face. This involves positioning the light source slightly to the side of the subject's face, at a 30-degree angle. This will create a loop-shaped shadow under the nose, emphasizing the chin and creating a flattering look.

In conclusion, understanding the different facial lighting patterns for facial shapes can help you create stunning portraits that flatter your subject's features. When selecting a lighting pattern, consider the shape of your subject's face and the look you want to achieve. With the right lighting setup, you can create beautiful and flattering portraits that your subject will love.

What are The benifits to shooting studio portraits tethered to a computer?

Shooting studio portraits tethered to a computer can offer several benefits for photographers:

1. Improved workflow: Tethered shooting allows photographers to see their images on a larger screen immediately after they are taken. This can help to identify and correct issues such as focus, exposure, and composition in real-time. It also allows for faster image selection and culling during the shoot, saving time in post-production.

2. Better collaboration: Tethering enables clients, art directors, and other members of the team to view the images as they are being taken, which can facilitate communication and collaboration. This can be particularly useful in commercial or editorial shoots where multiple stakeholders need to be involved in the decision-making process.

3. Precise lighting adjustments: Tethered shooting can help photographers to make precise adjustments to their lighting setups, as they can see the effect of changes in real-time. This can be especially useful for complex lighting setups or when working with multiple lights.

4. Enhanced image quality: When shooting tethered, images can be captured in RAW format, which provides greater flexibility and control in post-processing. The larger screen also makes it easier to see any imperfections or areas that need retouching.

5. More efficient organization and backup: Tethered shooting allows images to be automatically saved to the computer, which can help to keep files organized and reduce the risk of losing images. Additionally, many tethering software programs offer automatic backup to multiple locations, providing an extra layer of protection against data loss.

What are the top 5 programs to shoot tethered?

There are many programs available for shooting tethered, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are five popular programs for shooting tethered:

1. Capture One Pro: Capture One Pro is a powerful image editing and tethering software that is popular among professional photographers. It offers advanced features such as custom color profiles, customizable workspaces, and support for more than 500 camera models. It also has a comprehensive suite of tools for image editing and organization.

2. Adobe Lightroom Classic: Adobe Lightroom Classic is a popular software for editing and organizing photos, and it also has a built-in tethering feature. It is a great option for photographers who already use the Adobe Creative Suite, as it integrates well with other Adobe applications such as Photoshop and Bridge.

3. Canon EOS Utility: Canon EOS Utility is a free software that comes with Canon cameras, and it offers basic tethering features such as remote shooting, image viewing, and camera settings adjustment. It is a great option for Canon users who need a simple tethering solution.

4. Nikon Camera Control Pro: Nikon Camera Control Pro is a software that offers advanced tethering features for Nikon users. It allows users to control camera settings remotely, adjust focus, and view images in real-time. It also offers advanced features such as time-lapse photography and batch processing.

5. Fujifilm Tether Shooting Plug-in: The Fujifilm Tether Shooting Plug-in is a free software that allows Fujifilm users to shoot tethered using compatible cameras. It offers basic features such as remote shooting, focus adjustment, and image viewing. It is a great option for Fujifilm users who need a simple tethering solution.

Where do you find your models?

There are several ways to find photography models:

1. Model agencies: You can reach out to local model agencies and ask if they have any models available for photoshoots.

2. Social media: You can use social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Model Mayhem to find and connect with potential models.

3. Local events: Attend local events such as trade shows, fashion events, and fairs to network with potential models.

4. Online modeling communities: There are online communities and forums dedicated to connecting photographers with models, such as Reddit's r/Model.

5. Referrals: Ask friends, family, or fellow photographers for referrals to models they have worked with in the past.

Note: Always sure to comply with the relevant laws and regulations regarding model releases, contracts, and compensation.

Movie Style Portraits: Capturing the Magic of Cinema in a Single Shot

As a photographer, I have always been inspired by the magic of movies. The way a scene can evoke emotions and transport us to another world has always been fascinating. This is why I have decided to bring that magic into my portraits.

Movie style portraits are a type of photography that recreates the look and feel of iconic scenes from films. It's a way of paying homage to the art form while also showcasing the subject in a unique and memorable way. These portraits can range from simple headshots to elaborate scenes, but what they all have in common is the use of lighting, costumes, and other elements to evoke the feeling of a movie.

The first step in creating a movie style portrait is to choose the right subject. Ideally, you want someone who is confident and willing to experiment, as well as someone who has a strong sense of style. The subject should also be comfortable in front of the camera, as this is key to getting the right expression and body language.

Noir For Noirs Sake

Theme is everything

Next, you need to decide on the movie or scene you want to recreate. This can be something as simple as a headshot inspired by a classic Hollywood film, or something more elaborate like a scene from a sci-fi movie. Once you have a clear idea of what you want to do, you can start planning the shot.

The key to creating a movie style portrait is the use of lighting. This can be achieved through the use of natural light, studio lighting, or a combination of both. You want to create a mood and atmosphere that is reminiscent of the movie you're trying to recreate. For example, if you're doing a scene from a noir film, you want to use low-key lighting to create a moody atmosphere.

Another important aspect of movie style portraits is the use of costumes and props. These elements can help bring the scene to life and add an extra layer of authenticity. You don't have to spend a lot of money on costumes or props, as you can often find what you need at second-hand stores or by raiding your own wardrobe.

Finally, you need to capture the shot. This is where your technical skills as a photographer come into play. You want to make sure that you have the right lens and settings to get the right shot. You also want to be mindful of your composition, as you want the scene to look as cinematic as possible.

In conclusion, movie style portraits are a fun and creative way to showcase your subject in a unique and memorable way. By recreating the look and feel of classic scenes from films, you can bring a touch of Hollywood magic to your portraits. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this type of photography is a great way to experiment and have fun. So why not try it for yourself and see what kind of magic you can create?

5 First Place Blue Ribbons! Las Vegas AAPI 2023

Holy Cow! 5 first place photographs for my daily grind at the Old Time Photo in Deadwood. This took me by surprise! It has been a long hard year and this just felt so cathartic.

Best Image of an Infant with Technical Excellence

The competition was held mid January 2023 at APPI (Antique & Amusement Photographers International) convention in Las Vegas. Only photos from the 2022 shooting year were allowed to enter. There was 30 categories, of which we entered into 20. Of those 20, we took first place 13 times!!!! Second place about 8 time and third place twice. Every year, they award Technical Excellence up to 5 images before main judging starts. We took 3 out of 5 Technical Excellence awards, one of which going to my photo of the little girl seen above!

Best Image of Children

It was a fantastic 3-4 days of meeting and reminiscing with other OTP (Old Time Photography) Studios and photographers. While my studio focus’ on western and dabbles in 1920/1930’s photos, many other OTP’s have Pirate, steam punk and even Witch themed shoots! Its a great place to get fresh new ideas.

Best Western Themed Image

This year I was lucky to get a Boudoir. I’m glad I was able to make the most of it!

Best Boudoir

Hey look its me!

Best Self Portrait

I can’t believe my ugly mug won!

Boudoir @ Celebrity Hotel suite in Deadwood, SD

November 22, I set out on an impromptu boudoir shoot. I was lucky enough to find a very reasonable day rate at the Celebrity Hotel.

Wow!

The Celebrity Hotel in Deadwood was the best experience I have ever had as a photographer! They charged me a very respectable day rate for quite a premium and classy room. My model was very impressed!

My model Amara was a pleasure to work with. This was not a paying shoot for myself, or her, but we both had a great time bouncing ideas around and getting some very fun shots. The room at the Celebrity Hotel was large enough for my bulky lights to be placed without too many restriction.

All The Space!

Not only was the room quite large but it had access to a shared rooftop patio looking over Main Street Deadwood. Albeit chilly during the off season, this tripled the amount of space available to work with.

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“If you’re looking for the real Deadwood with all of its grandeur, this is the place to stay. The Celebrity Hotel is located on the site of Deadwood’s first hotel in 1876, the completely renovated building represents the finest in historic preservation.”

“When you enter the Grand Lobby you will be greeted with Victorian antiques, massive Swarovski crystal chandeliers, elaborate carved mahogany woodwork and gold gilded decorative ceilings that bring DEADWOOD’S GOLD RUSH DAYS back to life. ”

— CelebrityHotel.com