HAPPY ACCIDENTS

Dear reader, if this entry or my other blog entries don't answer your specific photography questions, you can call me on the phone anytime for advice by clicking here.

There have been many times when during a photo shoot, it is the test shots that turn out the best. Most often it is because the models aren't conscious of the need to start performing. In this case, the woman in this photo was my assistant, and we were getting the studio ready for a photo shoot. Prior to any photo sessions, I always get my assistants to stand in so I can test my lights. When I saw the results of the test photo, and the mystery that it conveyed, I immediately knew that this test image would be far better than the results of the real photo shoot, and I could probably not duplicate the results anyway. So during the real photo session we worked with other studio set-ups.

What I learned from this experience is that it is wise to avoid deleting photos in-camera, at least until after they are all loaded into your computer. There could be many jems that may not look good on your tiny 3 inch screen, but may be great on your much larger computer monitor.

Mark's photographic prints for your wall can be purchased at www.markhemmings.com

Mark can be hired as a photographer or filmmaker via www.hemmingshouse.com

FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY

Dear reader, if this entry or my other blog entries don't answer your specific photography questions, you can call me on the phone anytime for advice by clicking here.

The lack of a photo studio may be keeping you from trying your hand at fashion photography. Many fashion photographers begin by photographing outdoors, which can produce great results with the right background. There seems to always be young men or women who would gladly trade modeling for portfolio photos; you get a free model, and they get free photography. In the beginning, this is a good arrangement for both parties. Most model hopefuls don't have the cash to pay a photographer full price for a portfolio, and most amateur fashion photographers don't have the cash to pay a model full price to practice on. So why not start out helping each other?

Some important points to keep in mind when photographing models outdoors; look for interesting backgrounds, choose overcast days (in most cases), purchase and learn to use a reflector, and keep in mind that you are not the boss . . . the success of the photo shoot relies on the connection between the photographer and model, thus it is in everybody's best interest to keep a groove going.

If you are having trouble finding models, go to your local hair salons, and tell the stylists what you are doing and offering. They will often have regular clients who will be up for a photo shoot, especially if you offer the photos to the stylist as well (for his or her own portfolio). There are also many websites on-line that have geographic listings of models who are just starting out. You may see the terms TFP or TFCD, which means "Trade for Prints" or "Trade for a Photo CD", respectively. If the models list these terms as an option, you might be able to arrange a shoot where no money changes hands.

There will come a time, however, when both the models and the photographers will give up the trading, and will only work for cash. This is necessary, as to do otherwise can devalue the market, which none of us want. When you feel like you have reached a skill level where your images can be published, start charging for your work. The models will also be doing the same, as they get more experience and proficiency in front of the camera.

Mark's photographic prints for your wall can be purchased at www.markhemmings.com

Mark can be hired as a photographer or filmmaker via www.hemmingshouse.com