This photo shoot has been a long time coming. One of my favorite photo models Charlie [Secret Weapon] had been working on some major Tattoo artwork together with a talented tattoo artist Bryan Blanco who coincidentally shares the same first name with me. I had also been putting together some concepts for a series of exotic and creative photo shoots, working with bold colors and dramatic styling. This was the perfect creative project to get my home studio up and running for more controlled shooting – I posted earlier here about it:
https://bryanallo.wordpress.com/2013/07/06/photo-studio-on-a-budget/
Hair and makeup was done by Courtney Hurley or Ravish [https://www.facebook.com/ravishedbeauties]. This was the second time I have worked with her and I like how she is able to create the look I am going for. In every subject, I see a two looks; the one everyone else sees everyday, and the one hidden deep inside. I have little interest in shooting what everyone else sees in a person, because it is pretty obvious. In this case Charlie has a daring personality, bold, independent minded with a mean free spirited streak. I wanted a look that contrasted greatly with that but still portrayed who she is a the core – daring, seductive, wild, mellow. I wanted a look that would make those most familiar with Charlie take a second glance before realizing who it is.
For this shoot I used the Canon 5D Mark III body + Canon EF 70-200 f/2.8 IS II. For lighting I used two Canon 430EX speedlites in full manual mode with simple RF triggers and Interfit Strobies kit. This session lasted about 2 hours with 1 hour hair, makeup and studio prep prior.
My biggest challenge here was how to showcase this great tattoo artwork, in a tasteful manner. Here are some shots from this creative endeavor. As always any constructive feedback is very welcomed and most appreciated.
Pingback: Photo studio on a budget | Shutter Warrior