The Fourth Round CASE STUDY #14
CAMERA:
Hasselblad 503c
LENS:
120mm macro
FILM:
Fuji RDP 100
EXPOSURE:
f/8 at 1/125 second
LIGHTING: Luz 800ws strobe packs and a large Chimera softbox on a boom stand; large white reflector on posing table
Assignment
I had to try this at the end of the session when Ashley
One of my clients in the ’90s was a celebrity stock
was a bit tired and her defenses were a bit down. I felt
agency called Shooting Star. Periodically, they would
that it was at this moment I might capture a more au-
send rising stars to my studio to be photographed for
thentic portrait of Ashley.
public relations and celebrity stock. Ashley Sayers was one of the up-and-comers that I got to photograph.
Tip
When you are shooting for a client, take the photoVisual Objective
graphs they want first. Then, give yourself time to take
Acting is a very difficult field to succeed in—and even
the photographs you want. They are paying your bills,
more challenging for children, who are more vulner-
but if you neglect your needs you will regret it later.
able to the fleeting fame. I wanted to illustrate the
Most of the images in my portfolio are the ones that
toughness and the tenderness of a child actor in visu-
landed on the editing floor of the photo editor.
ally clean and concise way.
When working with child actors, get them involved by asking about their favorite actors and movies. Ask
Posing
them to imitate their favorite movie scenes or sing
A simple stool and posing table can be very effective
their favorite songs from Broadway. It’s a lot of fun.
for controlling your subject’s movements. For this tight shot, it allowed Ashley to rest her elbows on the table and cradle her head with the red boxing gloves. 40-degree grid spot as hair light
The Story
Ashley brought wardrobe and props to the session and was enthusiastic, following directions well. Within the first hour we had enough photographs for all her pubwhite reflector
lic relation needs. Still, I felt I hadn’t gotten “the” shot, so I went into my prop bin and pulled out a pair of man-size boxing gloves. I wasn’t sure how Ashley would react but, being the consummate professional, she cooperated. I knew 50
50 LIGHTING SETUPS FOR PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHERS
softbox
softbox
