How to Set Up for Glamour Photography

Soften and flatter with diffused lighting.

Looking back to the 1940s when pin-up girls adorned calendars with ultra-short shorts in provocative poses, today’s glamor photography seeks to create an artistic rendering of the female body without resorting to pornography. If you’re new to this type of photography, follow some guidelines to create sensual images using light and form.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Digital SLR camera
• Lights
• Props

1. Choose a location to enhance the photograph’s objective. If your client wants boudoir shots for her husband, the studio is appropriate but if you’re trying to create an air of sensual innocence, shoot outdoors with nature as a background.

2. Turn your camera sideways. Most people take pictures with their camera upright and this is nice but vertical shots lend an air of professionalism.

3. Opt for solid backgrounds if you’re shooting in the studio. Mottled canvas backgrounds make one think “yearbook photo,” which is just the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve. Solid black and white backdrops let the viewer focus on the model, exclusively.

4. Question the client before the shoot to determine what kind of photograph she wants. All glamor clients want to accentuate their femininity but some want you to portray them in an innocent fashion and others in blatantly sensual manner. Set up the props and lights before the client arrives.

5. Keep it private. Unless you’re shooting a famous model, the client needs to feel comfortable before you can photograph her effectively. Include no more than two assistants in the shoot, preferably female and train them to put the client at ease. Make sure no one enters or leaves the room once the shoot begins.

6. Try positioning the model in a diagonal line from the top of the frame to the bottom. Alternate this by creating an "S" shape with her body to add an instantly-sensual air. Use fans to blow hair and filters to diffuse harsh lighting to flatter facial features.

7. Maintain a makeup area where clients can touch-up their lipstick and eye shadow. While some glamor shots are makeup-free, many clients like the look of heavy makeup for their photo shoot. Consider training an assistant in glamor makeup if a large percentage of your clients want to wear it.

8. Put on some music. Your original interview with the client can give you hints about the choice of music. If she’s posing in a cowboy hat and little else, country and western music can set the mood. Gentle, instrumental pieces create the atmosphere for a soft, innocent shoot.