How to Take Digital Glamour Photography

Glamour photography is a combination of portraiture and photography. Women have these portraits taken as a gift for their spouse or as a treat for themselves. Originally these shots pictured heavy makeup and big hair. Today's glamour shots are more subdued and natural. High key lighting has been replaced with soft natural light, and a fan creates movement for more flowing hair styles.

Things You'll Need

• Poser
• Studio lights
• Reflectors
• Fan
• Good quality digital camera
• Photo-editing software
• Photo-quality printer
• Frame

Instructions

1. Prepare your subject by helping her apply makeup and style her hair. Encourage your subject to wear solid colors so the attention remains on her face.

2. Have your client sit on a poser about two feet in front of a backdrop that matches her skin tone and coordinates with her attire.

3. Set your lights up with the main light about 3 feet from your subject and at a 45 degree angle. The second light should be behind the camera and at eye level with the subject. Attach an umbrella to reflect the light back onto your subject. Use a hair light pointing directly at the head to create separation between your subject and the background.

4. Take a few test shots to make sure the lighting is right. Add a fan to create movement to the hair. Adjust the fan according to size and speed. This is something that will take some experimenting at first.

5. Finish your shoot and take as many pictures as you can. The best way to get a few great shots is to take many pictures. Touch up any imperfections using your software and print the picture. Present the final product to your client in a frame.