How to Photograph a Pinup
Pinup girls and posters were most popular during World War II, when soldiers longed to be home and images of Rita Hayworth decorated their temporary sleeping quarters. In a much more modern society, pinup girls and photography have made a comeback in a bigger than ever way. There is a whole genre of lifestyle dedicated to the pinup era called Rockabilly. Pinup photography is easy than ever with the great photographic technology utilized today; now, shooting pinups is all about preferences.
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Instructions
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Studios strobe lights and umbrellas help make the model shadowless, just like iconic pinup posters. Set up all studio equipment for the shoot. Strobe lights are a must. These are extremely hot lights that sync to the shutter of a camera and then burst off when the shutter is engaged. These lights eliminate all shadows, but are very hot, hence the reason they flash instead of staying lit. It is important to sync the shutter speed with the strobes, so a few test shots will be needed. If images are half black and half image the shutter speed is too slow. Strobes normally sync around a 250 shutter speed.
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Beaches are some of the best locations for shooting pinups outside of the studio. Eliminate any unflattering shadows with reflectors and photographic umbrellas. This is especially important for shooting outside when studio lights are not used.
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Pinup hairstyles require a lot of time and hairspray, especially to achieve more height. Position the models in front of the camera creating good composition. Posing for pinup photography is not comfortable. Most girls are posing in tight clothing with extremely arched backs and smiles. If models are standing they are posed with their body sideways and the closest foot to the camera is always slightly lifted and the muscle is flexed. Most posing is done to show off their legs and there is always direct eye contact with the camera.
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Tips & Warnings
Any location shot is going to require a reflector; this redirects light and reduces shadows. Always bring an assistant or helper to toggle the reflector to rid the model of any shadows.
Choose wisely when it comes to wardrobe. Pinup costumes and outfits are extremely easy to find. There are plenty of hair resources as well.
Consider any props being used when choosing wardrobe; chairs and small handheld props are often used. Theme shoots are popular as well.
References
- Photo Credit Monochrome close-up portrait of a girl with a berries image by Andrejs Pidjass from Fotolia.com studio umbrella image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com beach image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com hairstyling items image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
