Studio Shoot 25th March

As mentioned in my studio plan my shoot was inspired by photographer Lara Jade. Unfortunately the floor in the studio was filthy and I could not use a white background and had to use a black back drop.  Steve advised the technician was too busy to paint the studio floor and wall, so I knew I would need to post edit some of the backgrounds in photoshop using filters and effects.

I used a 3 in 1 grid diffuser which was positioned central front (to create soft light from the front), an open light Bowens GM500 back left with a reflector pad positioned in front to stop harsh light on the models face, Bowens GM500 at the front left side, set at 1/16 and half way between plus and minus. Steve aided with the initial set up.  

The camera I used was a Canon 5D, mounted on a tripod with lens EF24-105mm.

I did a test shot using the flash meter to get the correct ISO and F/stop number setting. This was ISO100, F/5.6 as the below shot and the shutter speed was set at 1/60.

I made the model aware of the health and safety advising not to touch any of the lights for risk of burns, possible trip hazards especially  n low lighting conditions and the fire exits for the studio as well as the college.

We started to get ready an hour before the shoot for hair, make up and styling. I was responsible for all these areas.

I then positioned the model towards the centre back of the studio in line with the tri-flector.

The model was quite difficult to work with at first which I found a little frustrating - in spite of being briefed the week before and given images to practice posing she had her own idea of how she wanted to pose to the point where I was physically positioning her to look correct for the shots.

I then edited some of the images in photoshop - removing blemishes using the masking tool and adjusting the colour to black and white by desaturating.

I pleased with the shadows and light reflections on the model. I also like the mix up of textures from her pale skin to the contrast of the corsages and lace on her dress and the black background.