Fine art nude photography

[AlbertP]

I've never photographed anyone in the nude before, and I'm interested in exploring this side of the craft--not just doing women nude but also men.

I have no idea of how to get started, though, and I have lots of questions. I know that some of the photographers on this board have done this type of work for ages, and many here are great at it. So I come to you with questions, and I'd be happy to hear from others who have an interest or knowledge as well.

First, before you even find models, what does a newcomer need to know about approaching people as potential subjects. Are there model releases that must be signed? Do you have agreements with the models about how or whether photographs may be shown by you?

Second, once you have a model, how do get him or her to relax? There are practical concerns, too, such as where do you have him/her undress? Do you offer or provide covering for the model when not shooting? Or are all of these things handled differently, depending upon the model?

Third, why do models generally do this kind of work? Or is that, too, dependent on the model? How do you advertise that you want to shoot nudes? Perhaps a photography class that gears toward this kind of thing is the place to start? Are there even such photography classes?

I have many more questions, but in the interest of not boring you too much right away, I'll post this first.

[ellette]

I'm not involved in it and have no intentions...but I have some advice.

Originally Posted by AlbertP

First, before you even find models, what does a newcomer need to know about approaching people as potential subjects. Are there model releases that must be signed? Do you have agreements with the models about how or whether photographs may be shown by you?

Try not to walk up to someone with a leer or your tongue hangin out...that is a BIG no-no and will likely send them running.

Second, once you have a model, how do get him or her to relax? There are practical concerns, too, such as where do you have him/her undress? Do you offer or provide covering for the model when not shooting? Or are all of these things handled differently, depending upon the model?

Keep YOUR clothes on, and have an assistant the same sex as the model or tell the model to bring a chaperone along.

Third, why do models generally do this kind of work? Or is that, too, dependent on the model? How do you advertise that you want to shoot nudes? Perhaps a photography class that gears toward this kind of thing is the place to start? Are there even such photography classes?

It is recommended you do not wander around wearing a sandwich type sign saying "want to photgraph nudes".

I would imagine there is a photography class for almost any type of photography you could want. After all, there are drawing classes mostly dealing with nudes, why not photography. Maybe you could contact an art school near you and ask how they get their models and you could start by paying a model to let you photograph her/him so you can develop a portfolio.

Sara

[photosbymorgan2]

My suggestion is go to a workshop that deals with fine art nudes and glamour. You will learn how to light the models and how to interact with the models and you will come away with some photos for your portfolio that you can show future models whom you wish to work with.

[Gaelan]

Greetings from your friendly neighborhood druid
Al you should have no trouble finding models and exploring their undraped bodies with your camera if you follow my suggestions:
First, question yourself; "Why do you want to make figure studies?" ( I like this term, it has that "artsy" flavor that is missing in the clinical/legal "nude" and is less offensive than "naked or, as we say in the South, nekkid" photographs/pichers) ;
If your answer indicates that you want to see a lady without any covering and try to make photographs while being a gentleman and behaving yourself, at least you are honest.
If you have the idea that figure studies can be one of the most difficult of all subjects to record and present as true works of art, you are so right.
Anyone can take a photograph of a naked/nekkid body. Most everyone will look at something that is normally hidden from view out of simple curiosity. Even at nudist camps or at swimmin' holes, when a new person shows up and doffs their garments, others will stare for a few moments then go about their business. It's the novelty of the moment.
I assume that your interest in figure studies is to try something new and bordering on mystical. There is a fascination with the subject and a feeling of power in having the ability of waving your camera and having lovely ladies expose their bodies for your pleasure. Wrong thinking, Bubula!
The successful techniques that I have used from high school days can be condensed into two words:

TRUST--There must be mutual trust between photographer and model in order for the two of you to create a work of art. You have to trust her to act professionally and behave herself in front of the camera; she has to trust you to stay behind the camera, keep your hands to yourself, make her look glamorous, not show her image to your buddies or display it without her permission, and respect her in the morning.

CRAFTSMANSHIP--The results of your work together must be so satisfying to the model that she will want to display it. This is how you get more models.
Always strive to please the model.

Where do I find models willing to do figure studies?
The first were girlfriends in high school and college. From the first few I photographed, who learned that they could trust me, they brought their friends or showed my work to others who wished to have themselves photographed. There were many who called me over the years based on my ethics and my work.
Prospective models are dancers, theatrical and modeling hopefuls, housewives, any lady who would like to experience glamour and preserve the moment.
You only need a portfolio of excellent work and references and the ability to approach someone you see as a good model.
If you are bashful about asking anyone you see you may go through a modeling agency or advertise through a college art instructor who knows you as a serious photographer.
In larger cities and on the Internet there are models and model agencies who advertise their services. Caveat emptor.
Once you have a dozen or so excellent images in your portfolio you should have an easy time thereafter,
You ask; "Why do individuals want to pose in the nude?". The correct answer is as individual as the model and may be one of, or a combination of the following:
The thrill of doing something "naughty". Hardly a mature concept but it happens.
An attempt to gain attention or explore sexual maturity. Also dangerous ground with anyone not above the age of majority, unless they are/have been married.

Let us examine the legal complications of figure photography at this juncture:
To explain the above statement I will quote an attorney friend. "This is the only time where man can do what God can not." In other words; if a girl below the age of 21 has been married then she is considered to be an adult and charges of contributing to the delinquency of a minor or pedophilia do not apply.
As a matter of personal honor and professionalism AND to keep things from becoming legally complicated, always get a model release if you display or sell a figure study. Even if nothing is visible but the torso and the model is not identifiable. The fact that it is a nude photograph makes it liable for legal entanglements.

The best reason for a model to wish to pose au natural is that she realizes that she has reached a stage in her life when she has achieved a moment of beauty that is worth recording and preserving.
Remember the scene in Titanic when Kate Winslet asked Leonardo DiCaprio to draw her wearing only the jewel? Remember his professionalism as an artist?
That, sir, is the conditions you should seek as well as the results.
Let us get back to the other aspects of your query:

How do you treat the model?
Respectfully as a person, not as a subject.
Talk to them as a friend. Encourage them to think positively of themselves. Complement freely and limit criticism to the critique of your photograph. You are the one responsible if the photo is not successful.
It is the person behind the camera that sets the controls, who observes the effects of light and decides when to release the shutter that produces the photograph. The model can help by being in the mood and following suggestions. You work together to produce a memorable image.
Be truthful. They are special. It is important to record them as they are in this moment of time. We all change and time can erode external beauty. (Remember I said "external")
They should think of how they wish to be viewed. Tell a model to imagine herself looking at the viewing public from behind the protective glass in a frame as a photograph hanging in an art museum centuries from now, an ageless beauty for all to admire and some to envy.
It is an ego trip that few can resist. And it is the truth if you are talented enough to capture and render that image she imagines.

The first time you meet you should devote more time to social interaction than working.
Even if you hire a professional model, she needs to view your previous work, get an idea of your plans for the photos you are going to make, especially what is required of her concerning pose, expression, etc.
Figure studies may be clinically devoid of emotion or they may project emotion. The difference is often in the amount of eye contact or lack of. The difference may be best illustrated in comparing a classic nude with Miss July centerfold.
Discuss what you are hoping to achieve and accept what your model is comfortable with before you even start to work.
If it is your first time together and she wishes to bring a chaperone, encourage it.
Chaperones are not parents or boy friends or anyone who will make the model or you uncomfortable.
An idea chaperone is one skilled in makeup who will act as your assistant to adjust drapes or that ever falling lock of hair. Someone who just might get into the spirit of the moment and like to pose as well.
I make it a practice to edit all photos, eliminating any uncomplimentary, ( hey! I want the model to see only my best work).
The only time we review all the photos is when I feel comfortable enough with a model to assume a co-worker approach to a project and make it a joint learning experience. Such collaboration produces a more enjoyable and productive session. It is possible after you have worked together several times or the model is also a photographer and wishes to improve her skills.
I always give a selection of the better images to models for their service.
At the present time I am learning the "darkroom" side of digital photography and not engaged in commercial or exhibition. I supply the model with a collection of all the good photos from our secession, keeping only the master disk for my files. That way, only she may display the photos as she sees fit. Should I need a model release I will ask at that time and we can decide on compensation. If I ever complete my book or decide to have an exhibition of my work I know that I can get permission to use images I have on file.

Start the first working session with a series of quick snaps to loosen up. Give a minimal amount of direction, let the model display natural ability, ( or lack of ), adjust to the surroundings. Let her reach a level of comfort with the idea that her space is not violated and you are serious about getting a good photo of her.
During this period the clothing should be on and the photos you make should be for general use. Even if the figure work is unsatisfactory there will still be photos that will show your abilities. The session will not be a total wash out.

I find that most models relax in a studio setting to the appropriate music and music sets the mood for the emotions you wish to capture. Suggest that your model bring a recording that she would like to work with. Let her set the mood and try to capture her responses. Later you may try selections that you get image ideas from. This is an exercise that is a learning experience in teamwork and creativity. The recording may later be used as the sound track for a CD slide show.
When the model undresses, should you watch? That depends on your ability to correctly interpret the body language and expressed wishes of your model. DON'T STARE!
In the studio there should be a private room or at least a screened area for the lady to remove her street clothing, do her makeup, don a robe or drape and exit to the camera room.
Once you both feel comfortable, began by experimenting with lighting.
Use your lights to achieve the highlights and shadows and the body as a contour of shapes to be illuminated and explored. Do not skimp on film or spend too much time between pose/lighting changes. Give a break every 5-15 minutes. Stay calm and professionally friendly. PLEASE! do not use tacky directions like "Look sexy!" They are degrading to you and the model. If glamour/cheescake is what you are after the model will get the idea and give or withhold as she chooses.
Try not to spend too much time running about and creating chaotic sensations. Explain what you are about and be efficient in your movements.
Stay behind the camera as much as possible and direct quietly. Those photographers you see shouting at models and employing assistants are few and the professional models they use are paid to tolerate the low theatrics. You are photographing a friend, not a hired subject.

Remember that I used the term "external beauty"? Pretty is easily seen. True beauty comes from within. I have asked many pretty girls to pose for me and found their shallow, self centered ego visible in the finished prints. If there is distrust or suspicion of you, it will show. If they are having a bad hair day or personal problems, don't waste film, go get a cup of coffee and unwind. The model needs to be at her best emotionally in order to project it from the finished photograph.
As her photographer you must be able to see the qualities below the skin and makeup that give her the true beauty that is the subject of your photograph.
So far I have only elaborated on the controlled conditions provided by the studio.
Outdoor nudity presents a variety of distractions and difficulties from unexpected intrusions by people and wildlife to weather. Always keep a raincoat or robe within reach should you detect the approach of a park ranger, troop of cub scouts, hunters, raindrops. A first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, and Calomine lotion is also a good idea to keep in a back pack.
Learn the difference between a background of lush foliage and poison ivy. Fire ants ain't no fun either.
Models should wear safe walking shoes in transit. High heels do not belong in the woods.
City gals without woodlands smarts can get into trouble real fast. Unless she is a Jane, don't expect her to swing from the trees or scamper up rocks like Tarzan.
In flowing streams, ponds, lakes; insist that your model wear foot protection unless her feet will show. Also pack towels and a tube of liquid soap should she get muddy.
I have semi amusing tales of previous outdoor model shoots which would require several hours and six-packs to elaborate on. Not here, maybe later.
Security can be handled by assistants or intimate knowledge of the surroundings. Weather is easy, even exciting to work with. Backgrounds are as limitless as you may imagine.
It is a great adventure which appeals to quite a few.

I have only used the term "she" for the model. I have no experience with photographing the male body nude. I just never wanted to. You may have a totally different set of psychological parameters to contend with working with a male model. Females are complex enough for myself.

I hope these words of advice will encourages you to seek, find, work successfully with a number of models to produce a gallery of stunning images and experience the satisfaction and frustration of photographing the human body.
Goddess Bless
Gaelan
PS- I started this essay early this morning and had to delay posting until now. I see that some of my better points have been answered by others. Bet they never had experience with cub scouts, fire ants or poison ivy.

[Paul Shields]

Gaelan, your posts are, as always, thorough and informative. I really appreciate your thoughts and attention to detail.

[bavanor]

Great post Gaelan. Keep em coming.

[Rokcet Scientist]

Originally Posted by AlbertP

I've never photographed anyone in the nude before...

My advice? DON'T!
Keep your clothes on at all costs!

Have fun,
RS