Alternative Nudes: Creative Lighting and Posing for Photographers

We’ve all heard the idiom, “Sometimes, less is more.” When it comes to photographing the female form, the “more” is sometimes “more trouble.” Without concealing wardrobe options, traditional poses, and unique props or scenic locales to avert the viewer’s gaze, he or she is presented with a nude subject that must, somehow, look confident, alluring, artistic, evocative, and provocative. As the artist in charge of accomplishing this great feat, you’re presented with one tall order. This book provides a behind-the-scenes look at every nuance of the creation of a range of nude and figure images. Focusing primarily on lighting and posing, author Yucel Yalim shows how to create dramatic, dimensional curves and highlight your subject’s best assets with minimal effort, staple equipment, and maximum impact. For each portrait, readers will learn about the concept behind the image, the challenges that had to be met, and how careful posing and lighting choices were made to create a dimensional and compelling view of the woman in front of the lens. Whether you are looking for unique poses, want to learn how playing with various lenses can help you build your repertoire, or want to investigate your post-processing options for creating a stronger, more creative image, this book will open your eyes to countless new approaches. Complete with rationale regarding the hows and whys behind the artistic decisions made, you’ll come away from this book with a solid foundation for producing exquisite, beautifully executed images perfectly tailored to your model’s unique look or interest. This book contains detailed lighting diagrams that help readers understand how to duplicate the style and mood in their own images.