Photography for AS media

Hi all,

So, this week I want you to look at (as an extension of classwork) the work of some great photographers (Ross Halfin, David Bailey for example)

Check out this...

http://flavorwire.com/195349/10-rock-photographers-you-should-know

Have a look and get some inpiration.

Consider the pros and cons of: 1. Staged / posed pictures

2. Spontanious pictures

3. Live shots

4. A blend of any other the above (like this Charles Peterson shot of Kurt Cobain c1990 - just before Nirvana became global and were still playing smaller venues)



What do you want your models to do? How can you direct them to get the shots you want?

Never settle for taking just one or two snaps. When you're using the talent (models / bands et al) remember, THEY will get you your top grades, but ONLY if you TELL THEM WHAT TO DO!

Don't feel akward or embarassed about getting them to stand in a certain way, jump around, do whatever. Your marks depend (partially) on your direction.

Finally, remember they're with you but they're on YOUR time. Get them 'into role' from the moment they step in to your studio. Photograph EVERYTHING, not just the posed stanced.

Explain: "I want you to look and behave like a rockstar / spoilt teen icon / happy poppy boy band / Lady Gaga-type-weird postmodern icon / whatever"

Have them stay in role even while you're directing them. If they want to throw a premadonna-esque strop while you're shooting, then role with it.

Explain to your FRIENDS (before they step in to role) what's expected of them. Give them a day to think about it (how they'll behave etc... eg the hungover rockstar who really doesn't want to be there or whatever), make sure you don't know how they'll act in front of the camera, direct them, then take a lot (and I mean A LOT) of shots.

Have fun and enjoy the task. What's the worst that can happen? :-)