Photography Tips

[TeachMeSir]

HI, i'm hoping that someone out there can help me.

Master has requested that i take some pictures of myself that are tastefully erotic and obviously center on the Master/sub theme. i know he wants to see me in His collar

i have some ideas, most of which were less than successful and so am looking for any pointers from any point of view. i hope to be bale to give him a slection that i take over time. He has only just started training me so i am not clear on His specific likes & dislikes.

Here are some of the specific questions i have asked myself but i know that there are many more answers out there. Please keep in mind that apart from 1 very good friend who is happy to help me, these will be self-portraits (tripod & camera deal). i do have a nice camera which makes it easier

How can i get the best lighting?
What should i wear?
Are there any posing/positioning suggestions?
Suggested props/toys?

i can't wait to hear all the words of wisdom

 

[catalina_francisco]

For lighting I would suggest steering clear of flash to help create an intimate mood....perhaps use candles....the other questions would be best answered by him as it would depend on his taste. Good luck.

Catalina

 

[TeachMeSir]

Thanks Catalina,

I had a terrible experince with a bright sun, atrificial light & flashes ... I have been experimenting with candles as well as "pinque" lightbulbs which seem to work well but i know that there is a lot I don't know.

 

[FurryFury]

Are you comfortable with creating and sending pictures?

 

[TeachMeSir]

i have already taken & sent Him some but know that i can do better, i just don't know how. It's not that i'm uncomfortable for Master to see me, but i want to look "comfortable" in the pictures, not like a stiff mannequin.

 

[FurryFury]

i have already taken & sent Him some but know that i can do better, i just don't know how. It's not that i'm uncomfortable for Master to see me, but i want to look "comfortable" in the pictures, not like a stiff mannequin.

I know what you mean. I want mine to look like art, not porn.

 

[TeachMeSir]

Yes, exactly. Erotic, sensual, submissive, artistic, tastefully naughty at times, but always "classy".

 

[FurryFury]

I'd like some to look back on someday and say woo I was hot. Of course, I know I'll be saying shit like, I look hot in this shot due to the lighting and angle . . . or focusing on the one flaw I can see.

I'm all bad that way.

 

[rida]

I found out that the important thing is to have fun and enjoy the shooting session. And thanks to the digital era, we can now take as many shots as we wish and see the results right away and move a bit the body this way or that way to make the pic more flattening. And let's not forget cropping the shot afterwards for a better framing! LOL

As for a couple little advise while taking the pictures, light is important, but even more so is the background. Make sure that there is no clutter or too many colors. I found that taking pics in front of an empty wall or a closet or even a set of drawers create a simple background. If you want to use a chair or the bed or someother prop, make sure to move it in front of a simple background.

Thanks Catalina,

I had a terrible experince with a bright sun, atrificial light & flashes ... I have been experimenting with candles as well as "pinque" lightbulbs which seem to work well but i know that there is a lot I don't know.

Try to use the direct sun-light to play with shadows on your body, to create contrast. It works pretty well.

Have fun

 

[sirmed]

Window Light

after 30 years of photography and only 5 at a master...... WINDOW light is soft and big so it is very kind.... and a nice white sheet or wall on the other side of ya.. will do nicely...

 

[MarshallGirl]

i have always found black and white to be the most erotic pictures, also don't have yourself in the center of the picture. In your mind draw a tic tac toe board and put the main focus on one of the line intersections, it makes for a much more artsy picture. also try weird angles not just the simplier ones. are you taking the pictures yourself or setting a timer or having a friend take them for you?

 

[TeachMeSir]

i think i'll be taking them myself, which is helpful because then we aren't chatting during the whole process, but it also makes it difficult to set the camera on the tripod, focus it, set the timer & get to where i want to be (after moving whatever object i used for the initial focusing) and trying not to trip over anything & then look relaxed when the shutter goes - i though that if i oculd be more confident in some things then i may stress less & be happier with the outcome.

i had heard of the tic-tac-toe thing but had forgotten. Thanks for reminding me.

SirMed - i will also try the window light. Thanks for the tip. Can you also tell me, is it better to be against the backdrop, or some distance in front to provide a sharper focus on the subject only?

Cheers everyone for taking the time to help me with this.

 

[catalina_francisco]

i think i'll be taking them myself, which is helpful because then we aren't chatting during the whole process, but it also makes it difficult to set the camera on the tripod, focus it, set the timer & get to where i want to be (after moving whatever object i used for the initial focusing) and trying not to trip over anything & then look relaxed when the shutter goes - i though that if i oculd be more confident in some things then i may stress less & be happier with the outcome.

i had heard of the tic-tac-toe thing but had forgotten. Thanks for reminding me.

SirMed - i will also try the window light. Thanks for the tip. Can you also tell me, is it better to be against the backdrop, or some distance in front to provide a sharper focus on the subject only?

Cheers everyone for taking the time to help me with this.

Is it possible to buy a remote control device for your camera? That removes the problem of setting timer and then diving and trying to look natural. While the tic tac toe thing is one of those rules many apply to their photography, it is not something I would hold to 100% as it is only a guideline, and one many photographers of note do not necessarily follow...for me photography is more about creativity than remembering a set of rules to make your work conform to the same formula as a everyone else who picks up a camera and hopes to create a masterpiece.

Also the question you asked SM about background, I would suggest a little of both. While it can look very professional to have a plain backdrop, it does sometimes look too professional when trying to create an intimate mood for someone close to you. If you have a setting which allows for blurring of the background, I would try that and see if you like the effect, then do a few with a staged backdrop. You can also provide a more definite focus on the subject by playing around with your settings which can change light effects and how they interplay in the finished product.

Catalina

 

[tooplay2luv]

HI, i'm hoping that someone out there can help me.

Master has requested that i take some pictures of myself that are tastefully erotic and obviously center on the Master/sub theme. i know he wants to see me in His collar

i have some ideas, most of which were less than successful and so am looking for any pointers from any point of view. i hope to be bale to give him a slection that i take over time. He has only just started training me so i am not clear on His specific likes & dislikes.

Here are some of the specific questions i have asked myself but i know that there are many more answers out there. Please keep in mind that apart from 1 very good friend who is happy to help me, these will be self-portraits (tripod & camera deal). i do have a nice camera which makes it easier

How can i get the best lighting?
What should i wear?
Are there any posing/positioning suggestions?
Suggested props/toys?

i can't wait to hear all the words of wisdom

First and foremost a GOOD CAMERA, GREAT LIGHTING.....What you see throught the view finder/ lens isn't what your getting. Understand file types, ie. JPG, (lrg, med ,small) Tiff, Raw If I were you I would start shooting JPG lrg. Also try to balance your computer monitor so the flesh tones are correct. No one want to see the yellow or green skinned images....and please don't say it's art. It's a file in need of color correction. If your shooting film, we really need to talk. Any questions about photography, I would be more then happy to help you. It's what I do who I am....

 

[TeachMeSir]

Thanks Everyone

Tooplay, i have just upgraded my camera to Cannon 40D (however i don't own the external flash as yet, and would probably purchase ring flash or at least one that can be converted when i do). I do use the JPG lge. One day i hope to be able to know more about enhancement software & shoot in Raw.

I have been looing into setting the white balance, mainly from an underwater photography persepective as that is something i would love to perfect a little bit more (currently using an Olympus with an u/w housing). i'm not sure what you mean by balancing my computer monitor but i'll look it up in one of my many books of "destructions".

I did find that i was able to adjust the warmth & color saturation with my very basic programme once i had it on the computer, but i had used a pinque light for effect & so it it an unusual look but i am happy with it as far as now i know "when i do this..... that happens... " type learning process.

What did you mean by "don't say it's art"?

 

[TeachMeSir]

I'd like some to look back on someday and say woo I was hot. Of course, I know I'll be saying shit like, I look hot in this shot due to the lighting and angle . . . or focusing on the one flaw I can see.

I'm all bad that way.

That is where i need other help..... i have been getting a lot of great tips about using my camera, but how do i look "hot" and "sexy" and even "submissive"? That i need help on also. Anyone have any tips? i know it will come down to personal taste etc but i'm starting from scratch (or at least a very vanilla point of view).

 

[Betticus]

Try Kodak's guide to better pictures.

http://wwwca.kodak.com/CA/en/consumer/guideToBetterPictures/eStores/index.jhtml

 

[midwestyankee]

I know what you mean. I want mine to look like art, not porn.

Let me know if you ever want a second opinion.

 

[MasterPhoenix]

IF your camera has a burst setting where it can take multiple exposures (often 3-5) that would help as it would buy you a bit of extra time... then you can look at the series of pics and see which you like best.

As a photographer, I have to say that self portraits are a bitch. I second Cat's suggestion of a remote, if possible...

One thing that could help as well as that many cameras you can run the outs to the AV jacks on your TV, and that way you can see your shot much better.

Other than that, I am afraid I am not much help, as self portraits are not my speciality.

I do wish you good luck.

 

[ammre]

well they seem to have gotten down the how to take a photo part...

Things I notice...
Content...

Stuff. Where are you taking your picture? Is it in your bed? Did you make up your bed to be sexy, but forget the box of tissues on the nightstand? Little things like that can make a good photo turn into an Ehh ok photo. Often if you're trying to do something more erotic, you're focusing on the body and one or two pieces of stuff. You'll want to find some floor or a wall or a corner that's relatively clutter free. Windows are also nice but pay attention to whats outside of them. If you're overlooking the broken lawn mower and the trash cans, maybe shoot at a different angle... tripods are fantastic, gorilla pods are really good too when you're trying for strange angles.

you.
Yes, you! Take note of details. Use the leave in conditioner and the eyeliner. Embrace a mirror for a half an hour or so before hand and think about expressions, fist do them as big as possible, moving your mouth, your eyes, your cheeks, your eyebrows, then slowly work them down to just the tiniest of a change. Then spend some time learning your body. Which angles are flattering, standing up straight, but he likes it when you bow your head? Is he fond of your neck? your legs? the curve of your back? Think about how you can play on those while showing your obedience or whatever... Being submissive can be done with beauty and grace. Also not all of you has to be in the shot, and erotic does not necessarily mean genitals or breasts... You can have your neck half in the frame with the collar on, your fingers just lightly brushing the collar and you head tilted back slightly with your mouth open as if in extacy, and your eyes closed. If you want xxx parts, maybe a leash on the collar dangling past the swell of your breast or the v of your legs. Imagining the Camera is your partner helps... Maybe place the camera higher then you are when kneeling or sitting on the floor. Focus on your face and leave your body in the blurrier background so you can tell the viewer is in a higher position, then just look into the lense and imagine all the feeling of you being Theirs. Bear your soul to it.

Really It's damn awkard to be infront of a camera. It's even more so when you look at the pictures after and think, God these look silly! I promise though, it's not that bad once you get use to it. Just relax and take a million pictures... the more pictures you have the larger of a selection you get. I'll run 50 pictures, and maybe 2 will see the light of day...

 

[SweetErika]

When we got interested in erotic photography, we spent a fair amount of time looking at others' pics to see what worked, what didn't and what could work for us in terms of positions, angles, lighting, props, backgrounds, effects, editing, etc. This really helped give us some starting points and things to avoid, so we didn't waste a lot of time with trial and error.

This is a great thread with tons of beautiful photos

Here's the section on art and photography in the library sticky where I found that thread, and you may find some others to your liking.

You might also google 'erotic photos', 'BDSM erotic photos' and similar terms to see what you can find. I wouldn't spend much time on the AmPics forum here. While there are some threads with tasteful, well-done pics, they're pretty rare.

In addition to what others have said about backgrounds and such, we've found our best pics usually incorporate the following:

- The camera being higher than the model and pointing downward (this gets rid of a lot of awkward shadows and maximizes the positives)

- Using the B&W and/or Sepia settings on the CAMERA, rather than trying to convert color photos with editing software (BTW, GIMP is an excellent, free, powerful program if you don't have something like Photoshop) results in much crisper, higher quality pics

- B&W and Sepia in general tend to allow the eye to focus on the subject, hide a multitude of flaws/problems and come out looking more classy, professional and more artistic

- Often looking away from the camera, slightly at an angle or into the distance produces awesome results

- Leaving something to the imagination through body positioning, lingerie or strategically placed cloth or props often ups the "class" factor significantly

- Small cushions, folded towels, etc., that are strategically placed can go a long way in making the body look its best, especially when on a bed, couch, etc.

Ideas and props:
- Lengths of rope of different thicknesses
- Lengths of chain
- Flowers, esp. roses w/ thorns
- Back and front shots while laying on your side (for the front, you might strategically place sheer fabric, scarves, etc.)
- A flogger splayed over your back, ass, breasts, etc.; same goes for a riding crop, or the tip of one
- Clothespins
- Leather lacing, pieces of leather
- Holding a paddle or having it cover certain parts
- Use ice cubes in creative ways
- Write a message on yourself in lipstick
- Wrap yourself in christmas lights or fabric
- Bound hands
- Handcuffs
- Saran/Plastic wrap
- Fingernails, scratch marks
- Taper candles, with wax dripped on you (do it from a good height and use white, unscented, paraffin candles so you don't burn yourself; test on the inside of your forearm first!)
- Lay on your back, looking over at the camera
- On all fours
- Head down, eyes downcast, kneeling, kneeling with knees spread (perhaps with your hands [maybe even bound] covering your crotch, to keep it from looking porn-ish), and other "submissive" positions

 

[YourCaptor]

.....

 

[catalina_francisco]

To carry on a thought from Sweet Erica, you might get some great ideas from Akasha's Digital Art thread in the AMF. It is not your usual gratuitous genitals shot thread and has to be one of the classiest and most talented Lit has seen.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2277/1620516394_9db4080930_t.jpg Catalina

 

[ammre]

- Using the B&W and/or Sepia settings on the CAMERA, rather than trying to convert color photos with editing software (BTW, GIMP is an excellent, free, powerful program if you don't have something like Photoshop) results in much crisper, higher quality pics

Awesome post but that one point I disagree with. Taking your photos in color first then converting later using the various choices in even a basic photo editor is a better idea partly becasue it allows you more control ont he exposure etc, but also bcause it gives you the option to have color and black and white. You can always go B&W from color, you can't go color form black and white... well you can but it take photoshop and a long time.

 

[SweetErika]

Awesome post but that one point I disagree with. Taking your photos in color first then converting later using the various choices in even a basic photo editor is a better idea partly becasue it allows you more control ont he exposure etc, but also bcause it gives you the option to have color and black and white. You can always go B&W from color, you can't go color form black and white... well you can but it take photoshop and a long time.

You're right about color being more versatile, and I'm certainly not trying to argue with you about that, or anything else. I will try to explain why I said what I did above, though.

When we're taking erotic photos, we're often aiming for an entire set of B&W and Sepia alone, however. That is, we KNOW for certain we DON'T want color, and NEVER will in those particular photos. If there's any doubt, we'll take duplicates, alternating color and B&W or Sepia, or take all color and deal with the loss of quality that comes from converting them in a photo editor. But when we go into it knowing we want B&W and Sepia, we never say, "Oh, it's too bad we don't have a color version of that" because we know the B&W is FAR better than the color could ever have been.

It's very much like putting B&W film in the camera - when you're taking certain pics, sometimes you just KNOW you want the result in B&W because you're going for a certain look or know your subject won't look as great in color. We also make some adjustments to the background, makeup and props we use if we're doing B&W and Sepia, so we've found it can be easier to do those and color sets separately.

However, my main point was simply that if you're aiming for B&W pics specifically, see if your camera has a B&W setting because, like ours, those pics may come out much better than the color pics you convert to B&W with software later. Maybe there won't be a huge difference, but it's worth experimenting with because it could be enough of a difference to inspire whole sets of B&W pics, as it did for us!