How to work in a hired Pro studio.

Using a Pro Studio

By Barry Graham

OK so the big day has arrived, you have hired a model, and a studio and you're feeling a bit nervous about what to expect and what to do. This month I am going to put your mind at rest as it really is 'easy peasy' studio.

First let me make some suggestions. It's a always a good idea to inspect the studio before you book. Of course it's tempting to see an advert for a studio with all advertised trimmings, coffee fountain, changing rooms, make up area, but trust me what they say you get and what you get can be two entirely different things. So as you have perused the adverts, picked a studio, why not actually go there to make your booking? They should be happy to show you around.

Plan your shoot on what they have available. Will you be using a room set, are you keen to try a real studio shoot with just the backdrop. Be sure of what extra charges are incurred. If you use the paper colour roll backdrop and roll it round onto the floor for the model to stand on be aware you will be charged per metre. Heel spikes, dirty marks. There might be other charges, such as laundry if you use some studio props. Just be aware.

Obliviously it's not so easy with the model, but having been a regular reader you will have asked everything you need to. Arrive early as this will give you the chance to prepare. Make sure you have with you, spare camera batteries, lens cleaning cloth, and all your equipment. Every studio I have attended I have managed to get in at least ten minutes early. Do remember though that if you pay for two hours this will include your set up and clean up time. If it takes your model 45 minutes to put her war paint on, then that's 45 minutes shooting time gone. I always suggest beginners send the model off to prepare herself and then get the studio guy just to run through using the flash and flash meter. Also using the back drops, or whatever you want to use.

When your model returns you should be ready to begin work. Everything you need to know about lighting the scene has been covered in light metering in a previous issue. Just remember you are the client and all help and assistance will be forthcoming from the studio staff. (No it really is like that, they want you to come back again and again.)

Remember though that different studios have different ways of working. If you intend to do nude work and your model is shy, then really you have to book a secluded studio. (This is the norm) Some studios are vast and split up into units, but without privacy. This is so they can make one large space to accommodate a vast shoot. That's why I repeat it is always as well to visit before you book.

Click for full size Image

It's your studio time. Use the subtle lighting, learn your trade and take pictures like those below. It's subjective, but I would aim to produce work lit and posed as below rather than the flat pictures above.

I have one major piece of advice. It's to do with firing the flashes. When you book tell the guy what camera you will be using and ask how will the flashes be fired. Modern cameras don't have a flash sync plug anymore. I cannot see you having any problems, so relax, enjoy, and best of all practice and improve.

RETURN

It's your studio time. Use the subtle lighting, learn your trade and take pictures like those below. It's subjective, but I would aim to produce work lit and posed as below rather than the flat pictures above.