Pascal Baetens. Nude Photography. The Art and The Craft. 2007

114 exploring techniques

The body as a landscape

these images were realized using a telephoto zoom lens. notice how the

backlighting gives a very graphic effect, dramatizing the forms of the model.

i tend to measure the light from the lightest part of the body to create deep,

dark shadows may use a directed spotlight when i want hard light.

abstract close-ups

i love working in close-up—it’s so easy to create really

interesting images. it’s also an ideal way to start photographing

nudes as you don’t need to worry so much about directing

your model. once he or she is in a comfortable position you

can take your time experimenting with lighting, perspective,

and framing. it’s a good idea to have your model on a seat

or bed with wheels so that you can turn it around easily, and

if you are using artificial lights it helps if these are moveable

too. When light follows the main direction of the pose it has

a “caressing” light and shadow effect. Move around your

model, changing your relation to the direction of light to

make the shadows more or less pronounced.