Erotic Photography

[brianmay]

Hi guys,

I'm interested in starting erotic photography but I have no idea how to start! I've been doing photography for a while now, but I'm getting a bit bored of pictures of trees, flowers and the like.

I just don't really know where to begin! Has anyone here done any erotic photography before? How do you get into it?

How do photographers get models and how do they make models feel relaxed comfortable? Have you ever modelled for an erotic photographer yourself? Would you ever model?

 

[SweetErika]

Hi guys,

I'm interested in starting erotic photography but I have no idea how to start! I've been doing photography for a while now, but I'm getting a bit bored of pictures of trees, flowers and the like.

I just don't really know where to begin! Has anyone here done any erotic photography before? How do you get into it?

How do photographers get models and how do they make models feel relaxed comfortable? Have you ever modelled for an erotic photographer yourself? Would you ever model?

I'd suggest starting with a class, or multiple classes, preferably that focus on photographing people and nudes.

You might also contact local photographers who do nude/erotic/kink (google is a good place to start), tell them you'd like to start doing this as a hobby (I'm assuming that's the case) and ask if you can ask them some questions and maybe even meet or watch them do a shoot sometime so you can get some pointers.

Study this type of photography online, and see if you can pick out good positions, lighting, etc. There also may be some websites and books that give pointers for the novice.

Classes, as well as friends might be a good place to start finding subjects. I've seen students and professionals advertise on Craigslist before. Kink-friendly and nudist organizations could be another resource. If you're going to advertise, I'd suggest inviting ALL types to participate at their comfort level (people may not want to take off anything until they trust you), rather than looking for specific genders, ethnicities, body types, etc. Welcome couples/pairs - women may not feel safe if their male partner/friend isn't invited.

Be clear about what you're going to do with the pics (e.g. give them to the subject), and you may want to set up a website with samples of your work as well as have references available to anyone who's interested once you get a couple of shoots under your belt (of course you need to ask people if you can use them as a reference).

I think a lot of comfort comes from trust and a photographer who's confident, competent and professional. Good communication and positive feedback are paramount. Think about how you can distinguish yourself from the creep who wants to take pics for masturbation material or to put online.

 

[M's girl]

I don't think of myself as quite the model-type but if I ever would want to have my (erotic) pictures taken, I would find a photographer myself, one that has established himself as such.. one I can trust and is a professional.

There are many of them who show their work on the internet. One of my favorites is Ken Marcus.... not that I would ever be Marcus-material

 

[U luv Isabelle]

I've never modeled for a pro before but if he asked I would in a heartbeat!

 

[Trajal]

I asked a mate of mine who does semi-pro erotic photography. He just made sure he bought a bunch of magazines about it first, got some good kit and read up on everything he could find.

As far as the actual photography is concerned, you'll need to hire a studio first, then book the model (get one either direct (dubious) or get one from an agency). Most of them will request to be accompanied. They may also check that you have hired a studio (they get a lot of weirdos) which is why you have to do that first, and well in advance.

Think about the type of pictures you want to take first, and ask the modelling agency or model if they are comfortable with this *before* you book them. If you get into the studio and suddenly spring on a full frontal request then you could find yourself alone pretty quickly if they weren't prepared for it.

Remember to keep it professional. They are professionals and will not take lightly to smutty comments, even said in nervousness. Treat them with respect. Another thing he suggested is to be totally honest when you talk to the model first. Explain that you've not done this before, even ask for advice - she may have some good ideas from her experience.

Good luck, be sure to let us know how you got on!

 

[TheleHun]

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