First TFP: Pointers Anyone???

[a.saliga]

Next week I'll be doing my first TFP (time for prints, well in this case CD) shoot with a local model.

I will say that I feel like there is a lot of pressure on me to get everything right. I'm looking for general tips so that I don't look like a total amateur.

And a somewhat random question...what is the general practice in regards to tripods when shooting a model. This is not going to be studio work, so I would assume that a tripod wouldn't be used. But then again, I know there are those purists who say that you should always use one.

[jdepould]

And a somewhat random question...what is the general practice in regards to tripods when shooting a model. This is not going to be studio work, so I would assume that a tripod wouldn't be used. But then again, I know there are those purists who say that you should always use one.

Go with whatever you're more comfortable shooting, not like it makes a difference to the model. I usually bring my tripod and do a mix of hand-held and tripod shots. It can be sort of difficult to get some of the more creative shots when you're attached to a tripod, but it's easy enough to pop the camera off quickly and do whatever it is that you have in mind.

[Sime™]

i'm doing my first this week as well... good luck to us eh!

I'm not going to use a tripod, mine is indoors and with a little bit of lighting (two flashes and a bit of reflector, maybe...)

Make sure you know your kit, make sure you know how you want to have your subject posed / standing / sitting... having him / her sit around could leave you with a bored expression on his / her face :)

- but then, you know media back to front - sorted!

Good luck, look forward to seeing some of your shots!...

Sime

[Saralonde]

Can you go to the place you are going to be shooting at ahead of time to scout out posing areas and lighting? You might even be able to take some test shots with a friend.

BTW, nice new avatar!

[smc1377]

I've learned that to get the best pictures that both of you will like, you (the photographer) have to do some research to learn how to pose your model. If the model is experienced, they will probably know about poses, but if not, you're gonna have to tell her how to stand, how to lean, how to turn, where to look, what to do with her hand, what to do with her shoulders, etc.

Or else they'll come out looking amateurish. I believe there's some threads on here about how to pose. You can also find lots of stuff online about posing.

I got lucky with my first TFP, the gal was an art school student in NYC who was very familiar with posing so the pictures turned out great. My second gal wasn't experienced at all and so it took a lot of coaching to get decent shots.

[a.saliga]

Can you go to the place you are going to be shooting at ahead of time to scout out posing areas and lighting? BTW, nice new avatar!

Well she already has locations in mind. I'm at a slight disadvantage since I'm only a student here and don't know the best places to shoot.

Regarding the avatar...thanks...I figured it was time to go with a bit more mature look than the flying hair, haha. That pic was almost a year old anyways.