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Apogee Photo Magazine

The Glamour Photographer's Notebook
by Gene Copas

Basic Outdoor Glamour

I am approached frequently by young models that need good photos for their portfolio.  Suzannah is one such example.  A great look, exuding sunny charm and natural glamour.  When working with young models especially, but with any model, I invite then to bring along an escort.  I usually suggest a mother, a female family member, or a female friend.  And, in spite of what other photographers think, I do allow boyfriends or husbands as escorts.  If the model wants them to come along, then I insist that the escort call me and we discuss what is going to happen during the shoot.  This gives me the opportunity to sense any problems prior to the shoot.  If the model is under 18, I insist that a parent or legal guardian be present.  In Suzannah's case, she is over 18, but her mother was her escort.  I always position the escort out of "eyeline" contact, and sometimes in another room.  This is discussed ahead of time as well.  I like to work on a "no surprises" basis. 

When shooting outdoor glamour, I am fond of using the automatic fill flash feature available with most 35mm cameras.  I use a Canon EOS 630 with a Canon EZ430 flash.  This allows me to program in a + or - fill flash ratio.   

I like to pose my models with their back to the sun.  This allows the sun to become the hair and back light, separating the model from the background.  In this photo, I set my fill flash for +1/stop.  Some of the bright sunlight filtered through to give the natural outdoor feel.   

When shooting outdoors, I like to have my models in "earthtones" clothing - blues, browns and greens. 

When you have a natural beauty like Suzannah, it is hard to get a bad photo. 

Who is Gene Copas?

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