Full Figured Models

[Jon Foster]

Are there any tips for shooting full figured models in a "glamour" setting? I've never done it before but I'm assuming it's not too much different than anyone else. Just look for the position that works best with the figure and clothing?

Jon.

[tfiorda]

You've got it. Also shoot a bit above the subject. This will cause the chin to be higher and pull the next a bit tighter making it look thinner. Use poses that don't enlarge the body and make sure all angle are flattering.

Hope this helps.

Tony...

[Jon Foster]

Thanks for the input Tony.

Jon.

[henleg]

Jon, this is a thread that I refer everyone to for the more curvacious woman. It's invaluable!

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=286827

[Jon Foster]

Thanks for the link.

Jon.

[airfrogusmc]

Short light...

[FeXL]

Jon:

Read this post a while back, wanted to comment.

I think that there are two ways to shoot full figured models. However, you need to find out what kind of mindset your model has.

Does she see herself as a BBW (big, beautiful woman) or is she shy & inhibited about herself?

Watch how she carries herself when she walks. Is her head held high? Is she brimming with confidence? When she walks into a room does she take over or does she try to blend with the surroundings? Does she look you square in the eye when you talk about a glamour session? Take a couple of test shots, show them to her & read her reaction & response.

If she considers herself a BBW, then photograph her in all of her big bodied goodness.

If not, then use all the little lighting, posing and camera angle tricks you can to minimize her size.

A wonderful image comes from being able to read your subject and portray them in a fashion which reveals their inner self, not necessarily their outer shape.

[Jon Foster]

Jon:

Read this post a while back, wanted to comment.

I think that there are two ways to shoot full figured models. However, you need to find out what kind of mindset your model has.

Does she see herself as a BBW (big, beautiful woman) or is she shy & inhibited about herself?

Watch how she carries herself when she walks. Is her head held high? Is she brimming with confidence? When she walks into a room does she take over or does she try to blend with the surroundings? Does she look you square in the eye when you talk about a glamour session? Take a couple of test shots, show them to her & read her reaction & response.

If she considers herself a BBW, then photograph her in all of her big bodied goodness.

If not, then use all the little lighting, posing and camera angle tricks you can to minimize her size.

A wonderful image comes from being able to read your subject and portray them in a fashion which reveals their inner self, not necessarily their outer shape.

FeXL, thanks for the reply. I appreciate the feedback and the wake-up call. I've been looking at this shoot with a very narrow mind. I will think about what you said and try to see things from another persons viewpoint.

Thanks again, Jon.

[Grace]

With fuller models I work more with natural light because you get more natural shadows that can 'hide' the extra.

Shoot from above.
I almost always have the models (brides/models/whatever) kinda push one hip to the side, creating more of an S shape with the body. And a quick adjustment to the shoulders. These little tweaks will work most anytime positioning a model. Standing, layin on the bed, sittin on the bed- it just keeps their body from being so 'straight'.

Good luck! :)

[Pearlallica]

It's a challenge, especially when the model is your client and they want to portrayed in the best light. Be careful of the angle you're using on the subject's face. A heavier chin can hidden this way quite effectively. Diffused light is good as well which would soften the look of skin blemishes (ie. cellulite) as opposed to harsh shadows caused by linear light. My best full figure images consist of portraits which of course focus on the eyes, hair, etc. and bring out a subject's character. Full body portraits are best on an angle as face on would emphasize the figure's width. Lens shoice is another obvious choice (150mm range for compression as opposed to 20mm!!!) These are just my learned lessons. I'm curious to visit henleg's link for more techniques.

[David John]

I recommend Aerial photography...just kidding.

[Jon Foster]

Thanks for the input guys. I'm missing 6 different shoots this week due to the holiday season schedule. Four of which were full bodied models. Maybe during the next big round of shoots...

Jon.

[ThisOldHag]

Are there any tips for shooting full figured models in a "glamour" setting? I've never done it before but I'm assuming it's not too much different than anyone else. Just look for the position that works best with the figure and clothing?

Jon.

This is what I taught models... maybe you'll find something here you could use.

Make your face look thinner
· Tilting your face at a slight angle will make it look thinner.
· If you have a large nose - lift your chin slightly.
· If your neck is less than perfect, try craning your neck forward.
· Experiment with looks other than the full on cheesy grin. Try a Mona Lisa-like hint of a smile, cheeky arched eyebrows look, or even a wink. It will add movement and personality to your face and make you appear less static.
· Keep your chin tilted slightly up.
· Swallowing makes your neck look longer and more graceful.
· Look into the camera but don't stare.
· Take your glasses off to avoid glare and reflections from the flash.
· Putting your hair up and wearing long earrings will give the appearance of a longer neck.
· And, if you've been caught at a 'I must really wash my hair' moment, pull it back and top it off with a pair of sunglasses resting on top of your head for that just-got-off-the beach look.

Make your body look slimmer
· Face the camera side on to minimise your stomach (pulling in those muscles at the same time!).
· One shoulder pointing forward will show off your figure to its best advantage.
· If you are sitting cross your legs at your ankles. Your thighs and calves will look slimmer.
· If (for some strange reason) you know your bum is going to be in the photo, tense and lift it for a few moments, but remember to keep your face looking natural at the same time!
· If you know you are going to be photographed – fake a tan!
· If at all possible, stand rather than sit.

For a planned photo
· This gives you the opportunity to plan a little in advance.
· Wearing dark colours, especially on areas you are less than happy with, can help slim and hide them.
· Avoid anything too stark and dark next to your face (black, navy blues, browns, and dark greens for instance) as this will drag light away from your face, making you look washed out - and doing nothing to hide any less than perfect skin.
· White highlights skin imperfections.
· Yellow is rarely a flattering colour.
· Jewellery reflects the light and adds colour and interest.
· Choose something bright and colourful (but not too patterned or busy) that will reflect light onto your face.
· Don't experiment with new make-up or hair just before you know you're going to have your photo taken.
· Make up should be light – tinted moisturiser is a great choice for glowing summer skin.

Flattering colours
· It's a known fact that darker colours are more slimming and that brighter colours can draw the eye to the bits you like.
· Wear monotone but dress it up with a coloured scarf in different ways.
· Make sure you wear a colour that you like being in - ask yourself 'do I feel good in this colour?' If you like red, it'll be a 'happy' colour and you'll blossom.
· When having your photo taken, be sure to avoid large patterns on outer garments (its okay on scarves and blouses); and never wear thin stripes on any garment at a photo-shoots.

Accessories
· A coloured scarf or stunning bold necklace will give your face the attention it deserves.
· Make something of your delicate parts, as it's rare that the whole body is under scrutiny, unless you are a paparazzi celebrity.
· If you have a slim face, emphasize it. Be experimental with hair and make-up. Most of the time we are sitting down, so people aren't looking at a long shot of you.
· If you have lovely wrists and hands make something of them. At a dinner party when you are sitting down, it's what people will notice. Try lovely rings and nail varnish.

Don't waist time
· Clothes that are tapered in at the waistline can accentuate the stomach. The mistake people make is belting things in.
· Loose transparent clothes with something tight underneath give a flattering look that de-emphasises weight.
· If you haven't got a waistline, don't try and pull it in to make one.
· If you got a larger stomach, put the emphasis on the hip, by putting a sash there, like a blouson.

If you've got it, flaunt it
· Show your best bits with confidence and make them stand out with pieces that fit well. Too tight is not good whatever your size. If you feel good you will look good. Try a loose jacket and experiment with pinning it in different ways - drape over the bust, or do it up lower.
· Loose cuts that flow, with a jacket, are best - don't hold yourself in and concentrate on the bits that look great, like beautiful make-up and hair. With a jacket people won't know if you are sticking out or in.
· With bigger legs, don't wear mini skirts. Wear trousers in either a shorter or longer length.

The fabric
This season, floating chiffon is in - make the most of it and wear loose kaftans that make you feel good.

[Dark Wanderer]

I have been waiting for this to come up. Great info, very helpful.

[j2photography]

this has some nice info!
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[sanity1082]

great info and tips. thank you for sharing

[ThisOldHag]

Another tip I forgot to add: Take some time out directly before the shoot and speak to your model about her best features and those she'd prefer to play down i.e. if you're working with a lady that has a bit of a tummy tell her to suck it in, stand tall, and push her bust out... she can indicate her readiness for the photo to be taken by counting down. i.e. one, two, three, suck in, shoot, and relax. Constantly assure your model that she's beautiful, and that she's working the camera well. Your model will thank you for it and the results will speak for themselves.