Making Every Side Your Good Side: Photography Tips for Adult Shoots
Holly Randall photography
Capturing the best shots from your model during an adult photography shoot hinges on a blend of preparation, communication, and creativity. On day one of the XBIZ Show in Los Angeles, we got to hear from some of the best in the world of adult photography, offering their tips for getting the money shot.
Moderated by Laura Desiree, the panel featured industry legends including Holly Randall, V Hagen (ObsessionX), Alphonso of Mad Creativity, and Natasha Inamorta.
Noted industry photographers share tips and tricks on everything from gear to lighting, in this workshop designed to help creators cover all the angles and elevate their photo game.
End Goal of the Image
Always consider the purpose of the image, whether it's for personal, promotional, or commercial use. Do you need to collect Safe For Social images? Knowing where the images will end up will help you better plan for your shoots and ensure you’re not wasting time on set.
Model Comfort and Confidence
Holly Randall: Comfort starts in preproduction. Share call sheets and expectations a week in advance. Ensure the set is welcoming with necessities like snacks and robes. Select a positive, professional crew.
Alphonso: Maintain open communication about the shoot’s purpose and concept. Preparation ensures the model feels valued and empowered.
Natasha: Consent-based interactions are crucial. Compliments and addressing insecurities help models feel confident.
V Hagen: Meet models beforehand and create a relaxed atmosphere with music and a positive vibe.
Holly Randall Photography
Communication with Models
Be transparent, respectful, and collaborative.
Build confidence by showing the best shots during the shoot.
Avoid harsh criticism; frame feedback constructively.
Storytelling in Photography
Tailor stories to the client’s or project’s needs. Collaborate on ideas while using technical skills to enhance their vision.
Natasha: Know the audience to choose appropriate locations, lighting, and shots.
Holly Randall: Scout locations carefully to match the story and avoid disruptions from owners.
Challenges in Adult Photography
V: Use lighting creatively to avoid overexposure and create intrigue. Leverage natural light.
Natasha: Be upfront about budget limitations and manage client expectations.
Holly Randall: Creative limitations in client shoots can be disheartening; manage location logistics carefully.
Alphonso: Plan time efficiently to avoid exceeding location rentals.
Getting Models to Appear Natural
Encourage breaks to relax the model.
Capture candid moments by pretending not to shoot.
Avoid over-posing and guide with encouragement.
Show the best shots during the session to build excitement and confidence.
Gear Recommendations
Use tools that suit your style and workflow; remember the lens matters more than the camera.
Recommended Gear:
Canon 1.5
70-200mm lenses
Carl Zeiss 50mm
Prime lenses
Phones are viable; consider upgrading or using accessories like lenses and grips.
Favorite Apps: Lightroom (AI features) and Capture One for editing and retouching.
Retouching and Delivery
Focus on enhancing natural beauty, not over-editing.
Color and lighting are key to making images stand out.
Be timely in delivering the final work to clients.
Outsource tasks you’re not skilled in using platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
Key Takeaways
Preparation, communication, and attention to detail are essential for successful shoots.
Balancing creativity with practical considerations ensures a polished final product.
Prioritize lighting and exposure during the shoot to minimize post-production work.
Establishing a comfortable atmosphere is essential; when models feel at ease and confident, their true personalities can shine through. Utilizing effective posing techniques and experimenting with different angles can also elevate the visual impact of the images. Additionally, engaging in open dialogue with the model about their preferences and incorporating their ideas can lead to more authentic and dynamic shots.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a collaborative environment where both the photographer and model can express their artistic visions, resulting in striking imagery that resonates.
