"Is this type of photography only done in your studio?" 

    Location is really not an issue with portraiture of any kind.  As long as we are not traveling 60 miles to get to a "place", we can shoot pictures anywhere.  If your choice of portrait is swimsuit or leisure, then a lake or pool would be a logical place.  If you want artistic nude's done in a wooded area, a family members acreage could be a spot.  Many areas are secluded or open enough that they can provide you with the "look" you want.

I have found that a model needs to be comfortable in his/her surroundings.  Most of the "studio" shoots I have done are in a persons home around familiar things.  These are the easiest and most fun to do.  Set-ups and take downs are quick and easy and allows the model to suggest pose ideas with familiar items around them.  It also makes clothing and make up changes in the comfort and privacy of their own home a big part of the session.  Yet the studio can be a nice change and more private if you feel your session requires the utmost in privacy.

    Where the pictures are taken is strictly up to you as the model.  In every session I have with me a very capable assistant (same gender as the model) who can help with clothing adjustments, make-up advice, hair and accessory display.  If you're more comfortable in your home or apartment surroundings, then by all means, let's shoot there.  Should the location or setting not be acceptable, then we should reschedule and try for another place and time.

    There are some things you should consider as long we are on the subject:

• Keep the number of "on-lookers" to a minimum.  Seventeen people watching you have your picture taken can get a bit nerve racking.  We recommend having only one other person, preferably of the same sex, with you during the shoot unless even one person would make you nervous.
• Be prepared for the day and time of the photo session.  Be on time.  Have your clothing picked out the night before.  Have your hair done (if you desire) at least two days prior.
• Read the pre-shoot literature (which I will send or provide to you one-week before our appointment) and be ready to ask questions prior to the day of the session.  There's nothing like having to make adjustments during the session due to a problem that could occur because of a misunderstanding.
• Out of studio sessions (at your residence) require a fairly large amount of free space in a living room or den with at least one vacant wall that we can place backdrops against.  If you can, move any unwanted furniture out of the room beforehand.
• Stay in touch.  Our e-mail address at ppphotog@surewest.net is monitored several dozen times throughout the weekday.  Don't be afraid that you're asking too many questions or you feel like you're being a pest.  Our goal is to make you feel comfortable throughout the photo shoot.

      

                    What images should be in a model's portfolio?  

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