alexandermils

Portrait of a beautiful blonde girl holding cat

Portrait of a beautiful blonde girl holding cat

Portrait of a beautiful blonde girl holding cat.

Portrait of a beautiful blonde girl holding cat.
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NIKON D7000

settings

Aperture f/3.2 ISO 100 Shutter 1/160 Focal Length 500/10

upload_date

Mar, 2016

Views

1308

Likes

+177

Awards

Contest Finalist in Vintage And Classic Photo Contest

Featured

Staff Favorite

Peer Award

+87

Superb Composition

+11

Absolute Masterpiece

Top Choice

Superior Skill

Outstanding Creativity

Magnificent Capture

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Behind The Lens

Location

The photo was taken in the courtyard of a small but stunning pizzeria in the proximity of my house. Never had I thought I would find such an impeccable place to take a photo of this kind in the close vicinity of my house. Not to mention the staff who were more than helpful and attentive. They were all genuinely enthusiastic and went a long way to help us. I thank them a lot for their tremendous support and kindness.

Time

We started approximately at noon and finished at around 4 pm. The day was scorching hot so we had to take breaks to refresh and cool a bit.

Lighting

I used an i 80x120 Softbox with one speedlight in it. I used it mostly because the whole terrace was covered with ivy and it was quite dark although it was noon. I was trying to fill the shadows and give her face that natural well lit summer glow.

Equipment

I used NIKON D7000 with 50mm 1.8D, not so modern lens, but it was extra sharp. The camera was handheled.

Inspiration

The idea was to recreate the atmosphere and style that prevailed at the beginning of 1950s. The photo shooting was pre-planned and the girl herself found the outfit, while her hair and makeup were provided by her sister and her mother. Interestingly, the cat that is seen in the picture is from the neighbor's yard, and while we were taking pictures it found its way in and demanded being cuddled, it was not the part of our plan but there it was so we used it. Our little uninvited friend definitely refreshed this atmosphere and made the picture even more romantic and sensual.

Editing

I always do. I used different techniques to smooth out the skin, however frequency separation is my favorite. I used Nik Efex Pro 2 to obtain the retro look and feel, and dodge and burn techniques to place more accent on the model.

In my camera bag

All I have is Canon 7D with Tamron 17-50mm 2.8, and Canon 28mm 1.8, 3 speedlights (Canon 600EX-RT), I always have flash triggers (hardly ever do I shoot with flash on the camera), Lens ND filters, color gels. My studio equipment makes a long list, therefore I will cut the long story short by telling you that I own my favorite deep hexadecagon umbrella softbox 150cm, bunch of studio lights, light stands and many more.

Feedback

This photo was planned only one day in advance. However, this is of paramount importance; plan everything you can in advance, notwithstanding there will occasionally be the unexpected surprises which can make your masterpiece even better. It is a strenuous job but your effort will pay off sooner or later. What is also essential to have in mind is that the first 100,000 photos you take are your worst photos, nevertheless, do not stop shooting if that is what you really love doing and if you have a flair for capturing sensational sights. Nothing compares to that warm feeling of overwhelming satisfaction while looking at your latest photo realizing it is even more spectacular and striking than you remember it to be.

See more amazing photos, follow alexandermils

alexandermils

alexandermils

Portrait of a beautiful blonde girl holding cat

Portrait of a beautiful blonde girl holding cat.

Behind The Lens

See more amazing photos, follow alexandermils

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