ViewBug community member Alexorciser is a portrait photographer currently based in Las Vegas, NV. "My professional goal as a photographer is to make my clients' best look even better". Here is something we can learn from Alexorciser about the techniques and story behind this awarded photo.
What inspired you to take this photo?
I was inspired by the work of Jake Hicks, a famous photographer known for his multiple gel use in his photos. I browsed a ton of his photos and decided I wanted to try because all of his looked so cool. His images just kept making me say "wow" haha. I wanted to see what I could do with the stuff I have.
What equipment did you use?
So, for this shot, I used my Canon T5i, an 18-55mm kit lens, and two Broncolor Siros L 800w wireless strobes with a red/pink gel on the rim/background light and a blue as the key light.
Where did you take this photo?
This photo was taken in a boutique hotel called The Artisan, which is located off of The Strip in Las Vegas, NV. I love that place.
Anything worth sharing about lighting?
My main goal was to experiment with multiple gels at one time. I came across some work that inspired me to give it a go so my girlfriend (pictured) and I went to this hotel and spent a few hours trying different things. It took some adjustments, but one we had the lights where we wanted them, the rest just fell into place.
Did you do any post-processing?
Yes! I always post-process my photos as part of my "style." Skin retouching and color correction/enhancement were involved. Overall, the image isn't very different from the RAW file. I try to keep the retouching to a minimum so the image doesn't have that "fake" quality to it. I hope that's what others who view my work see as well. It's more about enhancing what's already done in camera for me.
What equipment do you normally have in your bag?
I always have my camera with my lenses, a lens cleaner, extra battery, extra memory cards, wireless remote, lights and stands.
Any advice for others trying to capture something similar?
It's all about being inspired and putting your own flare on it. If you see a cool photo and go "wow, i want to try that", then go out and try it. The idea isn't to copy an image exactly, but to use a skill with the experience you already have with things you have on hand. Take some ideas from two or three places and combine them. The possibilities are endless that way.
