Black water
Model: Danielle Tm Model Management
© 2014 Brad Olson
Jul, 2014Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This was taken in my backyard swimming pool. The session was intended to test some lighting concepts before a commercial photo shoot that would also be in a swimming pool. I wanted to see how the water at night would affect the lights that I chose to use and also see what surprises I might encounter so that I could anticipate and prepare for those.Time
We waited until it was fairly dark and this shot was taken just before 8 pm. It was about 20 minutes after sunset, but fortunately it was still about 90 degrees here in Arizona.Lighting
I was using two or three AlienBee strobes and I needed to test the lights from a distance that was safely away from the water's edge and see if I could get the results that I wanted on the model in the pool. I tried several strategies using one, two and three lights. For this shot, I was using just a single strobe at camera right with a silver reflector, no diffusion. This exposure info: ISO 160 f/9 1/160th sec.Equipment
This photograph was taken with my Nikon D800, Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G lens and the BUFF AlienBee B800 strobe (and a Shasta pool!).Inspiration
As we were testing different lighting concepts, I was captivated by the patterns of the model's reflection and light and shadow that were rippling on the surface of the water. Those patterns became as strong an element as the subject to me and I think they convey the motion and fluidity of the water.Editing
Sometimes I will edit an image in color and then convert to black and white as an alternative option. I think this instantly struck me that it would be stronger as a high contrast black and white image. I made some RAW adjustments in Lightroom and finished the edit in Photoshop.In my camera bag
My bag will typically have a Nikon D810 body, a D800 body, 85mm, 50mm and 35mm prime lenses, 5 batteries, several SD cards, neutral density filters for each lens and a Hoodman loupe. If I'm headed to the studio, I'll also pack a tablet (for music), a laptop for tethering, and a Sekonic light meter.Feedback
This setup would be fairly simple to duplicate. Be sure to mount lights a safe distance from the water and secure them from wind or accidental bumps. I would suggest using one light to the side and slightly ahead of the model at full power. The model can help meter from her position or you can take some test shots and adjust your exposure accordingly. Include plenty of ripple in your composition and post the results on ViewBug.com!
