Creating evocative photographs that connect you to your beauty and glamour.
Austin, San Antonio, Houston Boudoir-Glamour-Fashion Photographer
Thank you for visiting with me. This blog chronicles my journey as a professional glamour, boudoir and fashion photographer as well as my continuing adventures around the world.
We just returned from Europe where Von Trapp Photography spent 4 incredible days and nights shooting and living in the Ca Zeno Palazzo, of Venice Italy. I have visited Venice many times in the 80's and 90's, but even on extended visits I never got the chance to feel like I lived there. A hotel room, even the nicest ones, can only offer to one the experience of Venice as a visitor.
Ca Zeno belongs to the direct descendant of the noble family Gradenigo which produced several leaders of Venice, the Doge, starting with Pietro Gradenigo in the late 13th century. His namesake is the current owner today. The residence is a grand apartment in the building of the once palace, located in the Cannaregio Quarter of Northern Venice.
The crew and I arrived at the Palazzo via water taxi in the early evening. The ride to the residence afforded everyone the chance to view the glamour of the Grand Cannal after sunset, with all its stately facades beautifully illuminated . Upon entering the residence the grandeur of our surroundings struck me deeply, and despite my fatigue after nearly 20 hours of travel I roamed the residence slack-jawed gazing upon the frescos, marble and stone of the various rooms. I then mustered a final surge of energy to unpack the 3 large bags of photo equipment, wardrobe, and props that we brought, and after giving a final briefing to everyone about tomorrow's shoot, I wandered off to my palatial bedroom to pass out.
Corner of the dining room in the noble Venetian palazzo Ca Zen.
The next morning started early near sunrise. I awoke, like in all cities, to the sounds of the streets comming alive with the activity of another day. In this case, of course, the streets were canals, and the sounds were that of boats moving along the waterway below our balconied windows instead of automobiles. As my eyes came into focus I gazed upon the frescoed ceiling some 16 feet above my bed. A hint of the cool blue light of morning peeked in around the shutters of the tall windows and french doors of my room. I heard the sound of a woman's heels upon the stone of the walkway just outside. A man's voice, speaking Italian, echoed through the narrow passage ways of the canals. Then, I detected it! The marvelous aroma of Italian coffee floating upon the gentle breeze being blown down the hall with the aid of some morning wind coming in through an open window of the kitchen.
Production Assistant Pat, always an early riser, was tasked to put together breakfast for what will be a early and long day of shooting. "What a wonderful life" I thought.
The ubiquitous Italian coffee pot. I love mine which has journeyed with me in my rucksack during my Green Beret years when the mission allowed, despite adding to the already 100 pounds of "lightweight gear" of essential kit.
It was a quick colazione (breakfast) and coffee for model Nicole and I prior to setting off for the first two shot setups of the morning. During our time in Venice we had planned to create several different images of fashion, art nude, lingerie glamour and fashion editorial. Sadly for her, she only indulged in a very light amount of food since her first two setups were to be fashion nudes.
We started off shooting at the entranceway and staircase to the apartments. The available light was stunning in many of the shooting locations and this entranceway was no exception.
All the while back at the apartment, wardrobe and props were being organized by the crew for the rest of that day's shooting. Photos here at the entrance completed, we returned to the kitchen for a real breakfast using that time to also do hair and makeup.
The rest of this day, lasting up to sunset was filled with wardrobe, jewelry, hair, and makeup changes, changes of set location throughout the palazzo and outside in the local area. All under the unrelenting pressure of the clock.
Planning The Shoot...Put on another pot of coffee! "Maybe I will have tea this time".
We came to Italy with an ambitious plan which was laid out in painstaking detail back home in Texas over the preceeding months. Concept and mood boards were created, just like we do for all of our client shoots, except this project was larger in its scope and to be completed seven time zones away.
Like any large project that is professionally conducted planning was the key. I thought I was back on an Special Forces "A team" planning an infiltration into some part of the world. In fact we were sort of doing just that.
Photo Artist Richard pulling together details of the shoot, creating a "story board" and shot list to mach up with the written description of each planned image. The next two photos are the result of the left sketch (#1A and 1B) above.
Getting four people to one location in Europe coming from three widely separate locations in the states was the easy part. Despite several airline schedule changes over the months prior, and potential hurricane development from socking in departures from Houston or Ft Lauderdale, that part proved not to be a problem.
What was given great consideration was first the overall concept, theme, feel, mood and look of the desired images to be created. Whatever was decided upon would have to fit the look of our model, the location and time of year, what wardrobe and props could be sourced, the time available and so much more. Even such things as meteorological and astrological variables were researched and considered, both historical and currently forecasted. Sunrise and sunset along with the forecasted positions and angle of the sun at a given time of the day were factored into where we would shoot and when. I used satellite imagery to help me see where the sun would be in the sky, and to help me decide what the light would likely be in a given room or location at a given time of the day.
We had images of most of the rooms of the Palazzo which were of great help in planning each shot. But having never seen it in person many questions and potential problems still loomed. But the largest and most nagging spector to materialize and follow me all the way through this process, right up to the completion of shooting, was that of time! Would I have enough time to complete all of my desired and meticulously planned shots?
As I found inspiration I selected locations for each shot or designed the shot to fit each site. Wardrobe and accessories were sourced and selected, hair and make up were considered. Countless revisions and culling of ideas were conducted as different issues came to light. Finally enough planning was conducted that it was possible to detail each shot, and we created both a written description list and either a sketch or photo inspiration of each image to be created. I had already ruthlessly culled some 15 images from the total in the eleventh hour so that I could proceed to this final step of sketching, which can be seen in the photo above. But I was hard pressed to do so, I loved these 15 ideas! Once I did, however, the proverbial weight was lessened from my mind. My spector still remained, however, now quietly whispering instead of yelling, "time, you will not have enough time".
Mirrored Glamour by Von Trapp Photography 2015Mirrored Glamour, Beauty Reflected.
This capture was made in a grand bedroom of a nobel residence in Venice Italy. The period furniture, 20 foot frescoed celling and French doored balcony, overlooking a canal, created an inspirational location for this evocative lingerie glamour photograph.
As it turned out we did indeed have enough time. The planning and estimating of what it might take for each set-up, shot, location/wardrobe change and resetting of the lighting was satisfyingly close to what it finally turned out to be on set. The dedicated work of my photography assistant and production assistant, along with the endurance of our model to push through a challenging schedule made it all happen. But it started with a dream, a vision and a solid plan.
With day one finished, each of us went on, after a short rest, to go shopping for food at a local market and bring our delicacies back to the apartment for that night and the next day. We decided to "visit" the main tourist side of the city, wandering through the alleyways to St Mark's Square some 20 minutes away. I casually lead the group...making a turn here...stopping at an interesting location there, seeming as if I knew where I was at all times. In fact it was 1999 when I last visited from my military posting in Germany. But it all came back to me despite some moments of frantically trying to recall my previous adventures here, but most in the group were none the wiser.
My sincere appreciation to everyone involved in this project. I hope that you the reader will return to view the results of this undertaking in the weeks to come as I work through the next step in the creative process, that of post processing and artistic styling of the images.
Cheers,
Richard
Follow this link to a romantic video of this most lovely city.
Open your mind and heart, travel and know the joy of becoming a citizen of the world.
One's life can be comprised of many things...perhaps the most important of which is learning and growing.
RvT
Making a Difference with Strobes…How strobes and light modifiers can aid in creating extraordinary fashion, glamour and boudoir photographs.
Whether I am shooting in a studio, on location in central Texas, or elsewhere in the world, I will always strongly consider using some form of strobe and lighting modifiers. Natural and ambient light are great, often providing a regionally unique look that is found only in that part of the world. (This is a perfect excuse for any photographer or painter to travel.) Anyone who has traveled widely can attest to how different the light is at one given location over another. The warm golden colors of Rome, the intense spring colors of Europe, or vibrant colors of the Caribbean are but a few examples.
The overriding problem with available light, however, is that there is always an uncertainty of what you will have at the time the photograph is taken. Even then, it will be changing from moment to moment. Photographers know well the concept of chasing the light, or may be heard muttering that they are losing the light.
This brings me to artificial light - any source other than the sun, moon and stars. It can be available light such as street lighting, candlelight, city lights, etc. But in its most controllable form, the kind used by movie makers and skilled photographers, it can be counted upon to make the exact kind of light the artist is envisioning. There are two main forms of artificial light used in cinema and photography. They are classified as continuous lighting and strobes (commonly called flash). Two examples of strobes are studio strobe and speed light.
I presently use strobes and speed lights with a variety of devices to change and shape the light. This shaping of the light is accomplished with light modifiers. Light modifiers are any device that is used around, in front of, or on the light source to provide control such as softening, directing, or intensifying the light. When used in consort with accessories that include light stands, colored gels, battery packs and more, they afford the artist immense creative ability to construct and shape the very look of the light.
Lady in Orange v.2a by Von Trapp Fashion Photography 2014.Fashion, lighting, and styling were carefully considered and crafted in the creation of this glamour photograph. This mysterious image was created in San Antonio just as a rain started to fall.
This image was created using two 1000 watt Profoto D1 Air studio strobes. The first strobe is fitted with a beauty dish attached to a boom above the model and to camera left. The second strobe is placed 25 feet away and aimed up along this narrow walkway to illuminate the model's lower body, and highlight her pumps to really pop their great color. The camera is 40 feet away and fitted with a Canon 200mm f2L IS lens on a 5D MkII body with a radio trigger. My lens choice, along with the strobes, allowed me to drop the background out of focus and into darkness, thus keeping the viewer's attention on the subject.
In this edgy image of our client, Austin Author/Publisher J.M. Buckler, the sun was used a rim-light her from behind, while a single 1000w strobe provided the main light.
For our shoot with Samiha in the Las Vegas desert, we once again used the sun to rim-light the model. Two 1000w strobes were this time placed high and to the sides of Samiha.
Joyful Breeze v.3 by Von Trapp Photography 2018.(From the series: Joyful Nymph on the Knoll)
A lovely breeze blows across this knoll and Joy's body in Naarden.
Mode/HMU: Joy Draiki
M.M. #2798173.
Photo assistant Emanuele.
Hosted by local photographer Rob Polder
This capture of Joy used only one 500w strobe as a main light, with the the sun backlighting her lovely hair.
In contrast to the other images this capture of Palmer on Peacock Ally in San Antonio was created on a partly cloudy afternoon with the sun behind the camera. To add additional punch to the light we used a strobe just right of camera.
Here with rain looming and reduced sunlight, the strobe was used to create this punchy and dramatic light.
Using high powered strobes allow the photo-artist to overpower the ambient light such as in the images above. In the very top image a strobe appears to be the only light source when in fact the photo was taken at 9am, albeit on a lightly cloudy day. It could, however, easily be done on a brighter day by increasing the strobe's power of output and adjusting the exposure settings to use the fastest shutter possible. (Note: In such a case a camera that can flash synch at a higher shutter speed than 1:200 is optimal) Day at the Beach by Von Trapp Photography 2014.Behind the Scenes of a beach glamour shoot in Port Aransas Texas.
The Profoto Air units can also be individually turned on and off, their power increased or decreased or a modeling light activated all from behind the camera with a radio trigger. This creative power, however, comes at a price. Top of the line units with an external power source and accessories as, seen above, will amount to the equivalent of 5 to 6 months of house payments in many parts of the country.
At a considerably lower price point are speed lights, which will give similar control but with much less power when compared to the studio strobes listed above. Being more portable they will be the better choice for some projects and I keept three for such jobs. It is possible to buy the necessary gear, in order to pair two or more speed lights for use in one light modifier, such as a soft box or umbrella, to gain more light output for those sunny locations. You will get more light output by using multiple units in this way, the smaller components will be easier to transport, and there is no need for a large battery pack or AC power as with studio strobes. But three mid-grade speed lights for one soft box with triggers for each will start to approach the cost of one of my studio heads listed above. Thus speed lights do offer great results when used in most situations not needing to overpower the ambient light which can be seen in the following 6 captures.
For the next 5 images I used two speed lights with radio triggers.
I used one speed light and trigger in a 24x24in folding soft box with the front defusing panel removed to create a crisper (harsher) light for a more edgier mood. A second unit fitted only with a colored gel and trigger is placed some 80 feet away at the end of the corridor facing the camera's position. I used a tripod to give me the control needed to make slight adjustments in the camera's position to get the light just above the model's shoulder. A star filter was not used.
Sheer & Blue Lace v.2a by Von Trapp Photography 2013.
A above and following captures were a similar setup as above except we kept the front defusing panel to create a a lovely soft light, and no colored gel was used.
Let Me Get You A Drink v.2a by Von Trapp Photography 2013.
Flick of Red v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2014. | Fashion Glamour Photography
Artistic lighting that is edgy or the dramatic will require two and three strobe/speed light locations, sometime more to develop the look. In order to creatively place your light sources in a number of possible locations away from the camera's position you will also need a triggering system. There are two kinds of cordless triggers, Infra red (IR) and radio. The IR system has the inherent disadvantage of not working well in bright sunlight, and are line of sight only. Presuming your creative juices will on occasion have you shooting in daylight (overpowering the sun) you will not be able to always count on the IR triggering included on many upper tiered speed light units. So you will need a radio trigger for each strobe/speed light head and for the camera. Radio systems have the added value of allowing you to place units around corners, most up to 200 to 300 feet away.
Canon strobe on a telescoping pool with a mini soft-box and fired by a radio tigger.
So if you are a natural/available light photographer possibly looking for a new creative twist for your work, give controllable-artificial light a try. If your budget is such as to limit your lust, consider an inexpensive speed light with a guide number as close to or over 100 as possible. Several simple radio triggers are ever more affordable now. Depending on brand, an entry level investment of $230 to $450 will get you a speed light and triggering system consisting of a transmitter and receiver. Additional speed lights and receivers generally run another $160 to $350. Start with two speed lights and then add light modifiers as your budget allows.
Flash unites at these price points do not, however, have the through the lens (TTL) capability of pricer units. The TTL function allows the flash and camera's metering system to communicate to create a "correct" exposure at the moment of taking the picture. This feature is great when working with quickly changing scenes and subjects such as sporting events, some street photography, news events etc. But when creating an image with an artfully planned concept, you are best served to set the flash power manually and calculate the settings using a hand held light meter. One that works with flash is referred to as a flash meter.
A hand held (flash) light meter will be the best bit of photographic kit that will take you to a new creative level, both when shooting with strobe and any other light source. A hand held light meter is so worth the $180 to $600 price tag to get such incredible ability to "get it right". I am presently using a Sekonic L-478D flash meter and I just love it.
If, however, you wish to "do it old school" you can use a chart that gives you the f-stop for a given ISO for a given strobe's power (Guide Number) at a designated distance of flash to subject. It is quite simple and accurate. You can learn more about this method online at www.creativelive.com. Look up the segment under: Catalog, Category: Photo & Video, Topic: Lighting, and find the lesson titled "Crazy Stupid Light" with Scott Robert Lim. The cost of the course at $129 will be well worth it and can change your world. Or, you can put this money towards a flash meter - both options will yield great possibilities. All you need do is try/use them.
If you are a creative I hope you will value my essay in some small way. If, however, you are not a photographer, please read on.
If you are someone looking for a photographer, consider the look you want for your final image. You will be investing some $300 to $900 for most average good quality work. Now further consider the opportunity to have something out of the norm. Your investment just became more sound when your images are a work of art. Conduct an online image search for glamour, beauty, and boudoir photography.
Look at the quantity and similarity of available light photos. With the considerable cost in terms of lighting equipment, training, and experience it is no wonder that so many professionals are shooting with available light. However, although gorgeous, you may wish to have images more unique; ones that cannot be created by just any photographer.
If you want an image that is styled more like what is seen in fashion magazines, or perhaps cinematic like as seen in movies, you are going to need to find an artist who is doing that kind of work. I urge you to consider stepping away from the pack and seek something special for yourself. Now that you have some idea of what is possible, look past what is normal.
The saying amongst professional photographers is that everyone today is a photographer. With the advent of the camera phone that may seem to be true. However, I submit that a high megapixel phone camera, with its tiny sensor which is incapable of producing high quality images in the first place, does not an artist make. Only a creative mind, trained and experience with an artful eye, and yes, often a considerable amount of expensive gear, makes a photo-artist.
Sexy Cowgirl by Von Trapp Photography 2014.Cowgirl Inspired Glamour Shoot
This is one of the several images created for out client who commissioned Von Trapp Photography to create a series of sexy and evocative country inspired images.
See behind the scenes photos from this shoot and others.
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Bhean bòidhchead v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2019.(Title: Lady of Beauty in Scots Gaelic).
Our lovely model graces a beach in Scotland below Greenan Castle on a cold October day to create this image. Von Trapp Photography traveled to the Highlands of Scotland and Lake Distric of England for two weeks of shooting which yielded numerous wonderful captures of fine art.
Model/HMU: Kristy.
Photo Production Assistants: Steve, Mina Smith
Reflections of Beauty by Von Trapp Photography 2015.Emotive Boudoir Photography
This evocatively glamorous image of Signe was created by Von Trapp Photography at the SLS Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
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Don't settle for the "selfies", ladies. Invest in a quality professional photographer, be they a natural/available light shooter or otherwise. You deserve to see and feel your glamour in pictures.
Connecting you to your glamour.
With a desire to expand the depth of my education and skill as a woman's photographer, I am venturing into the study of the pin-up, and have started exploring the genre. My first steps into this art form have been into the iconic World War II era. Although not the true beginning of the genre, it was an influential period with a large market interest for the all American sweetheart used to "help with the war effort".
So I packed up my gear and traveled to Mobile Bay, home to the World War II battleship USS Alabama, and submarine, USS Drum. We planned a retro-inspired shoot aimed at capturing the feel of a WWII pinup whilst shooting on location at these iconic vessels.
Hot Day at the Beach v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Dorothy goes to sea, homage to the WWII pinup)
Dottie points her...hmm…um camera at her hot subject, and can feel herself growing more hot and randy by the second. Pinup inspired beach glamour shoot.
Model: Dorothy
You were half a word away, but if you were a lucky guy, your sweetheart might have some "special" photos created for her to send to you. Otherwise, if not, you could always count on finding a suitable image in a magazine to help keep your "spirits" up.
Shipshape v.2 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the Dorothy goes to sea series, homage to the WWII pinup.)
Pinup Glamour Shoot Aboard The U.S.S. Alabama.
With inspiration from countless WWII pin-ups in mind, Von Trapp Photography set out to do homage to a loved genre of photography from that era.
This capture was made aboard the battleship USS Alabama anchored in Mobile Bay. It shows one of the battle stations within a 16 inch main gun turret. Our model, wearing vintage inspired lingerie, has struck one of the iconic styled pin-up poses that went to sea and war with countless sailors.
I used two speed lights to create this image. One high and behind Dorthy to rim light her, the other at camera and high right. With the dim lighting inside the turret I chose to shoot with as small an f/stop as possible to compensate for the possibility that I may be off on my focus.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
I'm Going to Get Some v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Dorothy goes to sea, homage to the WWII pinup)
Pinup Glamour Shoot Aboard The U.S.S. Drum.
With inspiration from countless WWII pin-ups in mind, Von Trapp Photography set out to do homage to a loved genre of photography from that era.
Her watch now done, Dorothy is anxious to hot-cot with you and get some satisfying rack time. She finds it titillating when she is in the sack with such a thick, long and powerful one under her. Created if the forward torpedo room of the USS Drum.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
Throughout the war, sexy and evocative works of pin-up art were painted on the nose of combat aircraft, as well as carried and posted by service members around the world. They included women who were fully clothed showing some stocking top and garter or in shorts with a cropped top, to women in bathing suits, lingerie, and occasionally nude or implied nude. These images became iconic of an era, however, the pin-up dates back to the 1800s in one form or another.
Quoting from an article in the Huffington Post Art & Culture by Priscilla Frank, "She's risqué but never explicit. She's flirtatious but fiercely independent. She's erotic but always safe for work...".
My images from the Alabama shoot do not faithfully represent the war years, the wardrobe is more correct for the early/mid 1950s. However, I feel the retro-inspired look of these shots do indeed honor the countless images that went to war.
"OH! Hi Chief" by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Dorothy goes to sea, homage to the WWII pinup.)
Pinup Glamour Shoot Aboard The U.S.S. Alabama.
With inspiration from countless WWII pin-ups in mind, Von Trapp Photography set out to do homage to a loved genre of photography from that era.
Dotty gets caught "out of uniform" whilst picking up her dungarees from the laundry. One is left to wonder what "extra duty" she will be given by the Chief.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
Giving it to the Scerws by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Dorothy goes to sea, homage to the WWII pinup)
With inspiration from countless WWII pin-ups in mind, Von Trapp Photography set out to do homage to a loved genre of photography from that era.
Dottie loves to be in control, the Main Control of this WWII submarine in this case. Here, she deftly uses her hands to affect how much power is given to each shaft, thereby controlling how much torque she is going to get. She finds it satisfying to be in control like this, determining if she is going to get it short and fast, or slow and long (a submariner understands). You will note from the fine fit of her uniform and cut of her jib that she is a skilled operator and always ready to go down.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
For the submariners and enthusiasts, the USS Drum is equipped with a Westinghouse main control cubicle, seen here.
It is said that the three most popular pin-up images of WWII are of Betty Grable in her one-piece bathing suit, Rita Hayworth wearing a form-fitting négligée and Jane Russell leaning against a haystack, her bodice at the breaking point. Although these images were originally photographs that were made into posters and often reproduced as drawings and paintings, most pin-up art was some form of drawing or painting.
Out of Uniform v.2a by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the Dorothy Goes to sea series, homage to the WWII pinup.)
Caught out of uniform at the ship's pressing shop, DeeDee will now have to explain where her dungarees are. But really, don't you think the Chief should give her a pass this time? Sexy retro-inspired shoot on the USS Alabama.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
Hot Rack Time v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Dorothy goes to sea, homage to the WWII pinup.)
With a fine rack of her own and now having finished her watch, this bombshell is all set to heat things up and satisfy her hunger. Located in the enlisted billet aboard the USS Alabama Battleship.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
Showing Off Her Twins v.3 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the Dorothy goes to sea series, homage to the WWII pinup.)
Pinup Glamour Shoot Aboard The U.S.S. Alabama.
With inspiration from countless WWII pin-ups in mind, Von Trapp Photography set out to do homage to a loved genre of photography from that era.
One of the USS Alabama's aft twin 40mm monut is the setting for Dorthy to show off her luscious gams and her own set of twins. Her 32 DD's that is, which are fully readied for action, having been loaded in her bullet bra.
Our dish is wearing back-seam Cuban heel stockings with a garter belt, a period inspired dress, and a period correct bullet bra.
The bra molds her already delectable bosom into an eye-popping silhouette
which would make any sailor hard...pressed not to stand up and take notice of her.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
Awaiting Chow v.2 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Dorothy goes to sea, homage to the WWII pinup.)
"What a Dish!" The luscious "Dottie" recreates the 1940's Pinup. Located in the Enlisted Mess, port side stern, aboard the Battleship U.S.S. Alabama, model Dorothy sits oppisite the round barbette of the number three 16-inch gun turret. Model/HMU: Dorothy
Lovely and Luscious v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the Dorothy goes to sea series, homage to the WWII pinup)
Intoxicating and seductive, our model is as fascinating and intelligent as she is delightfully curvaceous. Here she channels her inner bombshell to pay homage to that iconic femme fatale of the pin-up era. Hopefully now in the millennium one can be appreciated for both their intellect and alluring sexuality.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
Domestic Duties v.2 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Dorothy goes to sea, homage to the WWII pinup.)
Working in the ship's loundry of the USS Alabama would have been more enjoyable under these conditions.
Model/HMU: Dorothy
So, go ahead, give her bottom a little tap on your way to your battle station. If you are a confident enough, let your buddies have a chance to do the same to her as well. And anyway...you could always charge them if you need to.
Come back to see other pinup inspired work of mine.
There were other photographs of lovely women that were available to service members as pin-ups. Among them were images published in the weekly Yank Magazine.
For more info about the evolution of the pin-up visit the sites below, and for your own chance to become a modern pin-up contact us at Von Trapp Photography. Connecting you to your glamour.
Creating Boudoir Images...What is and what is not boudoir photography?
What comes to your mind when you think about the term Boudoir photography? If you have followed any of my previous blog postings, you know that I have been advocating for a change to how people think about glamour and boudoir photography. (See: Glamour and Boudoir Photography...The Changing style of these misunderstood genre Part 1)
I feel that a misunderstanding of what boudoir photography is keeps some women from ever considering having their portrait taken in this manner. Boudoir photography is empowering and liberating and it is my hope that a better understanding of what it is, and what it is not, will allow more women to seek out the opportunity to be photographed thusly.
Richard von Trapp is a boudoir and glamour photographer in Central Texas who is creating evocative and elegant images that connect you to your glamour, and allow you to fall in love with yourself.
Elegant and evocative boudoir photography has been created for decades, and is being increasingly regarded as an art form that is worth being noticed. It is being featured with increasing frequency at internationally recognized professional photography conferences and seminars, and a considerable amount of very good to exquisite examples can be found online in search results.
Classy Boudoir
A well crafted boudoir image provides an immense opportunity for a woman to explore her beauty, grace, sexiness and glamour. No matter what your body type, a professionally produced image will bring out a side of you that you have not seen in a long time, or perhaps one that you never imagined existed.
I do feel, however, that anyone who is new to the genre may feel uncomfortable when they search online for examples of boudoir photos. It is so easy to be confused by the variety of images that will be returned in a search for "boudoir" as to what boudoir photography really is.
Sexy Boudoir
One will find a wide variety of photographs lumped into the genre of boudoir. Images of a woman in either lingerie, partially nude or nude, and taken in almost any setting will be referred to as boudoir. I find this to be confusing and potentially off-putting at worst, and inelegant at best. The "boudoir" by its very definition is a ladies' sitting room, parlor, dressing room or bedroom. As such, I am discontented with an image of a woman in lingerie who is photographed out of doors as being called boudoir. Out of simplicity or expediency by some photographer and lay-public, it has become common to call this example…boudoir. I choose to classify such an example as lingerie glamour or sexy glamour, but not boudoir.
I find it more desirable to sub-classify such images for clarity and ease of helping my clients to describe and decide on what look and feel of imagery they are wishing to create. This is my breakdown and classification for the variations of boudoir photography.
Classic Boudoir. Photographs taken in the setting of the classical definition of boudoir. Featuring the subject getting ready such as doing hair, make-up etc. She may be dressing, dressed, undressing, or undressed. She may be wearing clothes, in her lingerie or nude/partly nude. Her attitude, pose and expression are not overtly sexual in its styling.
Classic Boudoir
Classic Boudoir
Classic Boudoir
Classic Boudoir
Classy Boudoir. Can be similar to the above example, but without clear reference to the boudoir as a setting (such as on a living room sofa) but is still indoors. This category has a greater number of possibilities since it is free from the limits of the definition of the boudoir, however, follows somewhat closely the idea of not being overtly sexy. Playful, however, is more often classified into this category.
Classy Boudoir
Classy Boudoir
Classy Boudoir
Classy Boudoir
Classy Boudoir
Sexy Boudoir. Images taken in a setting much as above but with emphasis on sexiness and playfulness as depicted by the choice of pose or body position, clothing, or communicated through the expression given by the subject. In this category I also include the choice of locations other than the boudoir, which may even add some degree of eroticism to the impression given by the image.
Sexy Boudoir
Sexy Boudoir
Sexy Boudoir
Sexy Boudoir
Bridal Boudoir. A wonderful variation to the Classy Boudoir style is Bridal Boudoir. Often sought by brides-to-be as a wedding present for their groom, the bridal boudoir album truly makes for a lovely gift. They are much like the classy boudoir images, but will include the wedding veil/white lingerie. In fact, many of the same poses that we love for classy boudoir will be used for bridal boudoir.
Details of Love v.2 by Von Trapp Photography 2014. Bridal Boudoir. Beautifully emotive Wedding Boudoir Photograph taken in the Classy Style. This is a great gift for your groom.
Bridal Boudoir
Bridal Boudoir
Bridal Glamour v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2014.Beautifully emotive Wedding Boudoir Photograph taken in the Classy Style.
Bridal Boudoir
Lingerie Glamour.
Images of a woman wearing lingerie, or where the model is partly nude, overtly sexy, or evocative which don't meet the definition of boudoir as above, I classify in other ways. Most often I consider these as Lingerie Glamour, Sexy Glamour, or Fashion Glamour, but not Boudoir. I feel that the following image can fall into both the sexy boudoir and lingerie glamour category.
Lingerie Glamour/Sexy Boudoir
Lingerie Glamour
Leggy in Blue by Von Trapp Photography 2019.Our leggy beauty traveled with us to England to create this alluring image in the Lake District.
Model: Kat
Lingerie Glamour
At Sea by Von Trapp Photography 2014.Sexy lingerie glamour photograph. Lingeria Glamour
Fire and Ice v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2018.Commissioned photo shoot with author/publisher J.M. Buckler. Lingerie Glamour
Fashion/Lingerie Glamour
By breaking down the images into these categories I find that it is easier to communicate with clients about the styling, mood, pose, setting, expression, wardrobe, and feeling being communicated to the viewer. In this way, it is also possible to introduce the newcomer and would be model to the glamorous world of boudoir photography.
When you consider a boudoir photographer and their work, look for a photographer who is producing a style that fits your vision and desire. If you find one who has an interesting style but who may not have examples of their work that fit into a subcategory which you desire, contact them directly to discuss your thoughts. Often a photographer's online portfolio for boudoir will be limited in the variety of examples shown because clients may not wish to be featured online.
How the artist styles their images in terms of lighting, coloring, sharpness, and setting should also be considered. It is often the hallmark of their style and can be seen throughout their body of work. Some artists may have a variety of looks to their works, others will create a singular signature style. Let's look at how a style can be described in terms of lighting.
Natural Light. This refers to the light created in nature, i.e. sun, moon and stars. This light can produce beautiful results, but is extremely limiting. It has to be there at the time of shooting, and it is constantly changing. When available in the right location (light from a north facing window when indoors is the best), or at the best time of the day (sunrise to mid-morning and late afternoon to sunset), incredible results can be obtained. The image below is an example of the use of natural light.
Classy Boudoir (Natural Light)
North light will produce soft, evenly lit images. It is often used to produce a romantic look to the photograph. Morning light too is soft and cool in its color, which is not the case with the warm color to late afternoon light. Generally, afternoon light is not as soft as north or morning light, but allows for the creation of warm ethereal images as the photographer shoots into the light coming from behind the subject. The glow of the light coming from behind the model and into the lens creates a flair of light which reduces the sharpness of the subject, creating the ethereal feeling.
Afternoon light can also be used to create sharply contrasted images that are fashion magazine like with an edgy look. Long sharp shadows with crisp warm light is the hallmark of photos made at this time of day.
Classy Boudoir using a vintage nightgown and bullet bra lingerie. (Natural Light, late afternoon light)
Woman At The Palazzo Window v.2 by Von Trapp Photography 2015.(From the series: Woman At The Palazzo Window) This intently evocative image of Nicole at one of the windows overlooking the Palazzo's courtyard, emotes sensuality and mystery, yet hints at vulnerability. Image from the Venice Model/HMU: uNicoleorn Lingerie Glamour (Soft Natural Light)
Magnificent View by Von Trapp Photography 2015.>Our luscious model Jessica enjoys a morning coffee and the exquisitely sensual feeling of the sea breeze caressing her bare skin. Lingerie Glamour (Soft Natural Light)
Lace In Nature v.1b by Von Trapp Photography 2014Sexy Glamour Lingerie Photography
Our model takes a sexy strool taken in nature in the lovely fall Texas weather.
Lingerie Glamour (Natural Light, Sunlight)
Available Light. This is any and all light that is available at a location, but which is not provided by the photographer, such as room lighting as well as natural lighting. This too can afford the artist unique and interesting opportunities to create beautiful images. It is also limiting in several ways. A suitable location has to be found with the right available lighting. If shooting in color, the various "temperatures" of the lights on location must be considered and possibility balanced with each other. All light has its own color temperature, resulting in a range of tones from warm to cold. Combining different color temperatures can be used for artistic effect, but can also create a displeasing mishmash to the look of the image. The ability to control the light, although slightly better than natural light, is still limited to what is present and how it can be turned on and off. The image below shows the effect of differing color temperatures of light. Seen in the corner, near the window, is the warm yellowish color of incandescent lighting from the boudoir table. In this image, the temperature of that light has been partially balanced with the cooler outdoor light coming in from the window. I chose to keep some of the incandescent light's warmth to work with the color of the vanity table to create a visual point of contrast and interest.
In this image, both sunlight and room light were used to light the model. Three different color temperatures needed to be balanced to create this image.
Kill Shot v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2017.Watching Marista "jam up" during a sexy photo shoot in Cyprus. ("Jam Up" = Shooting Well in Pool Slang).
Models: Marista and Anna Reis.
Lingerie Glamour/Fashion Editorial (Available Light)
This available light capture was made using the 3 different room lights at this location.
Studio Strobes and Speedlights. This is the choice for most commercial photographic work. It gives the artist significant to total control over the light. The color temperature, intensity, and direction of the light can be finely tuned and by this method, the artist is said to be able to shape the light.
The capture above is an example of the use of two speed lights. One in a soft box light modifier to produce a soft frontal light, and one bare speed light placed behind the model to create the flare.
The next two images are created with studio strobes at an outdoor location. The first one during daytime, and the second at night.
Fashion/Lingerie Glamour
In The Night v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2017.Kat strides elegantly along a Venice canal under a streetlight. Von Trapp Photography's fashion shoot in La Serenissima.
Model/HMU: Kat Alexis
Fashion/Lingerie Glamour
Classic Boudoir
This image is a wonderful example of how studio strobes can be used to create a magazine-quality looking boudoir image. A white umbrella was used to provide the soft light on our model's face and body, while using the harsh light of a second strobe to provide the striking highlights on her hair, neck, and shoulder.
See the following three posts for examples of how light can be shaped using these tools.
Light's Beautiful Curves…Using light and shadows to create glamour.
Creating Glamour…Using the elements of glamour to create striking images.
Lexi v.1 by Von Trapp Photography 2014.Boudoir shoot with the yummy Lexi who creates a classic pose for us. Classy Boudoir
In the image above, two strobes are again used to create this boudoir image. One strobe along with a soft box was used as the main light to light the subject. A second strobe with a gobo (material of some kind which is placed between a light source and the subject) of foil with irregular shaped holes was used to create the light and shadows on the wall, which adds additional interest to the photograph.
Sexy Boudoir/ Lingerie Glamour
No matter what your vision or wish for a boudoir photo might be, it will best be served by a professional photographer experienced in this field. You will be best served if you first do your "homework" on the genre of boudoir, by looking at lots of examples of fine quality images. Consider your choice of photographers carefully by studying their body of work. If you find one whose work touches you, give them a call. Also don't limit yourself by not considering an artist who in not in your ares, many photographers are willing to travel. You as well can find it incredibly exciting and fruitful to setup a destination shoot with a photo-artist. Dream big!
If you are thinking about having a boudoir or glamour session, let us at Von Trapp Photography excite you with how we can create a work of art with you as the subject. We will put you in touch with your beauty and glamour. Contact us today.
Our recent return to the Hotel Havana in San Antonio had Von Trapp Boudoir Photography shooting Erika K. in her sexy boudoir session that created beautifully evocative images which she loved. When Erika arrived from the north side of Austin we started by discussing what we had in mind and looked over her wardrobe. We establish the order in which we would shoot her outfits and described how the session would proceed. After the short preproduction meeting she settled in and dressed into her first of four outfits that would be used.
During our two and a half shoot we posed Erika on the bed, seated in this great white chair, on a table and standing in a doorway. During each shot we sculpted the light of our three studio strobes to create refined and glamorous images for our model.
After the shoot, Erika and her husband had a chance to view samples of the products that are available. We explained how an average of 20 to 30 initially edited images will be posted to a password protected proof gallery online so that they can start their selection. From the proof gallery, they will select their 8 favorite captures which will then undergo extensive and loving artistic post processing by us. This includes careful retouching and artistic styling to create a one of a king image. Finally, these fully edited, processed, and retouched images will be posted to a final edits gallery from which Erika and her husband will be able to select from 40 products and services.
We offer specially selected products that best show your art piece which include the stunning Metallic Surfaced Paper, elegant Fine Art Paper, impressive Standout Displays, Canvas Gallery and Print Wraps. As well as the unique Metal Mural, and images printed on Acrylic, Glass and Metal. You can also provide additional safety for your artwork with a protective Lusted Coating Spray, and mounting and framing is also available. Lastly we offer the possibility of having a your images bound into an album, better thought of as an upscale coffee table book, with a choice of leather, linen, or wrap around photograph coven. These are offered in 3 sizes and are the best value for the client wishing to have 10 or more images from their shoot.
To see a price list of products and services offered, go to our Boudoir and Lingerie Gallery and click on the 1st image, then click on "View all Products..."
Contact us today and let Von Trapp Photography connect you to your glamour.
CPT Richard von TrappPhoto Artist Richard von Trapp of Von Trapp Photography.
Austin, Houston and San Antonio Boudoir Photographer's Shoot... Glamour shoot at the Hotel Havana in San Antonio, Texas
This past weekend was exciting and packed full of photo shoots at the Hotel Havana in San Antonio. Located in a 99 year old building that was originally a private residence turned hotel under another name. It is now the charming Havana Hotel. Its motif gives homage to the feel of old Cuba with a period look, artisanal culinary creations, and acclaimed hand-crafted cocktails. I used the hotel's Cuban theme as inspiration to create a 1950's retro look to the costuming of the models.
I loved creating such beautifully elegant glamour, boudoir and stylized period-inspired art. Away thank you to all our models to make this possible.
Glamour Shoot at the Hotel Havana.Beauty photograph taken by Richard von Trapp.
Love life enough to be adventurous, love your country enough to travel, grow and become a better person. Open your mind and heart, travel and know the joy of becoming a citizen of the world.
One's life can be comprised of many things...perhaps the most important of which is learning and growing.
RvT
Part 2
When I do an online search for glamour images, so many of the photos I see are what I would describe as sexy-glamour, lingerie-glamour or boudoir. This is in no way wrong. But I do worry that only these kinds of images will be associated with the words glamour photography or glamour photographs since it is all too narrow of a perception, and too limiting of an understanding.
I prefer the more historical definition of glamour (see this youTube video link which I also listed in my Part 1 blog on this subject: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhHePLaMP_k ) which leads to a more elegant description as described in the video cited . This defines glamour as a condition or state of mind, in which anything having grace, mystery and is transcendent of the everyday is considered to have glamour or be glamorous.
This definition of glamour photography is applicable to images in a multitude of subjects. It's not just about a pretty face. Lets explore the creation of a glamour photograph in its more pure state of the definition. A well-crafted glamour image, regardless of the subject, will have been carfully planned, meticulously photographed and artfuly post processed to create the glamour. In the days of camera film, what we call post-processing today was done by hand, utilizing specialized skills and techniques both in the darkroom and retouching the final print afterward. Today we also do the same kind of work by hand, but use a high-grade computer with specialized softwear, a graphic pen tablet and viewed on a precisely color-calibrated monitor.
Many different kinds of subjects can be photographed in a way as to qualify them as glamour photographs. In fact we often see examples of this in poplar magazines. The next travel, fashion, or leisure magazine you look at, notice how many images are used that have grace and mystery, and this is a short list of where one can see examples of glamour photography.
Engagement Glamour shoot photographed on the stage of the Aztec Theater in San Antonio Texas.
The Power to be Transformative.
As mentioned, glamour has the power to be transformative--to allow the viewer to escape the everyday. It is the idealization, glorification, and dramatization of a subject, concept or scene that is the cornerstone to glamour and of glamour photography.
Glamour and Romance captured in this engagement session photo taken at the Aztec Theater by Von Trapp Photography.
As a glamour photographer I desire to capture the world's glamour where I find it or can create it. When photographing a woman, I strive to create an image that allows her to love herself. The photograph should transcend her everyday and idealize, glorify and dramatize her beauty. I believe every woman deserves to be photographed in this glamorous fashion.
Everyday I view beautiful works of photographic art online; gorgeous images with lots of feeling that are classified as glamour. But often I feel they are not examples of glamour as I have described it here, despite the beauty of the photograph. I further feel that there is a prevailing oversimplification of what glamour photography is, and it is associated in the minds of many viewers as only the boudoir or sexy style of photography of young women. But I know that glamour photography is so much more. The next time you look at your favorite publications consider finding the glamour in many of the images. Look for the elements of glamour as I have set forth here and learn to see the glamour in our world.
It is my hope to advocate successfully for a broader view of what is the definition of glamour photography--one that holds the classical definition as the primary understanding of what it could be.
In my next part I will break down how I have attempted to classify the many possible subcategories of glamour photography.
Richard von Trapp is a Texas glamour and boudoir photographer who uses the classical definition of glamour to see the world that he photographs.
The town of Rothenburg Germany is located in the northwestern part of Bavaria in the Franconia region. It dates from the year 1170 and is the home of just under 11,000 residents. It is a walled town with watch towers, defensive positions and, in places, a mote. The image below was created on the second level within one of the towers using two strobes and a soft box.
This picturesque treasure survived several brushes with destruction over the centuries, including WWII when a peaceful solution was reached between American and German soldiers, in contradiction to Hitler's orders, and the town was spared extensive damage.
We traveled to this and other locations to create glamour, fashion-editorial, and boudoir images in the beauty and charm of Italy and Germany. This behind the scenes photo was taken durning the initial lighting set-up of a shot within one of the defensive positions of the wall.
Crafting the Light | Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio Boudoir-Glamour-PinupFashion/Glamour photographer Richard von Trapp taking a flash exposure reading durning a fashion shoot in Germany. Texas photo-artist Richard von Trapp and model setting up for a fashion-glamour editorial shoot.
Here I am taking a light meter reading of my primary strobe which is fitted with a 2x3 foot soft box. To my rear is a second strobe being used to create a rim light on the model in order to separate her from the darker background. I ultimately balanced the light output from these two strobes with the natural light coming in from the outside to create my final look.
This is the final look of the capture we created. The addition of the red fabric with its intense pop of color and sense of movement really adds to the drama of the photograph. The exposure and light output of our two strobes was balanced with the available light coming in through the window. I finished the image with a golden glow, and the color was really picked up by the stone of the wall.
Von Trapp Photography creates beautifully evocative images that connect you to your glamour, and allow you to fall in love with yourself. Contact me today and let me excite you with how you can be the captured in a way that few photographers can.
Visit this link to see public domaine images of Rothenburg: https://www.google.com/search?q=rothenburg&sa=X&biw=1269&bih=921&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&ei=Ss4YVJrEC9fsoASPtILgAg&ved=0CDcQ7Ak
One of our pleasures is to venture to San Antonio's SoHo Martini Bar where one can indulge in artfully crafted drinks and a great atmosphere. The mixologists there always delight one's senses with a blend of artful style and technical skill. On this night I created several available light photographs of both staff and patrons. Here are some of my favorites. Two fellow artists who specialize in ink. Thank you for allowing me to photograph you.
This unique perspective includes my wife Currie to the right of the frame and a reflection in a mirror of two patrons behind me in a corner.
The blending of mid-century style and current day technique is SoHo's own signature style. Located in a late 19th century bank, SoHo incorporates the original vault as part of its room design. The vault door is seen here to camera left.
This evening gave me the chance to enjoy the artful passion of the staff, the artistry of ink and my own love of photographing life's glamour.
Photo Artist Richard von Trapp
Von Trapp Boudoir Photography traveled from San Antonio to Las Vegas and had the great joy of shooting Kiti Kobain, a talented and wonderful woman who is a published and experienced print and runway mode. Kiti is a new mom of three and despite her considerable experience, as exampled in her impressive portfolio, was apprehensive at the thought of being photographed after her pregnancy.
Much like most ladies who consider being photographed in a boudoir or glamour session, Ms. Kiti seemed to be uneasy when she reported for hair and makeup. Despite years of experience in front of the camera, she was much like any other beautiful woman being photographed for the first time. In fact, Kiti was being photographed for the first time, as a new mother.
For a woman being photographed especially in such a evocative setting, disquiet and apprehension is quite normal and expected. Concerns about body shape, skin, hair and self image are normal and a part of every woman's daily life. For better or worse it is a part of your mental makeup and is inextricably connected to that which makes you special and powerful.
My joy as an artist is to help women work through their normal apprehensions in order to unveil the glamour within each one. The journey that we take together varies for different women, but it is still traveled.
Model: Kiti Kobain
Wardrobe: By Model
Makeup: Glam by Samiha
Hair: Jeanette Marie
Props/Set Dressing: Von Trapp Photography
Set Location: SLS Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas
Let us connect you to your glamour with a boudoir session that will create art with you as the subject.
Part 1
Planning a wedding is often a weighty undertaking. However, it can also be an endeavor of great joy and partnership for the couple - one which creates lasting memories of love and closeness. Selecting your photographer is, of course, one of the many important decisions to make.
Prior to selecting your photographer, invest some time in looking at the different photographic styles of wedding photography across the U.S. and even in other countries. To help you expand your appreciation of the different styles, start a web search for wedding photographers in 3 or 4 different large cities of your choice. Look at the imagery and save any examples of the ones that truly move and "speak" to you. Select the ones that make a strong first impression, but don't consider why just yet; that will be the next step. This is a photo-imagery brainstorming session. After doing this with as many photographers in as many different cities as you care to explore, you are now ready to revisit the ones that have inspired you most. Remember to research imagery from artists that are not in your area, for in this way you will be introducing yourself to a broader range of styles. Very often local markets will have a very similar look or style. That is in no way bad, but at this point I am encouraging you to find your style and this will be a great way to do so.
[This image is created to give a slight ethereal look to the Bride's dress and her Father's shirt. It is stylized with a hint of grain for nostalgia, and a cool bluish hue to compliment the old wood and stone of this Norwegian church. It is not a true formal portrait since I captured the bride's reaction to onlookers as she enjoyed the moment.]
Now take notice of any similarities between your selected photos. Consider any commonality of theme, style, color, mood, or feeling that first drew you to them. As you do this you will likely begin to define what is your preference in styles.
This blog will in no way be all inclusive nor comprehensive of all the artistic styles you might find. We are after all considering art and the interpretation that any given photographer may have of it. That being said, some general classifications can be made with the understanding that your photographer is an artist and will bring their own unique twist to the final look.
The Classic Style
What I call the classic style is one that includes images that are predetermined and include a set variety of formal poses of the bride and groom and wedding party. These beautiful creations were traditionally photographed in a studio, but today will also be shot on location.
The Modern-Classic or Contemporary Style
This style is similar to the classic style but with the inclusion of selected standard images of scheduled high points of the day. Most wedding photographers today shoot the formal bride photographs either in a studio or at the venue, and then get selected shots of the wedding. These can include photos of the bride and groom with their bridesmaids and groomsmen from getting ready through the ceremony and on to the reception. You can even hire a professional to cover everything from start to finish. (More on what different photographers may offer in Part 2.)
You may choose to hire a photographer who shoots the poses or stylings that are the trend of the day. Some examples of current or recent styling trends include: false mustaches being worn by members of the wedding party, the wedding couple posed behind or holding a large picture frame, groups and individuals set amongst gritty or unusual locations and/or doing fun or unexpected actions, to name just a few. You might love the work of an artist that uses coloration and styling of the images to craft an artful or mood- filled look, or you may choose one who creates a bright and light feeling to their images. Each style has its own appeal to the right viewer. Which brings us to the slippery slope issue of just who is the viewer. More on that in a moment.
[Example of a Modern-Classic style bridal party group shot. The playful informality of the portrait is a frequent feature of contemporary wedding sessions. This group shot is still referred to as a"formal" (as opposed to candid), but it has captured the personality of the subjects. I love the groom's expression.]
The Journalistic Style
Wedding photography in the journalistic style is a fairly easy style to identify and is rapidly gaining popularity. It can be described as one that captures the mood, events, emotion, grandeur, and moments as they happen and in a way that tells a story of the day from start to finish; accomplished through candid photographs. Unlike traditional wedding photographers, (whose skill is based on their ability to impose order and structure to the day as they organize the wedding party for photographs), the journalistic wedding photographer's skill is in the telling of the story. Images will not be primarily of members of the wedding party. The telling of the complete story will require the photographer to perhaps take a different approach with each wedding in order to capture the unique personalities of those in attendance.
Photo-artists who are of a purest nature in this genre will provide their client with incredibly poignant and beautiful results showing the full emotion of the day. However, these are not setup or posed photos. If you desire to have photographs that are formal or posed, this artist may not be right for you.
Formals and Candids
Formal photographs or "formals" are images of groups and individuals that are set up, staged or posed by the photographer. Portraits of the bride alone, with her groom, or group shots of the bridal party and key or selected family members fall into this category. They are most often taken directly after the ceremony, however, formals of the bride can be scheduled well before the wedding day. This method can be very beneficial to both bride and photographer. The bride can use this as a dress rehearsal; giving her the chance to see the full look of hair, make-up, gown, and perhaps even the bouquet, in advance. Her photographer has the ability to bring their "A game" by having a relaxed bride and the time to be creative and artful with the styling of her images. Providing the photo-artist with this chance to create will make an incredible difference to the final images.
Few brides would ever consider not having candids taken of the pre-ceremony preparation, ceremony, and reception. These mostly non-staged shots are the "candids" of the wedding. They capture the emotion and events of course, but also the details both large and small. Brides that invest significant time and money creating and seeing to the smallist details of their wedding will want these skillfully captured in photographs.
Candids and The Journalistic Style…all journalistic photos are candid, but not all candids are in the journalist style.
Don't confuse one with the other. Candids can be taken by guests and family members attending the wedding. However, professionals have the skill and equipment to capture candid images with the greatest degree of impact and style from start to finish. Of course the serious amateur, friend or family member, can get good to great images as well, but they are taking photographs according to their own tastes. For your wedding, the definition of what is good or great must be defined by the bride and groom. What price satisfaction, how much are you willing to pay, and most importantly what are you paying for? I will address the professional photographer and what to consider when selecting one in Part 2. For now, let's continue to address selecting a style.
Who is the viewer…the difficulty of a possibly well-meaning influence.
Wedding photographs that are well taken and in a style that appeal to the bride and groom will become a source of cherished memories. Long after the special day and as details start to fade, your photographs will provide the episodic memory trigger to transport you back to all of the joy of that moment.
So what will you want to see? What is the most likely kind of image that will provide you the strongest stimulation? This is where well-meaning suggestions may turn into pressure as to what your wedding photos should look like.
Like most things, wedding photography has a trend of the day. In my opinion no one trend is better then another, but some are more timeless. What do you think you will love to see ten or twenty years from now? The classic bride or bride&groom formals make great art works for the wall. Humorous photos that were well crafted will delight and photos that tell the story of the full range of emotion will move the viewer back to the day and feelings of the moment.
As you continue your search to find your style and eventually communicate with a wedding photographer, remember it is you the bride and groom who will cherish most the images captured of your day. Consider the counsel given to you by family or friends as to how the wedding should be photographed. But, if you are prepared with an understanding of your desires, which are supported by your research on the different styles, you can feel good about what you have chosen for your look. As to some thoughts on selecting the right photographer, I will share that in Part 2 here on my blog.
Richard von Trapp is a photographer in Texas who travels the world creating works that are glamorous and beautiful with inspiration taken from fashion-magizines and with cinematic styling.
Dramatic Clouds and Glamour...A Stormy Day Creates an Opportunity to Create.
Rain and dramatic clouds offered the perfect setting for creating this stylized fine art photograph which was inspired by images from the iconic Hollywood classics, The Wizard of Oz and Singing in the Rain.
Photographed near San Antonio, we raced out to this spot when the rain clouds gathered and was able to capture this dramatic shot. As the rain fell we set up our strobes and lighting modifiers and quickly styled this shot. Balancing on the wet railroad track was hard enough, but was made even mort challenging by the wind that was blowing.
The clouds seen here existed as they appear. However, the stylized coloration of a light and eery green were added in post-processing. I wanted to suggest the possibility of a building tornado, threatening to carry off my modern day Dorothy.
The surreal like quality to the light of what one might think is associated with a coming tornado is carried over into the bright yellow patch of grass. The rain drops can be seen falling, having been captured with the aid of the strobe. So too can the water droplets be seen on the umbrella.
My "Dorothy" incorporates the sense of carefree indifference to the elements of Gene Kelly in the movie "Singing In The Rain" with her attitude and seemingly lack of concern for the coming storm.
I am Richard von Trapp and I am a Photo Artist specializing in creating evocative Glamour, Boudoir, Wedding and Senior Portraits.
I use the terms editorial and glamour to describe the style of many of my images. In the world of magazine photography, the term editorial is used to describe a style of photograph where its look and feeling is crafted to tell a story or to support a written story being told. The definition is fluid and can even be a broadly defined one in how one sector of the print media-world will see/use it as compared to another sector. Suffice it to say, editorial photography "sells a story", where as fashion photography "sells a lifestyle", and commercial photography "sells a product".
In sharp contrast to commercial photography, where the look is clean and well lit, fashion and editorial photography is bold, edgy, and conceptual in its design styling, often being dramatically lit. It is...dare I say it, "arty". It is also great fun and challenging to create for everyone involved. It is for this reason that skilled and capable photographers love to create art in this form. Professional models too enjoy the chance to be "arty" and seek this kind of shoot to add depth to their portfolio and show their versatility.
One of the key elements of style often seen in editorial images is dramatic lighting. Since we become accustomed to the light seen in nature, its look and feel, the creation of something different thus becomes interesting to a viewer. This is why a skilled artist will use light sources, such as those available in the form of photographic lighting, to create a feeling of light that is not normally seen nor available in the natural world. This crafted light can be many times more dramatic and harsh, or beautiful and soft when compared to what is normally seen in our everyday lives.
This image was crafted in the editorial style with strong lighting, an artfully posed model placed in an unusual interesting setting.
Because the light is so unusual we are compelled to look a little longer. We may even ponder for a while the different aspects of the image, what it means, where it was made, how it was made, or any other number of even more pithy concepts. We may look at it not really analyzing it at all, just knowing that we are drawn to it for some reason.
"Selling" a lifestyle can be said to be the main idea behind fashion photography. The goal of fashion photography is to convey a way of life through the use of cloths, goods, and items of property in such a way as to show them to be highly desirable.
Fashion shoot in San Antonio, drawing inspiration from Italian fashion.
So it is not just about the clothes…it is about the style in which life is lived.
That which is said to have glamour really is being described as having not just beauty, but also grace, mystery, and transcendence. This is what glamour photography is to me. Creating grace and mystery in a photograph, however, is less challenging than making an image that also has transcendence from the every day of life.
In the image below, one can appreciate the beauty and grace of the model in her pose. The dark glasses and her gaze away from the camera easily add the mystery. What is perhaps not so apparent about this image is what makes this image transcendent, nor how it was accomplished.
This photo was created in the mid morning, outside on an overcast day. One way to create transcendence from our every day life is to alter the look and feel of the lighting that we see in the image. The light upon the model was carefully crafted to fall upon her in this particular way. Selected locations within the image were highlighted so as to draw our attention or to deemphasize other parts of the photograph. Daylight was "overpowered" by the intensity of the strobes and camera settings to give this shot its increased drama. The darkened background serves to draw the viewer's attention to the model and her clothes, and away from the background. Note the way the colors of her dress and pumps leap off of the screen creating a very special look and feeling, which is something not normal to what we see everyday.
For this category, I endeavor to create an amalgam between the story contained within an editorial image with the mystery, grace, and transcendence of a glamour image to make editorial glamour.
In the photograph above the setting is a fabulously edgy building in the town of Sanderson Texas located some 270 miles west of San Antonio. The story could by about the once hopeful dreams of making a way of life in this arid locale, and about how many residents are still endeavoring to do so. All kinds of interpretive metaphors can be made about the model's pose and expression as to how it pertains to a story of struggle and determination. Which is what makes this an editorial image. The edgy-mystery of her expression, the graceful pose and unique lighting is the glamour.
The next time you peruse through a magazine, take a moment to ponder the nature and meaning of the art in front of you. The degree of difficulty and work that went into creating the images you see will likely never be known to you, for it is the experience of years that you behold. Please do, however, see these works of creative ability for what the are, works of art both small and large. They are ones that were produced through the passion and abilities of many individuals who committed a considerable amount of effort to their creation.
Von Trapp Photography recently returned to Enchanted Rock for another day-long outdoor glamour photo shoot. Enchanted Rock State Park is located 17 miles north of Fredericksburg on FM 965 and is easily accessed from Austin and San Antonio in a little more then 2 hours. The stark beauty of the pink granite and the warm color of the light found there makes for truly beautiful and glamorous images.
We packed up our lighting and camera equipment and made out way there on a mid-fall day to create some fashion glamour images amongst the cliffs and stone monoliths found in the park. The location required us to backpack in our lighting and photographic gear, wardrobe and water, but the scenery is well worth the effort.
Our planned time for the shoot was set for the late afternoon all the way up to an hour before sunset. This allowed us to get the great late afternoon shadows of this fall day, and still be moving off of the mountain while we had enough light to see. We had a good idea of what locations on the mountain we would use, but some final recon was still needed to pinpoint each spot. We chose to set up two thirds of the way up the mountain, and moved four times to locations over the length of a football field to get this day's images.
The first location was here in this small canyon pictured below. The shot called for a two light setup. One strobe with a beauty dish on a boom arm, the other without a modifier and placed in the rocks behind the model to provide the lovely rim light seen along her hair, back, and hip. This rimming of a woman's figure both serves to separate her from the background and beckons the viewer's eye to follow the line of her body. The power of these lights was balanced to complement the lovely soft light illuminating the canyon from above while still adding contrast and interest to the image.
Our lighting equipment included 3 Profoto D1's, a soft box with grid, beauty dish, light stands, boom arm, sandbags (to steady the light stands and boom), cables, and a 26 lb Profoto battery in its own backpack. We shot with a Canon 5D MkII with 24-70 f2.8L zoom and Canon 200 f2L telephoto. Our model had several outfits complete with shoes/boots, accessories, makeup, and a good set of hiking boots and clothes for the trek in and out. We also carried basic emergency equipment should we have been delayed getting off of the mountain in daylight. For the Image above it was necessary to bury the power cable leading from the power pack, which was off camera, to the strobe in the rocks behind the model. This light was fired by a radio trigger.
In all cases of remote location shooting, wardrobe changes are accomplished in a somewhat spartan manner. The best case would allow for a changing tent. Often a heavyweight space blanket is all that can be setup and on this occasion a convenient bolder or bush sufficed. Professional models are accustomed to such conditions. Clients, however, sometimes have to be prepared for the challenge of what their chosen concept shoot will bring. But I have yet to encounter a client who is not up to the task, nor one who doesn't have a terrific time and wonderful experience.
Von Trapp Photography specializes in creating uniquely beautiful glamour, boudoir, and high school senior images that standout from the rest. Our style is modern, fashion-inspired, and cinematic. Whether we are creating evocative and sexy boudoir and glamour images, or edgy high school senior portraits, our artistry will be evident to you and be a great investment.
Contact us so that we may delight you with one of a kind images that will connect you to your glamour.
Creating Magazine-Style Glamour at the Beach | What it takes to create beautiful glamour images. You deserve more then a "selfie"!
In a time when the "selfie" is so easy and popular why would anyone ever consider having a professional photographer photograph them? The ability to capture spontaneous self images has been made possible by the high megapixel cameras found in any current smartphone, and everyone is doing it! Yes even this dedicated professional! You get sharp images taken in lowlight that look very good. Very good on a 3 to 4 inch screen that is!
Few people, however, understand that the hype they hear about 18, 20, 40 and more megapixels is only part of the picture. The sensor in our, now even larger, smart phones is very small compared to that found in a professional full-sized DSLR camera. A small sensor with a lot of megapixels does not create a highly sharp image when enlarged much beyond the size of the screen it was taken on. The Digital Single Lens Reflex camera's sensor is many time larger then a smart phone. As such, a professional grade 18 to 21 megapixel, full-sized DSLR will deliver images of a terrific quality. But the "selfie culture" that has taken hold likely leads one to question, even if only in the subconscious, why should I pay hundreds of dollars for photographs when I can just…selfie!
On location in Port Aransas Texas. The passing showers posed a challenge to keeping our gear dry, but also afforded us the fantastic light and background for this beach glamour shoot.
The question has merit. You will easily pay from $500 to $2000 for a high quality glamour or boudoir portrait session and products, and a bit less for a high school senior shoot. Consider, however, that a professional photographer will have invested many thousands of dollars on cameras, lenses, computers, hardwear, software, lighting equipment and near countless other items that make it possible for them to do what they do best. Not to mention their education and what they bring in the way of experience and creative talent and vision.
Using our smart phone to grab a quick shot of something that we wish to send to family or friends is one thing. But is it ever anything that is meant to be saved or cherished? It certainly is never meant to be art!
Moody and evocative. The styling of this glamour image encourages the viewer to feel the sensations of this moment. Well crafted glamour photographs have beauty, grace, mystery and are transcendent of the everyday.
Sadly every day so many women will selfie and unthinkingly accept a third rate image of themselves. They will be "happy" with what they have and go on with life…likely never to know the feeling of what it is like to be glamorously photographed. It is true that we "don't know what we don't know", so she continues to exist in blissful ignorance, totally missing out on the life-changing experience of connecting to her glamour and beauty. A professionally photographed glamour or boudoir portrait session will change the way you feel and see yourself. It can change your life.
Stop missing out on the truly incredible experience of taking part in a model shoot. Even more significant is being treated to the elation of seeing yourself as you have never seen yourself before. A superbly planned, expertly crafted glamour or boudoir photograph of yourself will impress, amaze and touch you in ways that you never imagined.
See yourself in a way that is so removed from the daily you by being a glamorous work of art, having been connected to your glamour.