The Artistic Nude Photograph

Since the first time man scratched a drawing on a cave wall, the ultimate subject for many artists is that of the nude human form.

With the advent of photography, especially digital photography, the human form has been explored in ways that were just simply not possible before. By manipulating light and shadow, a complex picture can be created by the simplest of setups.

Since the subject of the art is going to be the figure, a plain background is often the best. This will show the body as a whole object, uncluttered by visual items that are not necessary to convey the focus of the shot. Scrims (colored cloths) or plain sheet paper may be employed to serve in this function, whether draped or laid out flat.

The lighting is of paramount importance, at least one heavy light source is required, and a fill light to soften the edges and keep the deep shadows from overwriting the figure. This can be done easily with natural sunlight ,and one reflective surface or strobe.

Using a step ladder can bring a new dimension to the figure, by holding the camera above the model, new shadows are cast in relief, and a different dynamic sets in, making the shot a little more on the edge.

Posing the model can be difficult at first, you will need to adjust the light balance on your camera to take in different skin tones and cast light from the flash and reflectors. It is a really good idea to take a number of test photos, and check them for clarity and lighting prior to doing the whole shoot series.

With some test shots done, it should be no problem to adjust the model and lights as necessary to create a one of a kind artistic nude, that anyone would be proud to have on their wall...even if it is a cave wall.

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