How to Do Tasteful Nude Photography

Artists have been enchanted by the nude form of the human body since the dawn of time. Nudes feature heavily in statues and paintings through the ages. The relatively new art form of photography offers even more possibilities for creating nude art. But with the prevalance of pornography and tacky glamour photography, it is important to steer clear of anything sleazy.

If you want to create nude photos in a tasteful, artistic way, the secret is to take sex out of it. As soon as it looks like your model is trying to look sexy, the photo will start to look tacky. Trying to look sexy works fine in clothed photos - as seen everywhere in advertising. But a nude model trying to look sexy sends a clear message to the viewer that the aim of the photo is to titilate. If you want your photo to look artistic then make sure your model isn't trying to look sexy.

An easy way to stop your nude photo from looking 'glam' is by having the model look away. Virtually all tacky glamour photos have the model looking at the camera. So have her instead gaze off into the distance. Direct her to look 'lost in thought'. Instantly it'll look more artistic and 'soulful'.

If you must have her looking at the camera, get her to look moody... Anything but sexy! If you look at European fashion, models like Kate Moss are often scowling in photos. Try to tell a story, show emotion. Your model's instincts may be to pout and try to look seductive... Guide her to more interesting expressions if she's looking at the camera, or to just look tranced out and dreamy when she's looking away.

You can even frame the photo so that the model's face isn't in the picture. Then the body becomes an abstract shape rather than a person. Or have her head in the shot but angled so her face isn't visible. Without an obvious face showing, the photo will become a study of shape and line.

The other important consideration is the lighting. 'Page 3' photos are always well lit, with a bright background, and this isn't what you want. It's almost impossible to do anything artistic with too much light. What you need is atmosphere, and for that you need shadows. So position your model so the dominant light source is to the side or even behind her. Create shadows. Leave some of the nudity to the imagination.

Finding Models for Nude Photography

There are many places where you can find a suitable nude model to photograph, whether for commercial glamour, beauty or fine art nudes.

The first and most obvious place to look will be an established model agency, where you are likely to find experienced and professional models that are well adapted to your particular job requirements. This is my preferred choice most of the time and the way that most professional photographers work.

Alternatively there are Internet communities where models and photographers tend to meet online. These are large websites where people post images, make contacts and look to improve their portfolios etc. This is not my favourite method of looking for models, since I tend to think they are far less reliable in general and often unaware of normal business practices; making up their own rules as they go along.

The most common headaches with Internet models are last minute cancellations or simply deciding to disappear without a word, which could leave you on the day with the nightmare of an expensive studio and makeup etc. but no model to photograph!

For artistic nudes don't forget options such as dance schools where you can often find very interesting potential subjects. As dancers they will tend to be in great shape and move well with a natural fluid grace, which can help you to produce some really striking images. In many cases the images can actually be superior to those obtained with professional models.

Gymnasts or other athletes are also well worth considering since they tend to be fairly confident about the shape and condition of their body, so they are less likely to be nervous in front of the camera.

Useful Tips When Modelling or Posing for Nude Photography

There is something about a nude photograph that captures the mind and soul, allowing your deeper intellect to understand the natural beauty of a human body's curves, lines, and shape. A nude photograph may appeal to everyone, but for the daring and artistic, it is a beautiful portrait. Today, there are many studios that offer nude photography. You do not have to be a model or a celebrity to be photographed this way. Anyone can pose nude and be photographed rather tastefully.

Nevertheless, the thought of posing without clothes on and be photographed scares most of us. To help you relax and be the best at your nude photography session, here are some simple, useful tips.

1. Prepare the night before or wake up earlier than usual and have a nice relaxing hot shower. This relaxes your body and mind. While you are at it, exfoliate, scrub, and moisturise your skin. You may need to shave or wax, and this better be done at night. Waxing, plucking, or shaving may leave your skin raw so these should be done hours ahead to allow your skin to recuperate. Although nude photography is not entirely about how flawless your skin is, it is a great idea to look at your best for the photoshoot. Preparing this way helps condition your mind and knowing you have a well groomed body makes you feel confident in front of the camera. Use a sheer moisturising lotion or shimmering body lotion to make your skin glow.

2. Exercise or work out days or weeks prior to your nude photography session. This helps tone your muscles and body. This also helps create shadows and contours on the body. On the day of the shoot itself, a quick workout is a great idea to help you liven up your mind and body. The increased blood flow on your body will give it a nice natural glow.

3. Opt to be photographed anonymously. Tell the photographer not to photograph your face, or take shots that show the sides of your face. Most of the time, a face looks much photogenic when turned away from the camera. It allows the lines on the jaws, the chin, and the bridge of the nose be captured. Unlike portrait photography, nude portraits are not entirely about the face. The focus of nude photography is the human body itself and how beautiful it looks in its natural form. Also, knowing that your face isn't showing in photos helps you focus on your posture or pose, rather than being conscious.

4. Relax and be confident. You can keep your poses simple if you are not accustomed to arching your body or doing poses that require too much flexibility. Be carefree and think about happy thoughts and beautiful memories.