2: Tyler McAuley Photo Breakdown
Photographer: Tyler McAuley
Model: Kate McDonald
Link to original photo on Instagram
As always, my comments in italics.
To recreate the striking photo you provided, here's a comprehensive guide covering framing, camera settings, model directions, lighting, and editing.
Framing
Pose: The model is captured mid-jump, with arms outstretched and legs bent. This dynamic pose creates a sense of motion and tension.
Angle: The camera is positioned at a slightly lower angle to emphasize the height of the jump and add drama to the image.
Composition: The model is centered in the frame, with the alley walls providing leading lines that draw the viewer’s eye to the subject.
Camera Settings
Aperture (f-stop): Use a medium aperture (e.g., f/4 to f/8) to ensure both the model and some background details are in focus.
Shutter Speed: A fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/500 or faster) is crucial to freeze the motion of the jump.
ISO: Set a low to medium ISO (e.g., 100-400) depending on the lighting conditions to maintain image quality and reduce noise.
Lens: A medium telephoto lens (e.g., 50mm to 85mm) will provide a natural perspective and allow for good subject isolation.
Model Directions
Jumping Pose: Instruct the model to jump and hold the pose mid-air with legs bent and arms outstretched to touch the walls. I think the coach is correct that she’s holding the pose, as difficult as that is, rather than slapping the wall mid-jump. One thing it’s missing is that she must also be shaking her head to make her hair look like that.
Expression: Encourage a strong, confident expression with a focus on the face’s direction, adding to the intensity of the shot.
Repetition: Have the model repeat the jump several times to capture the perfect moment.
Lighting
Natural Light: Utilize natural light available in the alley. Shoot during times when the light is softer, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid harsh shadows.
Reflectors: Use reflectors to bounce light onto the model if needed, especially to fill in shadows on the face and body.
Ambient Light: Take advantage of any ambient light sources in the alley, such as light reflecting off walls or from nearby windows.
Editing
Black and White Conversion: Convert the image to black and white to emphasize textures and contrasts. This can be done in post-processing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop.
Contrast and Clarity: Increase the contrast and clarity to bring out the details in the brick walls and the model’s features.
Sharpening: Apply selective sharpening to the model, particularly around the edges, to enhance the sense of motion.
Dodging and Burning: Use dodging and burning to highlight the model and create depth. Lighten areas that need more attention and darken the surroundings to focus on the subject.
Crop and Align: Ensure the image is properly aligned and cropped to maintain the model's central position and the leading lines of the alley.
Additional Tips
Preparation: Scout the location beforehand to determine the best angles and light conditions. Ensure the alley is safe and suitable for the model’s jumps.
Practice Shots: Take practice shots to fine-tune the camera settings and lighting before the actual shoot.
Safety: Ensure the model warms up properly and is comfortable with the jumps to prevent injuries.
By following these detailed steps, you can recreate a dynamic and captivating image similar to the one you provided.
I asked it for more detailed posing and directing instructions. Here’s what it gave me.
To direct the model into the dynamic and dramatic pose shown in the photo, follow these detailed steps:
Initial Setup:
Choose a narrow alley or similar location where the model can use the walls for support.
Ensure the area is safe for jumping and that the model is comfortable and confident with the environment.
Positioning the Model:
Ask the model to stand in the middle of the alley, facing one of the walls.
Preparing for the Jump:
Have the model place her hands on the walls on either side of her. Her arms should be slightly bent to provide support and balance during the jump.
Ensure her feet are placed together, ready to push off the ground for the jump.
Jump Execution:
Instruct the model to jump upwards, bringing her knees towards her chest while keeping her feet pointed. This will create the elegant, ballet-like pose captured in mid-air.
Encourage the model to use her arms for balance by pushing against the walls. Her hands should remain in contact with the walls during the jump for stability.
Torso and Hip Position:
Ensure the model maintains an upright torso during the jump, with a slight arch in her back to create a graceful curve.
Her hips should be lifted to accentuate the leap and create a sense of height.
Head and Facial Direction:
Direct the model to turn her head slightly to one side, with her gaze directed away from the camera. This adds a sense of motion and elegance to the pose.
Encourage a natural and relaxed facial expression, reflecting focus and grace.
Final Adjustments and Refinements:
Ensure the model’s body remains aligned and that her movements are fluid and graceful.
Take multiple shots in burst mode to capture the perfect moment in mid-air, ensuring all elements of the pose are in place.
Posing Script
“Stand in the middle of the alley, facing the wall on your right.”
“Place your hands on the walls for support, with your arms slightly bent.”
“Prepare to jump by placing your feet together and ready to push off the ground.”
“Jump upwards, bringing your knees towards your chest and keeping your feet pointed.”
“Use your arms to push against the walls for balance and stability.”
“Keep your torso upright with a slight arch in your back.”
“Turn your head slightly to the left, looking away from the camera.”
“Maintain a natural and relaxed expression on your face.”
Visual and Verbal Guidance
Demonstrate the jump and pose if possible, showing the model how to use the walls for support and balance.
Continuously communicate with the model, offering encouragement and feedback to help her feel confident and graceful in the pose.
Final Tips
Ensure the model warms up properly before attempting the jump to prevent injuries.
Be patient and give the model time to perfect the jump and pose.
Use burst mode on your camera to capture multiple frames per second, increasing the chances of getting the perfect shot.
Adjust the lighting and camera angle as needed to ensure the pose is captured perfectly.
