8: Taylor Nicole for Ego Clothing

Model: Taylor Nicole

Photographer uncredited

Clothing brand: Ego

Note how the AI takes note of the visible reflections from the lights and use them to help infer the lighting setup.

Framing

1. Pose:

   • The model is posed in a confident manner, holding the phone to her ear with one hand while slightly tilting her head.

   • The positioning of the model in the phone booth adds a nostalgic and urban element to the image.

2. Angle:

   • The camera is positioned at eye level with the model, capturing her face and upper body in detail.

   • The close-up perspective ensures the focus is on the model, with the phone booth framing her.

3. Composition:

   • The model is centered in the frame, with the phone booth's structure creating natural borders.

   • The background elements, such as the city street, add context without distracting from the model.

Camera Settings

1. Aperture (f-stop):

   • Use a medium aperture (e.g., f/4 to f/5.6) to ensure both the model and the background are in focus, providing a sense of location.

2. Shutter Speed:

   • A moderate shutter speed (e.g., 1/125 to 1/200) to capture the model sharply, given the controlled environment.

3. ISO:

   • Set a low to medium ISO (e.g., 100-800) depending on the lighting conditions to maintain image quality and reduce noise.

4. Lens:

   • A standard lens (e.g., 35mm to 50mm) is ideal for capturing the model in a natural perspective within the phone booth.

Subject Directions

1. Pose and Interaction:

   • Direct the model to interact naturally with the phone, adding authenticity to the pose. The confident stance and direct gaze enhance the overall impact.

   • The model’s hand placement and slight tilt of the head add a dynamic element to the pose.

2. Expressions:

   • Encourage a relaxed yet confident expression. The model’s slight smirk and direct eye contact with the camera create a strong connection with the viewer.

Lighting

1. Main Light:

   • Use a softbox or beauty dish positioned slightly above and to the side of the model to create soft, even lighting on the face.

   • Ensure the light is diffused to minimize harsh shadows and highlight the model’s features.

2. Fill Light:

   • A reflector or a second light source on the opposite side can fill in shadows and balance the lighting on the model.

   • Additional lights can be used to illuminate the phone booth interior, ensuring all details are visible.

3. Ambient Light:

   • Utilize the ambient light from the city street to add depth and context to the background.

   • Be mindful of any reflective surfaces in the phone booth that can catch and reflect light back onto the model.

Editing

1. Color Grading:

   • Adjust the colors to enhance the vibrancy of the model’s outfit and the red phone booth. Increase saturation slightly for a more vibrant look.

   • Apply a slight color tint to the shadows and highlights to create a cohesive color scheme.

2. Contrast and Clarity:

   • Increase contrast and clarity to bring out details in the model’s face, outfit, and the phone booth.

   • Use selective adjustments to enhance the sharpness of the eyes, lips, and accessories.

3. Skin Retouching:

   • Use frequency separation or dodge and burn techniques to smooth out skin imperfections while maintaining natural texture.

   • Enhance the highlights on the cheekbones, nose, and lips to add dimension.

4. Background Adjustment:

   • Ensure the background is slightly blurred to keep the focus on the model while still providing context.

   • Use masking tools to refine the edges around the model and the phone booth.

Practical Steps for a Similar Photo

1. Location Scouting:

   • Find a vintage phone booth in an urban setting that adds character and context to the image.

2. Model Preparation:

   • Brief the model on the pose and interaction you’re aiming for. Use props like bold sunglasses and statement jewelry to add character.

3. Lighting Setup:

   • Conduct lighting tests to ensure the setup creates the desired soft, even lighting on the model and the phone booth interior.

4. Continuous Shooting:

   • Use continuous shooting mode to capture multiple frames and choose the best shot from the series.

5. Post-Processing:

   • Spend time in post-processing to fine-tune the colors, contrast, and details, ensuring the final image has a polished and professional look.