Portrait Photography How To

Yes, being a photographer for a bikini catalog shoot is a real job. (Hey, somebody's got to do it, right?) So, if you ever find yourself working this "difficult" paid photography gig, you're going to need to know how to pose your bikini model to get optimal shots.

If you’re a pet owner you undoubtedly shoot countless photos of your loyal friends.  Even pros take time out of assignments to photograph their beloved fur babies.

Portrait photographers are always keen to capture their subjects in the best light. One common request from the people you are photographing is to make them look thinner.

There are numerous “rules” of photography and some are meant to be broken—including a few of the most familiar. But as you’ll see in the eye-opening video below from a trusted pro, you can avoid sabotaging images by using an oft-ignored trick.

We’ve all been taught to avoid shooting in direct sunlight whenever possible, to avoid blown-out highlights, harsh contrast, washed-out colors, unflattering shadows, and models with squinty eyes. In the shooting and editing tutorial below, you’ll earn how to meet these challenges and achieve beautiful photos.

Editor’s Note: The imaging world has lost a spark of brilliance with the passing of legendary photographer and beloved friend Douglas Kirkland at the young age of 88. In his memory we’re re-posting our 2017 article with a selection of Douglas’ iconic images and a video revealing the secrets behind his photos of the rich and famous.

Shutterbug readers know their way around a camera and consistently shoot really nice images. But if you want to make the leap from “good” to “amazing,” the video below is just what you need.