The Look
This look is particularly popular among my returning boudoir clients who are expecting. It captures the mother-to-be in a radiant light, standing by a window. The look can be either sexy or simply beautiful and serene, depending on the mood you want to convey.
The Setup
- Backdrop: I use four sheer curtain panels looped onto a backdrop stand rod, with a large white sheet of muslin clamped behind them for added opacity.
- Lighting: One light (light #2) is positioned behind the backdrop to mimic sunlight, while another light (light #1) is placed in front of the subject at camera right. Alternatively, the “window light” can serve as the key and the other light can be placed in a kicker position farther behind the subject.
Posing
- I inform the subject that the shot will appear as if she’s standing in front of a sunlit window, even though we’re in a studio setting.
- I ask her to imagine she’s on the second floor of her home, looking down at the street.
- She stands at an angle toward the camera and bends one knee to add dynamism to the pose.
- She can pull the “curtain” aside as if she’s peering outside.
- Some shots will have her turning her head and gaze back at the camera.
- For the “belly” shot, she places one hand above and one hand below her belly in a loving manner.
My Gear & Settings
- Flash units at or near equal power, modified with 42” shoot-through umbrellas
- 50mm lens
- f/4.0 aperture
- 1/250 shutter speed
- ISO 100
Post-Processing
Standard processing is generally used, although sometimes I opt for a little less contrast to give the image a softer look.
Tips for Success
- Backdrop: Use sheer curtains and a white muslin sheet to create the window effect.
- Imagination: Encourage your subject to imagine a specific setting to help her get into the character of the shot.
- Dynamic Pose: A slight bend in the knee can make a world of difference in avoiding a stiff look.
- Lighting: The light behind the backdrop is crucial for mimicking sunlight and adding depth to the shot.