I was recently commissioned to do a job for LJ Levi (for their internal use). The brief was simple, to capture the happy couple that have just sold a property. My agent told me that there will be two professional models on site ready for the shoot. I did not think too much about the word “PRO” but what striked me was that they charge $500/hr each. (more like $250/hr + travel), why would someone pay or charge that much is beyond me, not until later that I would realise why.
When I got to location, the models were already there. They look to be in their late 30′s who seem nice, laughing and giggling to among themselves. I said “hi” and went on to set up my lights. The sun was strong so I had to set up the 600W to combat the shadow. I metered the light, fireed a couple off, then I called them over and said to them that I will need to take a few test shot before we start. I told them to be themselves, relax, keep the conversation going between themselves. I took a few shots, images looks good.
It’s time to start: I told them to get ready. They start to get themselves in position, the male model put his arm around the female, they smile giggle, “look happy” and relax without me having to say a word.
CLICK
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CLICK
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CLIKC
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Look at the images and though to myself “WOW, these are pretty good, we can call it a day…” But because they cost $500 each + my fee + the graphic design’s creative direction fee, I could not being myself to stop there, so we had to try different poses, angles, etc. We kept going for about 30min before I am more than sure that we got the shot we needed.
The funny thing is, the client did actually picked the 2nd shot from that day! Working with pros has definately made my job easier.
