Nothing Suits Him Like A Suit
Photography Props Adds Context
Written on the 19th of November, 2022
I embarked on a project to capture the essence of Classic Hollywood portraiture during a photoshoot with my talented friend, Ali AlKhayat. To evoke that timeless cinematic aesthetic, I meticulously designed the lighting using two fresnel continuous lights, which are instrumental in creating dramatic shadows reminiscent of the golden age of film.
To give you a clearer picture of my setup, I've included a diagram below that outlines the precise positioning of the lights, demonstrating how I achieved that coveted Classic Hollywood look with elegance and sophistication.
For this photoshoot, I incorporated the use of a pack of cigarettes alongside a realistic-looking toy gun as props. These carefully chosen items not only contributed a layer of intrigue to the composition but also helped establish a dramatic, cinematic atmosphere that drew viewers into the narrative of the image. The smoky allure of the cigarettes and the sleek design of the toy gun evoked a sense of nostalgia, making each shot more visually captivating and contextually rich.
The initial concept was to capture the entire shoot in classic black and white, aiming for a timeless aesthetic emphasizing contrast and texture. However, during the process, I was pleasantly surprised to find that several images emerged with stunning colour that added an unexpected depth and vibrancy. This delightful outcome reinforces my decision to always shoot in RAW format, as it preserves the full spectrum of colours in each shot, allowing for flexibility in post-production if I decide to incorporate those vivid hues later.
As I reviewed the shot, it dawned on me that I had positioned my light source too far from my subject's gaze, causing the catchlight in his eyes to disappear. However, the unintended consequence of this oversight was surprisingly captivating. The shadows cast across his face added a striking, dramatic flair, giving him an air of intensity reminiscent of a formidable movie villain. The way the low light sculpted his features contributed to a mood that was both intriguing and slightly ominous. It's fascinating how a simple miscalculation can lead to an outcome that exceeds expectations and transforms an ordinary portrait into something evocative and memorable.
The Gear I Used
