Intimate male portraiture – two perspectives
This video clip and photo shoot are the results of a discussion with a friend, Cate Scaglione, one of New Jersey’s best boudoir photographers. At a photography convention, the topic came up whether male and female photographers approach their subjects differently (whether male or female). My take on this is that there is such a diverse range in styles and skill levels, that it would be impossible to make any clear grouping on styles depending on the photographer’s gender. Cate believes this does have an influence. And from that, the idea for this shoot originated.
Nick is a New York based actor and model, and Cate’s client. Cate was tasked with building up his portfolio … and with his good looks and willingness to take part in our idea, it all came together as a photo shoot in Cate’s studio. One model, one studio, two photographers with difference styles and approaches. This is of course explained in our intro to the video.
What followed was this behind-the-scences video clip, showing how we worked with Nick. Cate and I shot separately, with no idea what the other was going to do. Cate shot during the day, using available light only in her studio. By the time it was my turn to photograph Nick, it was dark already. Not an issue – I wanted to use my trusty portable lighting kit, based on two Profoto B1 flashes (affiliate). I had the intention of making the photos moody with a touch of dramatic light. My style tends to be very much portrait based. Portrait-y if you want. Cate’s style is different, as you can clearly see.
Anyway, have a look! Hopefully the clip is both entertaining and have some snippets of info. There is also an additional article where I discuss techie details and my lighting setups throughout my part of this photo shoot. Oh, and if you’re confused about my T-shirt in the video – it’s the rocket from Tin Tin – Explorers on the Moon (Amazon).
- Intimate male portraiture – Neil vN – photo session with Nick
Photo gear used during my part of this photo session
- Nikon D5
- Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8E VR /equivalent Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II
- (2x) Profoto B1 TTL flash (B&H / Amazon)
- gridded Profoto RFi 1’×6’ softbox (B&H / Amazon)
- gridded Profoto RFi 1’×3’ softbox (B&H / Amazon)
- Profoto Magnum reflector (B&H / Amazon)
- (2x) Manfrotto 1004BAC light stand
A lot more detail here: Photo session – Intimate Male Portraiture w/ Nick Mathews
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Thanks for sharing. Very interesting to see how two other photographers approach things. I also have to add my opinion in that I believe that males and females do photograph differently. For the most part, we inherently find different things sexy and bring those out in our photos in this type of genre and for what I do. I definitely photograph bodies and athletes differently than my male counterparts.
Loved seeing the contrasting styles — in lighting, posing, and directing the model – between you and Cate. Although you two could have switched roles (you shooting with natural light, and Cate with strobes), what was apparent to me is how you both chose a style of shooting AND lighting that showcased your own photographic style. From the more romantic, intimate, slightly playful perspective that Cate brings, to the manly, strong, dramatic perspective that you bring. A perfect combination for a killer portfolio for this client. Well done, and terrific video!
I too feel that there are inherent differences in the way male and female photographers approach their art. However, is it at all different for any two photographers, regardless of gender? Boudoir photography throws a little spin on this idea but, is it any less likely for a female to adopt a masculine edge in their style or a male photographer to lean softer and more feminine as demanded by any given subject or job?
So… I now take back my first sentence!
Female or male, it can’t make for a consistent difference where either is a better choice given the gender of the subject or the nature of the desired result.
That was a really good video, Cate and Neil. Thanks
I (a female photographer) have shot side by side with many photographers (mostly as a cost-effective measure). Even with the same lighting setup during the same shoot, each photographer (regardless of gender) will direct the model differently to yield different results; however, in my experience, the gender difference in the photographers produces more disparate results.
Very informative video Neil, thank you! It is great to see both styles and how each of you approach the same subject.
Awesome post! Thanks for sharing! And I agree–I think that male and female photographers approach their art in different ways, in particular when photographing portraits. This post is a must-see and must-read for any portrait photographer, I think. An eye-opener in so many ways. Fantastic hands-on tips and advice on dudeoir photography, including lighting (love Profoto!) and posing.
Great video and post! Simply the best.
Where can I get a similar model?
interesting to see the two completely different styles. Enjoyed watching thanks !