Gathering Props and Costumes for Exotic Photography by Tanya Vorgan
If you’re a beginning photographer in this field, I feel for you; the very best among us have been new at some point. So do yourself a favor, and take it easy on your pocket book whenever you can. If you can borrow or rent clothes, fabric and props so much the better. Additionally, let your circle of friends know what you are doing, ask them for help as an assistant or to lend things you need. I can almost guarantee they will express an interest in your work. This will lead to more questions, and more importantly, gossip about what you’ve been doing with your camera lately.
Where to begin? The good Lord is most apt to help those that help themselves, so look around your house, but be sure to take your imagination along with you as you do. You’ll be surprized at what can be used in your photography, and so many ordinary outfits, including mens’ clothing can transform and transport your model’s appearance.
Before giving down-to-earth suggestions, I recommend including your model’s ideas and clothes to save money. She or he will often have a good idea what looks good for them, and it’s so important that they feel good and comfortable about the sitting. How can they if you insist on something they don’t like? Frankly, it will mar the shoot, and will show in their face. You want, above all, happy and content men and women in your shoots.
Here’s some ideas from which I would encourage you to expand and develop on your own:
* A guy’s shirt and tie. I like a white shirt and a simple or ‘rep’ style tie.
* A t-shirt, especially a thin or white color which can sprayed wet or dipped in water.
* For the somewhat bashful, a bikini can be a good start over lingerie until you see more confidence is your subject’s manner.
* When I use the word “overalls” think of all the kinds of overalls there are, and imagine what it would look like without anything else worn underneath.
* Vintage lingerie can add reborn charm to your model’s appearance. There are some gorgeous old pieces that you’d wish they would bring back.
* On the other hand, don’t forget the charm potential of an ordinary towel.
* An umbrella for outdoor rainy or dark days, though it could be adapted for indoor concepts.
* Night or evening gown for a softer, more sensual and inviting photo set.
* Short shorts and a crop top for outdoor adventures.
* Try mixing lingerie with regular clothes. You may be surprised.
* If it flatters the model, try a mini dress.
* A vintage crocheted top can be very engaging, or maybe it’s long enough as a mini dress.
* Bustier and ruffled panties with artificial pearl items incorporated into the model’s hair.
* Faux fur coat with some tasteful jewelry pieces should get the turgid imagination running again. Works best with classic-style poses.
* Don’t forget the enduring power of black or red vinyl. It works for Elvira.
* Just a tube dress of form fitting stretch lycra with high heels.
* Try borrowing a roll “caution”, “fragile” or “do not cross” tape. Get the picture?
* Holiday or Christmas lights can be more fun than anyone should be allowed to have. I like grids of these lights over the strings of lights. Just be sure your model is not wet and away from water or liquids.
Uniforms and Outfits
A popular choice in exotic modeling circles can be uniforms indicating a particular profession or duty oriented job. How about some military gear combined with uniforms and camouflage? Maybe you know someone in one of these professions that will nicely lend you their uniform over some free weekend:
* Firefighting gear and clothes
* Police
* Nurses
* Maid
* Postal delivery services like UPS USPS or FedEx
* Construction work
* Cowboy or western wear
* Lifeguards
* Secretaries
…or wherever else your imagination may guide you.
A Word About Props
The most important thing to say about props is to take it easy. “More is not better” applies here. They will add interest and variety to your shoots, but use them to emphasize and focus on your model. Choose them carefully to support the concept of your shoot. Also included in the subject of props is environments, indoors or out. In that case, clutter is not so common, and the elements of the outdoors or a room interior are more likely to be integrated with the room’s purpose, like a recreation room, library, kitchen, or a bathroom!
Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
* Sporting equipment
* Automotive accessories
* Candles
* Playing cards
* Unusual bottles
* Simple stool spray-painted black
* Claw foot bathtub
* Toys for children
If you somehow don’t already have enough idea fodder for that creative canon lens don’t forget to browse Ebay or online thrift stores for some other vintage ideas. Also look around Victoria’s Secret or Frederick’s of Hollywood if you’re still hungry for new concepts.
About the Author
Tanya’s passion for great coffee is only second to writing, learning, and sharing. Visit http://bunncoffeemakersforless.com/ to find out which Bunn Home Coffee Maker most suits her fancy.
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