Equipment

Camera

Depending on time, availability, and skill level, there are different camera options for model photography. Today’s smartphone cameras have increasingly improved in camera quality and can be effectively used in model photography. Where possible, however, it is recommended to use a DSLR camera as the manual mode settings will produce a superior result. Book your camera using the Loans Portal.

Canon DSLR Camera Kit

This guide will focus on using a DSLR Camera, however the same principles apply if you are using a smartphone camera.

Camera Lens

When using a DSLR camera, a lens will need to be attached to the camera in order to take a photograph. Lenses come in different sizes depending on their application.

For model photography, it is recommended to use a prime lens (for example 18-55mm lens) to obtain the best all-round results.

Below is a summary table of camera lenses available with DSLR camera kits.

Lens Name	Lens Focal Length	F-Stop Maximum	Application
Wide Angle	10-18mm	F4.5-5.6	Landscape and interior photography
Prime	18-55mm	F3.5-5.6	Recommended for model photography and general photography
Zoom	55-250mm	F4.5-5.6	Detailed zoom of objects
Macro	100mm	F2.8	Extreme close detailed zoom of objects

Tripod

A tripod assists in stabilising a camera. It is recommended to use a tripod where possible to stabilise your camera when shooting studio/indoor model photography. This is due to the indoor light levels and the ability to re-adjust your camera settings without constantly repositioning your camera.

Manfrotto O55 Tripod

Further information about ABP Tripods can be found here.

Lighting

Artificial lighting is a critical element of studio/indoor model photography. To get the best results, it is recommended to switch off any room lighting in the space you are in and to use a lighting kit to illuminate your space. Further information regarding ABP Lighting can be found here.

Aputure LED portable studio lights

When setting up your lighting kit, your aim is to reduce shadows cast upon your model while clearing showing your design. A common technique here is to utilise 2-point or 3-point lighting to illuminate your model.

A 2-Point lighting setup used to illuminate the model

It is recommended to:

• Place lights opposite each other - to avoid casting shadows over your model.

• Soften shadows using light position and diffusion (this can be done through adjusting the position of the light, brightness of the light and/or diffusing the light source using a translucent cover).

• Not use the camera flash - instead adjust your camera settings and lighting positions to get the best results.

Background

When positioning your model, it is important that your background doesn’t detract from your design. A commonly used background setup is called a ‘sweep’, where a piece of flexible material (including paper or cloth) is hung to remove corners and blemishes from a photograph. The sweep provides a gentle curve up to a vertical surface which is invisible in a photograph; perfect for showcasing your design.

Photography 'Sweep' backdrop - Note the curve of the material down to the floor

A sweep can be simply set up using a vertical surface and a piece of paper. It is recommended to use the MSD photo studio spaces where possible, which contain a sweep and lighting setup. More information regarding the ABP Photo Studios is available here.