My First Male Fashion Model And Surfer Photoshoot
October 20, 2003
The following images were shot during my first ever male fashion model photoshoot at the Kapiolani Park in Waikiki, Hawaii. The surfing theme was shot just adjacent to the park on Queen’s Beach which is just East of Waikiki Beach.
The year these photos were taken was 2003 but I am writing this post in 2009 because I am going through my archived CDs which have been accumulating in storage during the past few years.
The model is not really a model, just a friend. In the earliest days of my model photography I often asked friends and non-model strangers for photoshoots.
The use of phallic symbols is not exactly a trademark of my photography but the surfboard did provide a dynamic an interesting visual element. Nevertheless this being one of my first modeling photos ever, I was quite pleased with the results.
Surfer – male model with phallic surfboard photoshoot concept
The color red adds a nice pop to the photo and red being the color opposite of blue provides a pleasing color palette.
Alpha male model with strong chiseled jaw
This is where the experimentation started with different angles and compositions. The dynamic and dramatic always interested me so strength and diagonal lines are a often incorporated into my photos.
Even more diagonal lines, and a great eye contact.
Full body male modeling photos with surfboard
Not the greatest background courtesy of the row of hotels on Waikiki Beach but at least the phallic symbol is unmistakable.
Different pose, little more dynamic.
Surfer photos with model wearing sunglasses
The photoshoot took place right after sunrise which does not last long (neither do sunsets) at the altitude of Hawaii.
Going wide angle and maximizing perspective is a great way to introduce drama and dynamic sporty mood via diagonal lines. A circular polarizer nicely darkened the sky!
Bold suggestive upward perspective for strong visual effect
The provocative angle of the model’s torso works with the tall palm trees; lines, lines, lines! Once again notice the sky darkening effects of the circular polarizer.
Telling the story with wide angle lens
Wide angle lens helps out with including as much of the location as possible.Yes the phallic symbol is back, consistency is key!
Abercrombie & Fitch style male model portrait photography
As the sun went up and the day got hotter we moved into a hula dance and concert performance area at the Kapiolani Park so we could use open shade for portrait photos. I really enjoy looking at this photo as well purely for the fact that it represents one of my first male model portrait. I remember thinking I might just have the eye for photography.
Not sure if consciously or unconsciously but the theme is Abercrombie & Fitch inspired.
Another variation of the profile shot accentuating the masculine features of the model in the form of the strong jaw line.
Classic head on portrait which work great if the model has a symmetric face; this gentleman does. If the photo was black and white the Abercrombie & Fitch influence would be more apparent.
This location not only had plenty of sunlight but excellent areas for seamless studio-like backgrounds. Just put them slightly out of focus with a wide enough aperture and they provide not too busy complimentary backdrops.
The floor of the performance are was beige colored therefore reflecting back soft warm tinted sunlight into the face of the model. The large floor area also provided nice big catchlight (the highlight or sparkle in the eyes).
Varying camera angles often create interesting backgrounds
Getting a bit creative with angles and composition here. Placing the dome of the performance area in the background added not only interesting geometrical shapes to the photo but a not too bright backlight which is always a nice visual element.
Light and shadow play during male model photography
I remember I used to be into shadow patters a lot; using them can be a risque business since those shadows and highlights render differently on photos than as they are seen by the human eye. More specifically you can end up with real dark areas that even Photoshop cannot fix or blown out highlights which make the photo useless unless the theme is a nuclear bomb exploding.
Now we are looking at real old school model photography, shadow patterns coupled with camera tilt. It is dynamic alright … I have to laugh when I see these photos (from me or other photographers), they give me the impression that someone is trying too hard.
It’s been a lot of fun though surfing down memory lane … much more photos in my related articles section or via the upper navigational bar.
Nice photography.