About the Cover Shot

Photography is about control. The ability of a photographer to control light is what separates ok images from amazing images. The way we like to shoot here at the Hooters Calendar is to subtract as much ambient light as possible and then add in reflected or artificial light. We strive to always have even lighting on the model. Take the cover image for example (And a huge thanks to the beautiful Amanda from Boca Raton Hooters (www.hootersflorida.com) for capturing this interesting, wonderful cover photo).

The photographer used a black flag placed over head to subtract the light coming in, and then added 4 sources. This idea of subtracting light is very important and should be applied in every kind of photo shoot. Notice the #'s 1-4 on the above sketch. Light source #1 was a large rectangle panel set to the white side (not the silver side) and placed close to Amanda. 3 things were going on here... (1) by using the white side, a soft natural light illuminated her (2) by placing it close there was a large catch light in her eyes and (3) because of the size and placement the panel it blocked some unwanted ambient light coming in from that side. Light source #2 was a smaller circle reflector set to the silver side and used mainly to fill in the shadows on Amanda's face and upper body. With out this reflector the shadows on the face would of been more dark and less pleasing. The photographer was able to use the silver side here because the ambient light on that wall was so faint. If the light was brighter, the white side would have been used. Light source #3 is key. Although you can't really see it in her eyes like you can #1 and #2, the #3 circle reflector was set parallel to the ground directly in front of her and essential to bring color to her eyes. Finally, light source #4 was a Canon Speedlite flash that was set about 15 feet behind Amanda and used to add texture and dimension to the background as well as Amanda.

Hopefully now you understand the details and effort that goes into making an image. Our favorite quote here at Hooters Calendar is one by Ansel Adams, "You don't take a photograph, you make it."

For questions regarding photography please email us at photography@hooterscalendar.com.