My girlfriend and a female acquainance to model nude together: how to?

Question

OK, this isn't a put-on or a joke, but a serious inquiry. My g/f agreed to model nude with another female. No sex will be involved. I just ran some creative ideas by both of them and they both agreed to it. The theme is sort a sensual uninhibited look at being languid and relaxed on a warm sunny day in a 'boudoir.' Sexy but no porn. I figure if we all feel comfortable and must be ourselves, it'll work out fine. Any other tips or suggestions on getting everyone comfortable when it comes down to shoot the sessions? No wisecracks please.

Answer 1

Have her bring some of her favorite CDs- music is good while you're busy moving lights or furniture. Have some snacks around; maybe order take-out at the halfway point, since everyone gets hungry.

If you've already run ideas past them and they've signed on then you're probably past the uncomfortable uncertainty phase that would torpedo the shoot before you start.

Write down the specific shots you want to get and refer back to your list- when the photographer is organized, it's easier for subjects to relax.

Most of all have fun with it- no doubt you'll completely forget something important like a lens, soft-focus filter or sync cord, but don't let it derail your creativity :)

There are some good books out there, if the reading approach is your thing. I recommend "The manual of nude photography" by Jon Gray & Michael Bussell for nuts & bolts tips on lighting & composition, and J. Frederick Smith's "Photographing Sensuality" which is less of a how-to book and more of a glimpse inside the mind of a master, how he approaches shoots from concept to realization.

Answer 2

So far, the things that have worked for me are offering to have someone else present if she would be more secure, playing music she enjoys (which someone already mentioned), letting her view the photos immediately after, and letting her tell me when it's ok to press the shutter (normally I also snap a lot of in between shots)

--And it doesn't hurt to let them know how beautiful they look (and show them if you're shooting digital.)